Greenwich Braces for Extensive Road Closures Ahead of TCS London Marathon

Greenwich is set for significant traffic disruption this Sunday, April 26, as the borough hosts a crucial section of the TCS London Marathon route. Detailed road closure plans, effective from early morning, will impact local residents and businesses.

The Details

The 46th annual TCS London Marathon will see over 50,000 participants traverse the 26.2-mile course, starting in Blackheath and Greenwich Park. To ensure participant and spectator safety, numerous roads in Greenwich will be closed from 07:00 to 16:00 on Sunday, April 26, 2026. Some key roads, such as Charlton Way and Shooters Hill Road, will close even earlier, from 4am.

Vehicles parked along the marathon route face removal from 04:00 on Sunday, April 26. Residents are strongly advised to move their vehicles off the route by Saturday evening, April 25, to avoid relocation. A vehicle crossing point on Creek Road will be open before 08:40, with an anticipated reopening at 15:10.

Specific closures include St Johns Park, Charlton Park Road, Old Dover Road, Little Heath, Charlton Park Lane, Artillery Place, and John Wilson Street, all closing from 7am until 2:30pm. Woolwich Church Street/Woolwich Road will be closed from 7am to 3pm, and Trafalgar Road/Creek Road from 7am to 4pm. Greenwich town centre will also be closed to traffic from 06:00 to 16:00, though local bus services will continue on Romney Road, Nelson Road, and Greenwich High Road.

Community Impact

The marathon is expected to draw approximately 750,000 spectators, creating an electric atmosphere but also significant congestion. Local businesses along the route may experience reduced vehicle access, while foot traffic is likely to surge. Residents are encouraged to support the event but remain mindful of the extensive closures. Public transport, particularly the DLR and Overground, is expected to be very busy.

Planning Your Visit

For those travelling to Greenwich, the nearest TfL station is Greenwich Station, accessible via National Rail and DLR. For spectators aiming to watch near the Cutty Sark (Mile 6), Cutty Sark DLR station is an option, but it will be entrance-only on race day and extremely busy, with queues up to 90 minutes expected.

Consider walking from alternative stations like Deptford, Island Gardens, or Maze Hill to avoid the densest crowds. Runners can enjoy free travel until 8pm on London Underground, Overground, Elizabeth Line, DLR, and local buses by displaying their race bib.

Source Verification

This report is based on data from London Marathon Events and other official transport and news sources.

Source Link: https://www.londonmarathonevents.co.uk/london-marathon/road-closures

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