It’s almost over. You stagger towards the finish line, barely able to stand, heart pounding, the feeling of imminent vomit in your mouth from the exertion.
Congratulations! You finished the London Marathon… of pubs.
Anyone who didn’t get a place for this Sunday’s race can comfort themselves with the knowledge there is plenty of space still for the alternative event.
Self-professed ‘beer experts’ at There’s A Beer For That have worked out where you can stop for a drink for every two miles the runners race (well, 26 pubs would just be unmanageable) and support those taking part.
Their guide to pubs along the route is invaluable for spectators who don’t fancy spending the whole day standing in the road after they’ve seen their friend/colleague/lover/woman in a large dinosaur costume run past.
Or for anyone who likes a sense of achievement along with their pint.
Here are some of the highlights (drink responsibly, please).
Mile 1: The Royal Standard Pub
Address: 44 Vanbrugh Park, London SE3 7JQ.
This ‘elegant yet cosy’ pub, near the start in Greenwich and Blackheath, east London, serves food too and has a friendly atmosphere.
Mile 3: The Dial Arch
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Address: The Dial Arch Buildings, Major Draper Street, Royal Arsenal, Woolwich, London SE18 6GH
For a warm welcome and a fantastic drinks range including an extensive selection of cask ales, the beer garden at The Dial Arch is the perfect spot to cheer on your runner as they pass by.
Mile 5: The White Horse Pub and B&B
Address: 704 Woolwich Rd, London SE7 8LQ
The White Horse Charlton has all the usual favourites at quality prices, the beer experts said – and it’s along the route as it loops back towards Greenwich before heading towards central.
Mile 7: The Cutty Sark
Address: 4 – 6 Ballast Quay, Greenwich SE10 9PD
Spread over three floors with stunning views of Canary Wharf and the O2, The Cutty Sark is a beautiful riverside pub serving great local beers.
Mile 11: The Mayflower
Address: 117 Rotherhithe St, London SE16 4NF
The oldest pub on the Thames, it offers a great view of the of the river – and you can even sit above the river on a jetty outside.
Plenty of atmosphere even when it’s not race day.
Mile 12: The Raven
Address: 218 Tower Bridge Rd, London SE1 2UP
The Bridge House is located close to Tower Bridge, specialising in craft beers. If it’s cold outside, keep warm by the fire. If the weather is warm you can enjoy a drink outside and support the efforts of your runner half-way through their journey.
Mile 17: George Poplar
Address: 114 Glengall Grove, London E14 3ND
For an excellent range of beers, a glassed garden area and a lovely atmosphere, this traditional East End pub near Canary Wharf is an ideal place to have something refreshing on the 17th mile.
Mile 18: The Henry Addington
Address: 22-28 Mackenzie Walk, London E14 4PH
As the competition heats up, head to the Henry Addington where you can sit outside to see your favourite runners getting closer to their last miles.
Mile 23: The Banker
Address: Cousin Lane, London EC4R 3TE
The waterside setting of this Fuller’s pub makes it irresistible in summer, with amazing views of the Thames and beyond. Cheer on your runner and sit front row whilst enjoying a cold beverage.
Mile 24: The Blackfriar
Address: 174 Queen Victoria St, London EC4V 4EG
The Nicholsons pub is reputed for its distinctive building and intriguing history, having stood since 1875. Built on the site of a Dominican friary, it includes mosaics, ornamental balconies, and a guardian black friar above the front door.
Mile 25: Walkers of Whitehall
Address: 15 Whitehall, London SW1A 2DD
This distinguished pub next to Trafalgar Square with vaulted ceilings and banquette seating is ideal to indulge in a beer as you track your runner conquering their last two miles.
Although, if you made it hear after doing all the other pubs first, then maybe a water would be advisable.
Finish Line: Buckingham Arms
Address: 62 Petty France, London SW1H 9EU
Get down here to raise a glass as your runner crosses the finish line on the Mall at the royal residence – and welcome them in for some much needed refreshment.
Cheers!
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