If you’re planning to run the London Marathon in 2027, you might think that the first bit of prep you’ll do is finding a marathon training plan. In fact, the actual first thing you need to do is even easier: book your hotel. The earlier you lock it in, the smoother your race weekend will feel – and it’s one less thing on the pre-race to-do list.

You won’t be the only one booking now, either. “People book the moment they commit,” says Yro Kapli, Head of Operations (London) at The Resident. In practical terms, that means rooms start disappearing 10-12 months out, as soon as the race date is announced. There’s another surge in January, when training plans get serious and the reality of race day kicks in.

“By six to eight weeks before the race, as many as 70-85% of rooms are already gone,” she says. “Leave it until the final month, and you’re competing for the last 5-15%. If you want peace of mind that you’ll secure a room close to the start line, it’s best to plan in advance.”

When should I book my hotel?

Ideally, book as soon as you have secured your spot. For 2027 runners, that means locking something down in 2026 if you can. “Even if plans change, cancellable room rates are your friend,” says Kapli.

What if I’m more of a last-minute gal?

All is not lost. There are still central options even close to race day, you just need to move fast and be flexible. “Late bookings often come from injury substitutions, spontaneous supporters or runners deciding to stay overnight rather than limp home,” she explains.

Where should I stay for the London Marathon Double?

It depends what you want from your marathon weekend, Kapli tells us. She shares her picks:

For the finish line, The Resident Victoria is hard to beat. Just a short walk from Buckingham Palace and The Mall, you can stagger back to your room within minutes of crossing the line. Despite the proximity, the surrounding streets are relatively tranquil which is ideal for post-race recovery. In-room mini kitchens also make carb-loading and refuelling refreshingly easy.

For atmosphere, The Resident Covent Garden puts you in the thick of it. This option has a West End buzz, plenty of post-race restaurants and a steady stream of medal-wearing runners.
Many nearby venues even offer perks for finishers, so it’s a great place to soak up that shared sense of achievement.

For celebrations, The Resident Soho is a good option if you’re planning to turn marathon day into marathon weekend. Soho’s restaurants, cocktail bars and nightlife make it ideal for runners who prefer recovery with a side of revelry.

What should I be looking for in a marathon hotel?

Prioritise location over price if you can; your future, sore-legged self will thank you. “Look for hotels that understand marathon logistics (road closures, early breakfasts, late checkouts),” Kapli suggests. “If you’re booking late, check smaller hotels as well as bigger chains,” she continues. Most of all, remember: a good hotel won’t just give you a bed. It can shape your entire race weekend, from stress-free logistics to that all-important post-finish shower.