Inspired by the Marathon? Here are 5 of the Best Running Routes
Inspired by the London marathon? Whilst we might not want to (or actually be able to) get round the full 26.2 miles, we’re definitely keen to run. Not only is it good for you both physically and mentally, it’s one of the cheapest and most accessible sports out there, which is always a plus in London. Here are five runs to try out now:
The Less Than Five Miles
For When You're Between 5km and 10km
If a 10km still leaves you ordering an Uber to get you home but you’re a whizz at a 5km, then the obvious step is somewhere in between. This run takes you along Bishops Park, the Thames Path and back along (for London) a muddy track before you end up back in Putney. You’ve got the traffic of the river and the views of the bridges to keep you occupied so that the miles fly by and there are some good coffee shops nearby for when you finish.
Where: Starting at Putney Bridge
Website: Get The Route Here
For Hill Training
When You're Bored of Gyms
Bored of setting the incline on the highest setting on the treadmill? Granted London isn’t the hilliest of cities, but there are hills out there and they’ve got to better than a sweaty gym. Starting at Wimbledon Station, you’ll run past Wimbledon park, past the All England Lawn Tennis Club Centre Court (so maybe don’t do this run during the tournament), up to Southfields, before running back along Wimbledon Common and running (thankfully) downhill back to the station. The run is just over five and a half miles and with a few hills thrown in, it’s hilly without being hideous.
Where: Starting at Wimbledon Station
Website: Get The Route Here
For Sight Seeing
Dodging Tourists
Ah the classic run along Southbank, you’ll have to be prepared to dodge tourists along the way, but this flat run will take in sites such as the London Eye, HMS Belfast, Somerset House, The Shard, the Tower of London, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. You’ll also be running along the river which always makes things more interesting.
Where: Starting at Lambeth Bridge
Website: Get The Route Here
The Scenic Route
No Roads
For a run entirely on paths and trails then it has to be Hampstead Heath. Of course, there are lots of routes and you don’t even have to stick to the trail but this route will have you running all over the heath, taking in Parliament Hill the deer enclosure, past the stately Kenwood House and running past the bathing lakes. Taking a rucksack? Pack your swimming stuff for a dip after!
Where: Starting at Hampstead Heath
Website: Get The Route Here
The Just Over a Half Marathon
The Long Haul
You really can cover quite a lot of London when you’re training for a half marathon, this run starts with a lap of Victoria Park before wiggling along the canal right up to Camden and on to Regent’s Park. A lap of that will then have you heading up Primrose Hill, quick pitstop for a view and then head up to Chalk Farm Underground – because chances are you won’t want to run home again.
Where: Starting at Victoria Park
Website: Get The Route Here
