London is home to a wide variety of scenic running spots, catering to everyone from casual joggers to serious marathon trainers. Whether you’re looking for park trails, riverside paths, or challenging hills, the city has something to offer. Here are ten fantastic places to go for a run, each with unique features, popular routes, and nearby parkrun events.
1. Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens
Why Run Here?
Right in the heart of London, these two connected parks provide a peaceful escape from the busy streets. The tree-lined paths, open green spaces, and lakes make for a refreshing run.
Popular Route:
A full loop around both parks covers about 7 km (4.3 miles), passing key landmarks like the Serpentine Lake and Kensington Palace.
Runner Community:
Expect to see plenty of fellow runners, especially in the early morning and on weekends.
Nearby parkrun:
While Hyde Park doesn’t have its own parkrun, Fulham Palace parkrun are close by, held every Saturday at 9:00 AM.
2. Regent’s Park & Primrose Hill
Why Run Here?
Regent’s Park offers beautifully manicured gardens and wide pathways, while Primrose Hill adds a challenge with a rewarding panoramic view of London’s skyline.
Popular Route:
A 4 km (2.5 miles) loop around Regent’s Park’s Outer Circle is a popular choice, with an optional detour up Primrose Hill for a tougher workout.
Runner Community:
The Inner and Outer Circles are frequent spots for runners, especially those training for races.
Nearby parkrun:
Regent’s Park parkrun takes place every Saturday at 9:00 AM.
3. Thames River Path
Why Run Here?
Few routes in London offer as many iconic sights as the Thames Path. You’ll pass landmarks like Big Ben, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge.
Popular Route:
A well-loved ~10 km (6.2 miles) stretch runs from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge, with the option to cross the river for a looped return.
Runner Community:
This is a hotspot for both runners and cyclists, especially in the mornings.
Nearby parkrun:
Southwark parkrun, held every Saturday at 9:00 AM, is close to the Thames.
4. Hampstead Heath
Why Run Here?
For those who love trails, Hampstead Heath offers a rugged and scenic environment with varied terrain, wooded areas, and open fields.
Popular Route:
A 5 km (3.1 miles) loop includes a climb up Parliament Hill, where you’ll be rewarded with one of the best views in London.
Runner Community:
Favored by trail runners and those looking for hill training.
Nearby parkrun:
Hampstead Heath parkrun is held every Saturday at 9:00 AM.
5. Richmond Park
Why Run Here?
This vast Royal Park feels like an escape to the countryside, complete with rolling hills and free-roaming deer. Ideal for marathon training long runs in London.
Popular Route:
The Tamsin Trail follows the park’s perimeter, offering a scenic 12 km (7.5 miles) loop.
Runner Community:
A favorite among long-distance runners, especially on weekends.
Nearby parkrun:
Richmond Park parkrun takes place every Saturday at 9:00 AM.
6. Victoria Park
Why Run Here?
Flat and well-maintained, Victoria Park is perfect for steady-paced runs or speed training.
Popular Route:
A 5 km (3.1 miles) loop around the park’s perimeter is the most commonly used route.
Runner Community:
This park is a hub for runners and local clubs.
Nearby parkrun:
Victoria Park doesn’t host a parkrun, but Mile End parkrun is nearby and held every Saturday at 9:00 AM.
7. Battersea Park
Why Run Here?
Situated alongside the Thames, this park offers traffic-free, flat paths ideal for relaxed jogs or interval training.
Popular Route:
A simple 3 km (1.9 miles) loop around the park’s perimeter is frequently used.
Runner Community:
It’s particularly popular with runners in the evenings after work.
Nearby parkrun:
Battersea parkrun takes place every Saturday at 9:00 AM.
8. Greenwich Park
Why Run Here?
Combining history and nature, Greenwich Park offers stunning views from the Royal Observatory and peaceful tree-lined paths.
Popular Route:
A 4 km (2.5 miles) loop includes key highlights like the observatory climb.
Runner Community:
A mix of local runners and tourists exploring the park.
Nearby parkrun:
There is no parkrun inside Greenwich Park, but Charlton parkrun nearby takes place every Saturday at 9:00 AM.
9. Clapham Common
Why Run Here?
This lively open space in South London provides a great mix of flat terrain and a buzzing atmosphere.
Popular Route:
A 5 km (3.1 miles) circuit around the common’s perimeter is widely used.
Runner Community:
Always busy with runners, particularly on weekends.
Nearby parkrun:
Clapham Common parkrun is held every Saturday at 9:00 AM.
10. Bushy Park
Why Run Here?
Famous as the birthplace of parkrun, Bushy Park features wide-open spaces, scenic waterways, and a chance to spot deer.
Popular Route:
A 7 km (4.3 miles) loop around the park’s perimeter offers a peaceful run in a stunning natural setting.
Runner Community:
Expect a strong running presence here, especially on weekends.
Nearby parkrun:
Bushy parkrun, which started in 2004, takes place every Saturday at 9:00 AM and attracts hundreds of runners.
Bonus Tip: After your run, stop by The Pheasantry Café inside the park for a post-run coffee and snack.
Tips for running in London
1. Run Early to Avoid Crowds
London’s parks and riverside paths can get busy, especially on weekends and sunny afternoons. For a smoother and more enjoyable run, head out early in the morning. Not only will you avoid tourists and heavy foot traffic, but you’ll also experience cooler temperatures and calmer surroundings — particularly along the Thames and in popular parks like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park.
2, Watch for Cyclists on Shared Paths
Many of London’s most scenic routes, especially along the Thames Path, are shared with cyclists. Stay alert, keep to one side, and avoid sudden changes in direction. If you’re running with headphones, keep the volume low so you can hear approaching bikes and other runners.
3. Be Prepared for Hills and Uneven Terrain
Not all London routes are flat. Areas like Hampstead Heath and Richmond Park offer fantastic hill training opportunities, but the terrain can be uneven, muddy, or slippery after rain. Choose appropriate running shoes with good grip, especially during autumn and winter months.
4. Respect Wildlife and Park Rules
Several of London’s Royal Parks are home to free-roaming deer, particularly Richmond Park and Bushy Park. Keep a safe distance at all times, especially during the autumn rutting season. Stick to marked paths, follow park signage, and be mindful of other runners and walkers to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer riverside views, historic parks, or nature trails, London has no shortage of great running routes. Each location offers a different experience, from city landmarks to quiet green spaces. With so many excellent options, the only challenge is deciding where to lace up your running shoes next!