The London Marathon is renowned for being a test of perseverance and commitment to the cause.

It is after all, a gruelling 26.2 mile run around the concrete pathways of London, a true test for anyone willing enough to take it on.

Fortunately for those taking part, some of London’s stunning architecture and historical monuments can be viewed in all their glory.

Around 36,000 people took part in 2014 – in all sorts of outfits (yes that is supposed to be a rhino!)

Here’s a few of the famous landmarks that can help to act as markers – some are a lot closer to the finish than others!

Greenwich Park

Greenwich Park marks the start of the race, with thousands of competitors gathering in its grounds before setting off on their demanding journey. Passing through the park gates is just the beginning.

Cutty Sark

The Cutty Sark, a spectacular wooden 19th century clipper ship, marks the first major landmark on the route. Housed in a permanent dry-dock in Greenwich, athletes will have completed around six miles when the vessel comes into sight.

The Shard

As the runners make their way towards Tower Bridge, the imposing shape of the Shard dominates the skyline in front of them.

Tower Bridge

The iconic bridge with its two incredible towers takes its name from the nearby Tower of London and it marks the only time that runners cross the River Thames.

HMS Belfast

A glance to the left as the runners cross Tower Bridge provides them with the chance to glimpse the former warship in all her glory. Now a museum, the Royal Navy cruiser saw action in the Second World War and in the Korean War.

Tower of London

The historic castle can be dated back to the times immediately following the Norman invasion of England in 1066 and it has remained a powerhouse of England ever since. Runners pass the Tower twice on their run, once after about 12 and a half miles and then again some ten miles later.

Canary Wharf

Heading back along the river towards London’s financial centre, runners will come face to face with the dominating towers of Canary Wharf. By the time runners have reached this milestone though, they are well over half way towards their goal.

Monument

A tribute to the Great Fire of London in 1666 stands at the northern end of London Bridge, some 62 metres tall – the same distance from where the fire originally started in Pudding Lane. The fires in the runner’s hearts will be burning strong by this point, with just a few miles left to complete.

St Paul’s Cathedral

Wren’s spectacular building is not directly on the route, the extravagant dome can be viewed on many occasions as the runners make their way along the Thames.

Cleopatra’s Needle

The Ancient Egyptian obelisk stands tall and proud on the Embankment as runners make their way towards Westminster and the final mile of their tour of London.

The London Eye

Across the Thames, spectators can view the action in style from the London Eye which provides stunning views of the Embankment and beyond. The end is nigh when runners pass the eye!

Houses of Parliament

The golden Palace of Westminster and Big Ben tower over runners as they reach one of the last turns for home and the respite that comes with reaching the finishing tapes.

Buckingham Palace

Signalling the entrance to The Mall and the final metres of the run, the Palace represents an opportunity for those with any energy to make a dash for the finish!

Race complete!

Here is some information on sending parcels to London.