The world’s most popular marathon, and the biggest annual one-day fundraising event!
The money raised by our London Marathon fundraisers is essential to our work to improve the lives of people affected by ME, in 2024, Team Action for ME raised over £30,000!
The London Marathon first took place in 1981, more than 1.3million people have completed the course and over £1.3 billion has been raised for charity. You could be part of this amazing heritage. The route takes in many of London's best landmarks including Buckingham Palace, The Cutty Sark, Tower Bridge and Canary Wharf.
Date
Sunday 26th April 2026
Location
London, UK
How can I take part?
Self-Fund Your Own Place - Enter the Public Ballot
- The public ballot usually opens shortly after the previous year’s event and is open for around a week. The 2026 ballot should open in April 2025, you can follow @londonmarathon for updates, or go to their website
- If you are successful in getting a place through the public ballot, you can still fundraise for Action for ME.
- There is no minimum fundraising target for Public Ballot places but our fundraising team will still support you with anything you need to raise money for us.
- You must apply to the public ballot to be considered for a charity place, we will ask for proof of ballot entry when you apply.
- You can add your name to the ballot through the London Marathon website. More information here
Apply for an Action for ME Charity Place
- You can apply for a charity place between 6th May – 30th June 2026. Fill out this form if you would like to be contacted when our applications open.
- You will also need to apply for the public ballot (above) to be considered for a charity place.
- In return for a charity place you will need to raise at least £1800 and pay a £100 non-refundable registration fee. Our brilliant fundraising team are here to support you with your fundraising every step of the way.
- Our charity places are limited and always over-subscribed, so please give as much detail about your fundraising plans as you can on the application form.
What Support Will I Get?
If you are successful in getting a Charity place, or are self-funding your place, you will receive:
- An Action for ME running vest
- Dedicated support from our experienced fundraising team to help you achieve your target
- Action for ME fundraising materials
