Perfectly positioned homes along the London Marathon route

From Blackheath to Westminster, marathon runners pass through some of the best central London locations. Instead, you could put your feet up and call them home.

Words / Pippa Jackson
Main image / Vanbrugh Terrace, Blackheath
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The 26.2 mile marathon route traverses London passing iconic landmarks and super desirable locations. Starting at Greenwich Park in the east and finishing on The Mall in the West End, homes along the route often have river views or close proximity to green open spaces.

While you’re cheering on those courageous London marathon runners, you could also get a feel for locations along the route. Take advantage of the streets being closed, and get a feel for a new place to call home.

We’re seeing rising supply of London properties of late. According to Knight Frank Research, “The number of sales instructions in London was 17% above the five-year average in the first quarter of 2024.” Looking at locations along the London Marathon route specifically, Woolwich and Charlton (in the opening miles) have seen price inflation of 57% and above in the past decade. Deptford (mile 8) has seen a 44% increase.

“UK house price growth has been concentrated in more affordable areas of the country over the last decade and London is no exception. It means eastern areas have seen a larger increase in house prices as demand fans out around the capital and drives activity in formerly less popular areas” said Tom Bill, head of UK residential research at Knight Frank.

Here are five of the best homes along the London marathon route.

Blackheath

Known for its village-like feel, Blackheath is a pretty part of South East London that neighbours Greenwich. You’ll often see runners making the most of Greenwich Park, the starting point of the London Marathon.

Six/seven bedroom house in Vanbrugh Terrace, Blackheath

This elegant, almost majestic Victorian home - pictured above and below - is on the coveted Vanbrugh Terrace. The impressive family home has spacious rooms as well as a generous corner plot. There are beautifully preserved period features coupled with welcome contemporary conveniences like underfloor heating and integrated technology for security, lighting, heating and sound. Run, don’t walk, to view this remarkable property. Guide price: £6,250,000

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Surrey Quays

Nine miles into the marathon, the Docklands area is a wonderful mix of old and new. It has a rich maritime and industrial history, yet it’s now home to impressive modern developments. There’s a buzzing café culture and riverside restaurants. Plus, it benefits from overground and underground transport links. 

Four/five bedroom house, Marine Wharf

Marine Wharf is an esteemed development with exclusive resident benefits such as 24 hour concierge, secure parking and leisure facilities. Split across three levels, this immaculate contemporary home offers versatile living space. The entertaining area, comprising a kitchen, dining area and reception room, flows seamlessly out into the expansive private garden. Guide price: £1,050,000

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Bermondsey

This area on the south bank of the Thames is quite the cultural hub. With Shakespeare’s Globe, Tate Modern and the Fashion and Textile Museum, to name but a few, there’s much to explore. Food is high on the agenda, too, with the famous Borough Market and eclectic eateries serving everything from pie and mash to tapas and pho. It’s also mile 12 on the runner’s route.

One bedroom flat, Duchess Walk

This sleek and stylish apartment in the prime One Tower Bridge development is the epitome of luxury city living. The spacious living area benefits from an abundance of natural light and leads out to a private balcony. An onsite spa, pool, gym and fitness room adds to the convenient, luxe lifestyle. Guide price: £730,000

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Limehouse

Further along, on the north side of the River Thames, Limehouse marks mile 14 and 21 on the marathon route. It’s ideal for those who love to be near water as it’s dominated by the river as well as two canals. It’s a relatively quiet area that’s extremely well connected.

Three/four bedroom house, Limehouse

Renovated to exceptionally high standards, this striking Georgian townhouse has a sense of grandeur. There’s a great flow between the open living spaces, and the rear terrace has lovely views over the home’s private garden and across to the park. Stylish design considerations include an eye-catching oak and steel staircase, a ‘1909’ chef’s kitchen and Philippe Starck basins in the en suite. Guide price: £2,850,000

Whitehall

Nearing the finish line in Westminster, this central London location is steeped in history and the country’s political hub. It’s the home of government buildings, including the Cabinet Office and Downing Street, as well as the Cenotaph. From here, it’s an easy walk into the West End or over the river to the South Bank.

Three bedroom flat, Whitehall

This home in Whitehall Court, with river views and a wealth of history, presents an exciting refurbishment opportunity. Make this three bedroom apartment your own, with approval to create an open plan kitchen/living space, dining room and two spacious bedrooms with dressing rooms and walk-in wardrobes as well as two bathrooms. Guide price: £4,850,000

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