From short sprints to hilly tours and stamina-testing leg-stretchers, here are the capital’s most scenic and traffic-free running routes.
Listed from shortest to longest, with popular trails outlined in orange and route variations in red, there’s something for everyone – from the most elite athletes to back-of-the-pack slowpokes. If you shut your eyes, you might just forget you’re in London.
The Thames Bend (Zone 1)
If you have 40 minutes, a suspicious amount of enthusiasm and an excess of energy on your lunch break, this 3.75 mile jaunt around the Thames is the perfect route. Starting at Big Ben, you’ll breeze by the London Eye and Tate Modern, cross the Millenium Bridge to St Pauls, and leg-it past Somerset House to close your very cultured loop.
Harrow On The Hill (Zone 5)
This five mile route around Harrow on the Hill begins at North Wembley station and circles the Harrow School estate, passing through church grounds, playing fields and golf courses. The 140-foot climb might seem a little daunting, but it’s worth it for city-wide views at the summit.
An Uphill Haul (Zone 3)
If you’re up for activating those glutes, try tackling this hilly route. Setting off from Wimbledon station, 342 feet of elevation across 5.65 miles might feel punishing, but you’ll be done within the hour.
East City Canal Jog (Zone 2)
This traffic-free canal route takes you through the heart and soul of the East End. Kick off at Victoria Park and you’ll shoot past Fish Island, London Stadium and the ABBA arena before reaching Bromley-by-Bow and turning West towards the Limehouse Basin. With a mix of industrial stretches and verdant canal views, the seven mile loop will take you an hour to complete.
Walthamstow Wetlands (Zone 3)
For an easily reachable foray in (relative) wilderness, try a loop around Walthamstow Wetlands – the largest urban wetland reserve in Europe. From either South Tottenham or Bruce Grove tube stations, this 75-minute route around reservoirs and marshland has plenty of paths for improvising your own route. The dirt track can be uneven or muddy in places, so be sure to wear shoes that have already passed their prime.
Triple Whammy Victory Lap (Zone 1)
If you’re feeling particularly relentless, this 7.45 mile triple whammy through Hyde Park, Green Park and St James’s Park is for you. Starting at the Kensington Garden entrance by Lancaster Gate tube station, follow the perimeter of the three parks for 75 minutes of squirrels, monuments and fountains. With a 457-foot elevation gain, this is one for the brave.
