Menu
Best Campsite for the London Marathon
The London Marathon is arguably one of the best marathons in the world.
How We Found the Best Campsite for the London Marathon
Experts Interviewed
Sites Visited
Real Users Interviewed
Best Campsite for the London Marathon
The London Marathon is one of the greatest Marathons in the world. In fact, its one of my favourites – just for the atmosphere and support if nothing else. I covered it all on my running blog if you are interested.
So you are one of the lucky ones to get into the London Marathon, I am not jealous at all. I was fortune enough to run this amazing route in 2015, remember enjoy the day. But as this is one of the busiest weekends in London (only remembrance weekend is busier) the hotel prices sky rocket.
If you haven’t already booked your are either going to struggle to get a decent price hotel anywhere near the start or tube to the start line. What other alternative are there. Airbnb – same as hotels either expensive or fully booked.
While London might be one of the busiest cities in the world and what some people would call a concrete jungle, there are in fact several campsites within London.
With the marathon in April the weather should be warm enough for camping plus it will cost you a lot less.
So what are you options for camping in London.
There are only a handful of campsites within London, so there isn’t a huge choice to pick from – but remember you are staying here to run a marathon not have a holiday.
Preferred Choice
Abbey Wood Caravan and Motorhome Club Site
A great campsite with easy access to the start line
Why we chose it
A great campsite within easy reach of the start line and that’s key I had a panic as no ubers would pick me up on the morning of the race and where I was staying was closed for the race later so very few buses. You don’t want stress before you do the run.
If like me you are taking the family to support you, then this site has a great kids play area. Again this site accepts caravans so if you don’t fancy camping but going in the caravan then this site is also ideal for you.
Non members are welcome so you don’t need to be a caravan club member.
For more information please contact the website or telephone 0208 311 7708.
Good Choice
Crystal Palace Caravan and Motorhome Club Site
Anoither great campsite within easy distance of the start line
Why we chose it
While this is a caravan club site it does take tents as well and has the basic features you would expect from a campsite and is open all year. This site also accepts caravans so if you own a caravan and don’t fancy camping in April then you can always take the caravan.
Getting to the start line:
As you can see from the information below, its pretty simple – but remember on the day of the race there is a lot disruption with buses and tubes and I would recommend checking with TFL.
Last Resort
Why we chose it
This one would be as a last resort, while the campsite is nice it will take around 1 and half hours to get to the start line. That to me is at the extreme distance as you want a relaxing morning before the run. This is a tent only site.
Campsites we don’t recommend you stay at:
Lee Valley Campsite Sewardstone
This is nearly two hours on a Sunday morning to get to start line and that is too much travelling before and after the race.
Willows Rustic Camping and Caravanning – again this is quite difficult to get to the start line
We are not saying the campsites are a bad campsite (stayed at Lee Valley and loved it), there are just not convenient enough to get you to the start line on time.
Chertsey Camping and Caravanning Club
While this is a lovely campsite in the South west of London, I wouldn’t recommend the site. At peak time its around 2 hours to get from the campsite to the start line so this will be even longer on a Sunday morning, adding to the stress of the morning.
Just remember enjoy the run, the memories will live with me forever – it’s an amazing run, it’s not a PB course as too many runners slow you down for the first few miles, just enjoy the crowds and the day, no other marathon I have done ever lives up to the day.
As you can see, camping might be a good option if the hotels are out of your price range. If you have a caravan, then the weather won’t be an issue.
I used to running and camping – I do ultra marathons now, so it can be done.
Table of Contents
Latest Articles
How To Make Diy Fire Starters For Camping
Are you tired of relying on store-bought fire starters for your camping trips? This article will present the benefits of creating your own DIY fire ...
Read More →
Guide To Foraging While Camping
Are you an outdoor enthusiast seeking to elevate your camping experience? Foraging during your camping trips can establish a profound connection with nature and bring ...
Read More →
Guide To Exploring Britains Coastal Pathways
Are you looking for a unique adventure that combines stunning landscapes, history, and physical activity? Explore Britain’s coastal paths with our comprehensive guide designed to ...
Read More →
Tips For Backpacking In The UK’s National Parks
Explore the stunning landscapes of the UK’s National Parks through backpacking. When planning your route and ensuring your safety while enjoying the experience, this article ...
Read More →
How To Use A Compass And Map For Camping
Navigating the great outdoors can be both challenging and rewarding for you. Having a good understanding of how to efficiently use a compass and map ...
Read More →
Camping And Hiking In The Brecon Beacons
Explore the stunning beauty of the Brecon Beacons through its well-loved hiking trails and camping locations. With its varied topography and challenging landscapes, this natural ...
Read More →
