Are you still hoping to run the London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026, even though public entries and many charity places are already sold out?
You’re not alone. With demand higher than ever, outdated guides are circulating online and causing confusion. This updated 2026 guide confirms the race date, explains the major route change, details realistic last-chance charity options, and includes an accelerated training plan for runners with limited time left.
If you’re feeling unsure about what to do next whether to join a waitlist, start training, or plan ahead for 2027 this article gives you clear, calm answers.
When Is the London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026?
The London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026 will take place on:
Sunday 12 April 2026
This is the confirmed race date.
What Time Does It Start?
The event operates on staggered wave starts throughout the morning. While individual wave times are issued closer to race day, most runners can expect:
- Early morning arrival requirements
- Wave starts between approximately 9:00am and late morning
- Assigned start times based on predicted finishing time
Because the race now starts on Whitehall, road closures in Westminster begin early. Planning your journey well in advance will reduce stress on the day.
An April race also means winter training conditions. Many runners will have completed long runs in January and February, so if you’re joining late via a charity waitlist, preparation time is tighter than usual.
What Is Different About the LLHM 2026 Route?
One of the biggest changes for 2026 is the revised route direction.
Where Does the Race Start and Finish?
For 2026:
- Start Line: Whitehall (near Downing Street)
- Finish Line: Close to Trafalgar Square
This marks a significant shift in race flow.
Is It True the Route Is “Reversed”?
In practical terms, yes.
The 2026 course follows the iconic central London layout in reverse compared to previous editions. Runners now begin near government landmarks before heading through Westminster and into the City, finishing near Trafalgar Square.
This affects pacing strategy. You’ll encounter major sights earlier in the race, which can feel exciting but may tempt you to go out too fast.
Which Landmarks Will You See Along the Way?
The event lives up to its name.
Runners pass some of the capital’s most recognisable sites, including:
- Big Ben
- St Paul’s Cathedral
- Tower of London
- Trafalgar Square
Unlike the London Marathon, which stretches far beyond central London, this half marathon keeps runners immersed in historic streets from start to finish.
What Are the Quirky Hidden Landmarks?
Beyond the obvious icons, LLHM highlights lesser-known stories:
You may pass the birthplace of the Bowler Hat, historic guild halls, and even areas built over Roman remains. The race is designed as a storytelling experience, with themed cheer stations celebrating London’s history.
That distinctive focus is part of why the London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026 remains so popular.
Can You Still Get a Charity Place for London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026?
Public ballot places are closed.
Official charity registration closed at 12:00 noon on Wednesday 11 February 2026.
However, a limited number of opportunities may still arise through waitlists.
What Is the Official “Last Chance Listing”?
The organisers of London Landmarks Half Marathon maintain a “Last Chance Listing” page.
This includes charities that:
- Have recently had places returned
- Still hold small allocations
- Operate active cancellation lists
Places here are rare and often reallocated quickly. Checking regularly is essential.
Which Major Charities Are Operating Waiting Lists?
Several London-based charities are maintaining interest lists for 2026 cancellations:
- Tommy’s – Operating a reallocation waitlist as event owners.
- Cancer Research UK – Sold out but monitoring cancellations.
- NSPCC – Accepting interest registrations for replacement runners.
- The Lily Foundation – Requesting email registrations for 2026 cancellations.
- Ronald McDonald House Charities UK – Running a waitlist for returned places.
Waiting lists operate on availability. You may receive short notice if offered a place, and fundraising targets still apply.
Average fundraising expectations remain between £350–£500, depending on the organisation.
What Are the Key 2026 Facts at a Glance?
| Feature | Details for 2026 |
| Date | Sunday 12 April 2026 |
| Start Line | Whitehall (near Downing Street) |
| Finish Line | Trafalgar Square |
| Charity Deadline | 12:00 noon, Wednesday 11 February 2026 |
| Average Fundraising | £350–£500 depending on the charity |
These details are confirmed for the 2026 event.
How Should You Train With Only 8 Weeks Left?
Ideally, a 12-week training plan would have begun in mid-January. If you are starting now with around eight weeks to go, an accelerated but sensible approach is required.
Weeks 1–2: Building a Base
Run three times per week at a conversational pace.
Focus on easy miles. You should be able to speak comfortably while running. This phase builds aerobic capacity and reduces injury risk.
Weeks 3–5: Adding Strength and Speed
Introduce one structured session per week.
A typical week could include:
- Tuesday: 35-minute easy run
- Thursday: Hill or interval session (for example, 5 × 70-second hill efforts with jog-back recovery)
- Sunday: Long run building from 6 to 9 miles
Hill training strengthens your legs even if the course is relatively flat.
Weeks 6–7: Peak Endurance
Complete one long run of 10–11 miles at an easy pace.
