We hope you’re feeling fit.
In case you’ve missed out on all the hype, the Virgin Money London Marathon is just around the corner on the 28th of April. This fantastic event is one we look forward to every year. It’s a great reminder to us all that being physical is a big part of being human, and that pushing yourself to achieve exciting things together is one of the best ways to bond and share.
A few of us in the office this year will be taking part in the race and a few more still will be stationed along the course ready to cheer them all on. Watching the marathon is a fantastic social experience and its a great way to take part even if you’re not much of a runner. If you are, however, you’ll be wanting to get in those last few runs before the big day.
This list of ‘Top 5’ London running routes features a few taken right from the marathon course itself, as well some more great routes from around London. Strap on your running shoes and let’s take a look at some of the best places to go running in London.
Hyde park
Where better place to start than the very end. The London Marathon traditionally finishes on the Mall outside Bucking Palace. If you’d like to finish your training run there too, we suggest starting off in Bayswater and heading down across Kensington Gardens. You’ll get to take in some of London’s prettiest park before crossing the road at Hyde Park corner and heading on through Green Park towards the palace.
Southbank
If you really want to see the sights of the city, Southbank is the place to stretch your legs. Starting from Parliament Square, cross Westminster Bridge and simply follow the river all the way down to Bermondsey. Look out for the London Eye, the Tate Modern, the Golden Hind, St Paul’s and Shakespeare’s Globe. You could even stop for a quick refresher at Borough Market.
Regent’s Park
This one isn’t on this year’s marathon route but it’s definitely one of London’s best running areas. Start at Great Portland Street and run around Regent’s Park towards London Zoo. You can run a few sprints up to the top of Primrose hill before following Regent’s Canal all the way back down to Angel. If you want to add a few extra miles, you can follow the waterway all the way to Limehouse where it meets the Thames.
Greenwich
This year’s marathon starts in Greenwich park and heads out through Charlton. However, if you’re traveling all the way to Greenwich we recommend making the most of it. Head in the opposite direction over Blackheath and explore the village there, before working your way back around to the river. Once there, you can run past back past a few of Greenwich’s key sites, like the Old Royal Naval College and the Cutty Sark.
Hampstead Heath
As one of London’s truly wild green spaces, Hampstead Heath is an unmissable running experience. Drop in at Hampstead Heath rail station and take your time exploring this rough and ready space. You can even take a dip in the bathing pond areas, so make sure you come prepared to train for that next triathlon!
For more unique ways to explore London, take a look at our London Tours page. You’ll find all sorts of exciting ways to see the city, such as river cruises, chauffered driving experiences and London’s famous open-top busses.
