Despite the busyness and built-up spaces, we’re spoilt for choice for running routes in London. Whether you want to take in the amazing landmarks or the prettiest parks, there’s a route to suit every taste. You just have to know where to look. These are our favourites.
Our Top Five Favourite Running Routes in London
Richmond Park
Richmond Park is a popular running spot for a reason. It’s beautiful. There’s no traffic. And there are multiple routes, so you can plot a path according to your time and your capabilities. If you want to run the main perimeter, then you’re looking at a distance of around 11.6km, which won’t suit everyone. But there are plenty of places to rest, or simply enjoy the view. And there aren’t many other places in London where you can see red stags as you run.
The Waterloo loop
There are multiple spots along the Thames that provide a really enjoyable running experience. But one of the most picturesque is the leisurely 6km loop between Millennium and Westminster Bridges. It’s a circuit, so you can start anywhere along the way. But if you begin your journey at Waterloo, you can run along the South Bank to Tate Modern. Cross the Thames on the Millennium Bridge, then continue back in the opposite direction until you reach Westminster Bridge and cross over to your starting point.
The towpath running route
London’s canals are one of its prettiest assets. And for runners, they present some really interesting running routes. In East London, you can find a 10km loop from the Limehouse Cut to the Olympic Park and back again. Calling by Victoria Park and Mile End in the one direction and Colman’s Wharf in the other. There’s lots to see and limited elevation, and it keeps things interesting as at times you have to concentrate on where you’re going!
The three park run
There are so many parks in London, it can be hard to take your pick. So, why not choose a route that allows you to enjoy three? There’s 6km between St James’s Park and Hyde Park, with Green Park stationed right between the two. Giving you a great opportunity to stretch your legs and take in some of the sights. If you start in Hyde Park at the Kensington Palace entrance and jog along the Serpentine lake, you’ll find yourself heading for the Wellington Arch and Green Park. From there, aim for Buckingham Palace, proceed down The Mall and onto St James’s Park. Once there, you can either stop for a breather or challenge yourself to a few more steps with a run around the lake. Feel like a longer stretch? Why not take in Buckingham Palace gardens and Kensington Palace gardens too? You can make it into a bit of a circuit.
Hampstead Heath
If you’re looking for a shorter route with a more challenging elevation, Hampstead Heath is a great choice. With a crosshatch of tracks and paths, you can choose a route that suits you. But the circumference is only 5km, so it’s a good choice for most. If you want to really get your heart beating and thighs burning, the track up to Parliament Hill has an elevation of 122m – but the view from the top is very much worth the effort.
There are so many places to run in London – every one of the parks is worth a visit. Just remember to choose the right trainers, warm up first, start slowly, and stay hydrated. And if you have an injury, don’t be tempted to try and run it out.
Get in touch with Ultra Sports Clinic to find out how we can help repair your running injuries.
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