Include a mid-week “Fartlek” session, alternating faster bursts with recovery running. This mimics the pace variation you may experience while navigating crowded landmark sections.
Week 8: Taper Properly
Reduce mileage by around 50%.
Two short, 20-minute easy runs are sufficient. Prioritise sleep and hydration.
On race day, resist the temptation to sprint early when passing Big Ben. Save energy for the final stretch near Trafalgar Square.
What Happens If You Missed 2026 Completely?
Interest in next year’s race is already growing.
Pre-registration for the 2027 event is open on the official site. Searches for “LLHM 2027 ballot” and related phrases are increasing.
If you missed 2026, pre-registering early:
- Ensures ballot notifications
- Reduces last-minute stress
- Improves planning time
Given how quickly the London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026 sold out, early preparation for 2027 is a sensible move.
Is London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026 Still Worth It?
Yes. if you can secure a place.
The reverse route creates a fresh experience, even for returning runners. The central-London focus, closed roads, and storytelling atmosphere make it distinct from many UK half marathons.
For many participants, it is not just a race but a guided journey through the capital’s history.
What Unique 2026 Logistics Should Runners Know Before Race Day?
The London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026 introduces several small but important logistical details that many guides have overlooked.
A New Finish Line Experience Near Trafalgar Square
For 2026, the race finishes near Trafalgar Square, close to Downing Street and the Whitehall area.
This creates a more iconic and visually striking finish environment compared to previous editions. Expect:
- A central London backdrop
- Dense spectator crowds
- A dramatic final stretch
Because the finish area sits in one of London’s busiest zones, meeting points should be agreed in advance. Mobile networks can become congested immediately after finishing.
What Is the Realistic Fundraising Target for 2026?
While fundraising requirements vary slightly between charities, most places for the London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026 require a minimum sponsorship commitment of around £350.
Some larger charities may set targets closer to £400–£500, but £350 is the most common baseline figure.
If you secure a late charity place through a waiting list, be prepared to begin fundraising immediately to meet expectations before race day.
What Is the 2026 iTAB Medal Feature?
A new feature many runners appreciate in 2026 is medal compatibility with an engraved iTAB plate.
The official finisher medal is designed to fit a custom iTAB insert displaying:
- Your name
- Your race time
This allows runners to personalise their medal professionally rather than writing details on the ribbon or back of the medal.
For many participants, this small detail turns the medal into a lasting keepsake especially with the new Trafalgar Square finish backdrop marking the achievement.
When Were the London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026 Ballot Results Released?
The London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026 ballot results were sent directly to applicants by email after the ballot closed.
Successful runners received:
- A confirmation email
- Payment instructions
- A deadline to secure their place
Unsuccessful applicants were also notified.
If you entered the ballot and haven’t seen a result, check your spam folder and the email address used during registration. Ballot outcomes are not published publicly.
Are London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026 Tickets Still Available?
If you’re searching for London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026 tickets, here’s the current situation in brief.
Public ballot tickets for the 2026 race are now sold out. The ballot closed months ago, and successful applicants were notified directly by email.
Can You Still Buy a Ticket?
Unlike concerts or football matches, LLHM tickets are not resold through general ticket platforms. Entry is only available through:
- A successful public ballot place
- An official charity place
- A reallocated place via an approved waiting list
There is no authorised resale marketplace, and buying entries from unofficial sources is not permitted under race rules.
Race Day Summary
The London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026 is confirmed for Sunday 12 April 2026, starting on Whitehall and finishing near Trafalgar Square.
While official entries and many charity places are closed, limited opportunities remain via waitlists and the Last Chance Listing. Acting promptly and calmly gives you the best chance.
If 2026 proves out of reach, planning ahead for 2027 may be your smartest move.
FAQs About London Landmarks Half Marathon 2026
Can I transfer my LLHM 2026 entry to someone else?
Transfers are generally not permitted unless explicitly allowed by organisers. Always confirm official terms before assuming a place can be reassigned.
What happens if I fail to reach my fundraising minimum?
Some charities may ask you to cover the shortfall, while others may cancel the place before the deadline. Clarify expectations early.
Is the London Landmarks Half Marathon beginner-friendly?
Yes. With structured preparation, many first-time half marathon runners complete the course successfully.
How crowded is the Whitehall start area?
It can be busy due to wave starts and security checks. Arriving early reduces pressure.
Are there strict cut-off times?
Most half marathons operate a time limit. Confirm official guidance before race day.
Will spectators have good viewing access?
Yes, central London offers multiple viewing points, but the finish area near Trafalgar Square becomes crowded.
Is pre-registration for 2027 worth doing now?
Given current demand trends, registering early for updates is strongly recommended.
