For the general field (that’s us, not the pros), the average finish time in recent years hovers around 4 hours and 45 minutes. Yes, you read that right—nearly five hours of pounding pavement through London’s iconic streets.
But here’s the thing: that number is a bit of a trickster. It includes everyone from first-timers to seasoned club runners. Think of it as a blurry average—like saying the average person has one leg and one wing.
Why So Slow? (And Why That’s Cool)
Ever tried running 26.2 miles? It’s a bonkers distance. The London Marathon is famous for its festival vibe, not just speed. People stop for selfies with Big Ben, high-five strangers in gorilla suits, or grab a jelly baby from a kid on the curb.
Compare it to a pop concert: the headliner (the elite runner) finishes in two hours, but the crowd is there for the whole show. That 4:45 average? It’s the sweet spot of effort, fun, and a bit of suffering.
