Pubs and Bars For The London Marathon

The Understudy is the perfect spot for London Marathon finishers - flash your medal and grab a free pint of Laine's Sonar Hazy IPA to celebrate your victory. On top of that, the South Bank venue is ideal for anyone looking for cheap eats and affordable drinks.

Enjoy a £15 meal deal Monday to Friday (from 12pm 'til 4pm) or pop by on Sundays for a satisfying meal with a drink of your choice. Whether you're after a juicy burger, fresh ramen, or Middle Eastern wraps, The Understudy has all your cravings covered in style.

The city's self-proclaimed "botanically-inspired haven" makes for an excellent stop-off point as runners make their way towards Monument. The going may be getting pretty tough as runners hit the wall, but the atmosphere couldn't be any more serene inside The Folly, which will be serving up free range roasts with all the trimmings as part of their Sunday Lunch offering.

There's nowhere better than Davy's to soak in the air of expectation as race time nears. As the runners limber up for 26.2 miles of hard toil just moments away on Greenwich Park, you'll be settling into a welcoming and characterful wine bar known for its 19th century furnishings and vintage feel. Davy's handily opens to set you up for a big day out with some brunch treats and a cheeky glass of wine or two from 9am.

Swing by this gorgeous Grade II-listed watering hole in Cutty Sark on the London Marathon route to enjoy a refreshing pint in a charming setting. Spanish Galleon offers a buzzing atmosphere and a traditional setting, with leather sofas and oil paintings hung on the wall, to sip on a classic cocktail or chomp on a juicy smash burger.

Market Halls Victoria is a vibrant food hall packed with an amazing selection of vendors doing what they do best: whipping up tasty grub. Across three floors in a bright and airy building, you'll find nine kitchens and three bars comprised of Eggslut, Whipped London (think cheesecakes with a twist), DF Tacos, Black Bear Burger and more. There's so much to choose from which is why it's the perfect haunt to stop off at come the marathon. 

The Gun might involve a slight detour from the race route, but that's more than acceptable when you consider those stunning riverside views. Open from noon on race day, runners will be snaking their way through Canary Wharf and the city as you drop in at this Grade II listed, historic gastropub for a quick pitstop. The Gun serves a delightful Sunday roast with views that look out towards the O2 Arena and the city.

Located just a stone's throw from The Mall, there's really only one place to wrap up our guide to the best bars and pubs on the London Marathon route. Head to the heart of St. James' Park once the race is run and toast a job well done (by the runners, but also by yourself) by refuelling with a bacon butty and a cocktail.