London Marathon 2026

You can now apply to be part of Team Helen Arkell for the London Marathon in 2026!

We are delighted to have guaranteed charity places in the TCS London Marathon which takes place on Sunday 26th April 2026.

Whether you’re an experienced runner or this will be your first ever marathon, the world-famous London Marathon is an unforgettable experience unlike any other event.

Starting at Greenwich and Blackheath, the route takes runners past iconic landmarks like the Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf and Buckingham Palace, before finishing on The Mall.

You’ll be inspired by the comradery of your fellow runners, the thousands of supporters along the route, and the sense of achievement as you cross the finish line.

By taking part, you will be enabling us to help children and adults with dyslexia in urgent need of specialist support.

‘This charity means so much to me, as my son was diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of 7. He shows me daily, how to be resilient, determined and courageous whilst always being his kind, gentle self. He has inspired me to train and run the marathon this year…to help many more children in the years to come.’

As a member of the Helen Arkell London Marathon team, you’ll receive a fundraising pack, a breathable running top and the opportunity to meet (online via Zoom) with other runners in our team to share advice and tips. Our team will be there to support you on the day!

To secure your place in the 2026 London Marathon:

• Complete the registration form: we will notify you during June if you have been successful in securing a Helen Arkell place.
• Pay registration fee: £90 will be payable if we choose to offer you a place.
• Minimum sponsorship: £2,000 (excluding Gift Aid). The first £500 to be raised by 31 December 2025.

We have a limited number of places for the London Marathon, so please tell us why you want to run for Helen Arkell and what the charity means to you. Let us know how you plan to raise the £2,000 minimum sponsorship. The more detail the better!

Successful applicants will be sent details for paying the registration fee and secure their place.

Let’s do this, for dyslexia!

Please note: we are now closed to applications.

If you would like to be added to a waiting list, please email events@helenarkell.org.uk

London Marathon Public Ballot 2026

Ballot places for the 2026 London Marathon will open on Friday 25 April.

If you apply directly for a place in the public ballot you can run for Helen Arkell if you’re successful. There’s no minimum fundraising pledge, we just ask you to raise as much as you can.

Details about how to apply can be found on the London Marathon website.