Marathon - what's Surrey Quays like for spectators?

[ClaireClaire]

Help! I want to go out tomorrow (with kiddies) to support friends who are running.

Surrey Quays is looking like the easiest option travel-wise, but I remember it being really busy.

Anyone have any advice re. what time I'd need to get there to get a good viewing spot?? (I know the elite runners are expected at 9.47am, the 5-hour crowd will be passing around 11.30.)

Alternatively, mile 8 around Deptford I remember being quiet, but looks a bit tricky to get to. Probably easiest to take train to New Cross Gate and then walk, which is around a mile ... could be too far if kids are whiney. Any other ideas re how to get there? I could drive but expect the whole place to be choc-a-bloc so public transport probably better.

Any advice from experienced spectators gratefully received!

Claire

[silverfox]

Watch it on the telly - a few bags of crisps, cheese strings etc and your kids will love it

[Jeremy]

My wife used to live in Surrey Quays, I remember standing on Redriff Road watching it one year... there really weren't many spectators at all, you won't have any trouble seeing everyone who runs past.

[taper]

Surrey Quays is busy, but less so the further up the hill you go. Jamaica Road at about 11 miles is a good spot.

[ClaireClaire]

Thanks for the replies people

I went to Deptford at 8 miles, it was good, not too busy. Baby sat in his buggy a few yards behind me and I did my cheering :-)

[jimis]

I remember standing on Redriff Road watching it one year.

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