London Marathon 2009

Blood, sweaty trainers and tears: this year's London Marathon takes place on Sunday April 26 2009.

This spectacular annual event came about because of a pub conversation and the late Chris Brasher, an athlete and sports journalist.

After running the New York City Marathon, Brasher wondered if London could host such a race: "We have the course...but do we have the heart and hospitality to welcome the world?" After 28 years we all have the answer.

The London Marathon is one of our most beloved sporting events and anticipated across the globe. The winning combination of stunning city backdrop and human drama draws millions of spectators to the television and the capital every year.

The event has been part of the World Marathon Majors, a series of races which includes the world's five biggest city marathons - Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago and New York City - since 2006.

If you're heading to the capital for the marathon, take advantage of our Best Price Guarantee on airport hotels or make a weekend of it and book a London Theatre Break including a night in a central London hotel and tickets to a West End show.

Don't forget, this year's London Marathon is on Sunday April 26 and the 2010 marathon ballot opens 9am Monday April 27.