The 38th London Marathon is happening this weekend and here is what you need to know.

When is it?

The Virgin Money London Marathon will be taking place on Sunday, April 22. The Queen will be officially starting this year’s race by pushing a button at exactly 10am from the grounds of Windsor Castle.

What is the route?

The route begins in Blackheath and Greenwich Park in SE London and the runners then make their way through Greenwich to the Cutty Sark.

They will pass Canary Wharf and then on to cross Tower Bridge and continue into central London.

Runners then run back over Tower Bridge before passing along Victoria Embankment then over to Westminster.

The run continues through London and crosses onto The Mall, finishing up opposite Buckingham Palace and ending the 26.2-mile run.

Can I watch it on the TV?

The coverage of the race will be broadcast on BBC1 and BBC2 and will start at 8.30am. There is more coverage on the red button of the elite runners.

Am I allowed to go and watch the race live?

Every year thousands of spectators turn up to support the runners, cheering and following the progress.

Be warned that if you are planning on supporting very centrally then it will be ridiculously busy.

You will be able to download an app if you have a family member or friend and track where they are during the race.

Try and arrive early if you are planning on watching and be prepared for a long busy day.

There are lots of shops and pubs on the route so you can grab a drink as you watch.

How can I find my family member/friend after the race?

Before the race, make a very definite point to meet, preferably not near the finish line because everyone will be hanging around. It is very unlikely you will find them in the crowd but near Horse Guards Parade there will be huge letters from A-Z to meet at so pick one and stick to it.

What else do I need to know?

The DLR will be on strike this weekend and there are no plans at the moment to call it off so if you may need to make other plans.

See the table below for road closures.

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When is next year's London Marathon?

Next year's marathon will be held on April 29, 2019.