Discover comfort and calm in the city at the perfect spot to watch the London marathon – as well as do a spot of running, and then relaxing, yourself!
Words: Katy Sunnassee. Images: Westin London City
As London gears up for marathon weekend, The Westin London City becomes a focal point for runners—not only those staying in-house, but the wider community. Through its RunWESTIN programme, the hotel actively supports guests in maintaining their routines while travelling, but more importantly, it creates a shared experience around running.
In the weeks leading up to the marathon, the hotel hosts a series of social runs designed to bring people together.
The sessions aren’t intimidating and high-performance but are inclusive, open-to-all runs that celebrate the simple joy of moving through the city. The first was earlier this month and there will be another in June (see below), inviting you to explore some of London’s most scenic routes, many of which begin right outside the hotel along the Thames. There’s something undeniably special about running past landmarks at golden hour, the river beside you, the city slowly shifting pace.
Marathon weekend: right at the heart of it
Location matters during marathon weekend and this hotel couldn’t be better placed. Sitting directly on the marathon route, it becomes a natural hub of energy and anticipation.
In the days leading up to the race, the hotel leans fully into its role.
The day before the marathon sees the hotel’s inaugural accessible Shakeout Run (April 25, 10-11am) giving marathon participants a chance to loosen their legs, calm their nerves, and connect with others before race day. It’s complemented by practical and useful touches: personalised carb-loading boxes and pre-race nutrition advice from the Westin’s running ambassador Charlie Watson, helping runners fine-tune their preparation.
Charlie is also hosting a webinar this week (April 16) with focus on long runs, pacing, fuelling and mindset. It’s open to anyone: sign up here and find Charlie on Instagram @therunnerbeans.
On marathon day itself, April 26, the hotel opens far beyond its guest list. It becomes a lively, supportive base not just for runners, but for friends, families and spectators. There’s a sense of shared celebration with poster-making stations for supporters, interactive window art, and even a photo booth to capture the moment.
For those needing a moment of calm amid the excitement, complimentary yoga sessions offer a chance to reset, whether you’re preparing to run 26.2 miles or simply absorbing the atmosphere from the sidelines.
The event on June 4 in the evening, tied to Global Running Day, is set to bring together more than 100 runners for an evening 5km through central London. Starting at 6:30pm, the run blends sightseeing with social connection, before returning to the hotel for relaxed post-run drinks, light refreshments, and Hyperice (massage gun) recovery treatments.
And when it’s all over? The Heavenly Spa by Westin becomes a sanctuary. A swim, a treatment, or simply a quiet moment in the facilities feels like a well-earned reward after months of training—or a long day spent cheering.
Wellness woven into every detail
Even beyond the running programme, the hotel’s commitment to wellbeing is consistent and thoughtful. The menus reflect a clear understanding of modern wellness habits, offering lighter, low-carb options that feel intentional rather than restrictive. It’s the kind of place where you can refuel properly, whether that means carb-loading before a race or opting for something lighter post-run.
The broader Westin philosophy, which is built around sleep, nutrition, movement and recovery, is evident throughout. From the deeply comfortable Heavenly Bed (the Westin sells them through a dedicated shop website) to the well-equipped fitness spaces, and relaxing spa lounge serving tea post treatment.
One of the more subtle but surprisingly impactful elements is the signature scent, diffused throughout the hotel – and across the wider Marriott International portfolio. It’s calming without being overpowering, and designed to trigger your brain to feel soothed.
It’s these little touches, including free water and juice in the reception, gentle jazz music that takes you from lift to lobby, as well as exceedingly friendly staff members who go out of their way to help, that makes a stay at the Westin such a treat.
The perfect long weekend base
Of course, not every moment here is about running. The hotel’s location makes it equally suited to slower pleasures. Sitting opposite Shakespeare’s Globe and, next door to that, the Tate Modern, it’s ideal for culture lovers. Long walks along the river come naturally—whether as active recovery or simply a way to take in the city.
What makes The Westin London City so compelling is this balance. It’s a hotel where you can wake up early for a riverside run, spend the afternoon immersed in art or theatre, and wind down in a space that feels both luxurious and restorative.
During marathon season especially, it becomes something more than a place to stay. It’s a meeting point, a recovery zone, a source of motivation and, perhaps most importantly, a reminder that wellness when travelling doesn’t have to be an afterthought. Here, it’s the main event. And it’s worth basing yourself at this riverside haven whatever your reason to visit the capital.
To book a place on the June 4 run, visit Eventbrite.
Book Charlie Watson’s webinar on April 16 here
Nightly rates staying in a Signature King Room at The Westin London City start from £459. For more information or to book, visit www.westinlondoncity.co.uk
