Runna, in partnership with the Hackney Moves festival, has provided the best running routes around the capital ahead of the Wizz Air Hackney Half.
We are so spoilt with our beautiful city, it’s pretty flat and perfect for running. With its many glorious landmarks, bridges and parks there are plenty of opportunities to explore, provided you know the right routes, of course. We all have our favourite tried and tested routes but why not branch out and mix it up now the weather has cooled down and try a new route to get your miles in?
1. ALONG THE RIVER
This route is great for those in central London and can easily be covered in a lunch break. From Waterloo, make your way along the South Bank until you reach the Tate Modern. Next, cross over Millennium Bridge and jog back along the river to Westminster Bridge. It really is as simple as that.
Distance: 6km
‘Along the River’ route
2. REGENT’S PARK & PRIMROSE HILL
Head west around Regent’s Park from the York Bridge entrance until you reach Ormonde Terrace. Next, turn off from Ormonde terrace and do a quick lap of Primrose Hill. Not only can this jog be done in less than an hour, but the views from Primrose Hill are pretty epic.
Distance: 4.1km
‘Regent’s Park & Primrose Hill’ route
3. THREE PARKS
Head to the City and enjoy a brisk tour of three of London’s best parks: Hyde Park, Green Park and St. James Park. Begin your run at the north side of Kensington Gardens, close to Lancaster Gate tube station. Next, head west, and then turn back east in a circle along the edge of Hyde Park, Green Park and St. James’s Park. Eventually, you’ll finish up back at Lancaster Gate.
Distance: 12km
‘Three Parks’ route
4. VICTORIA PARK
Victoria Park is situated between Stratford and Hackney and is a great jogging spot for anyone living or working in East London. Take a lap around the park, followed by a run down the Regent’s Canal and back again. The route begins at the Crown Gate entrance to Victoria Park and takes you through Little Venice: a cosy, tree-lined neighbourhood, just north of Paddington. Treat yourself to a coffee at the Pavillion Café.
Distance: 7.8km
‘Victoria Park’ route
5. RICHMOND PARK
As London’s largest park, Richmond Park is a must-visit running spot. It covers nearly 10km of stunning woods, fields, and nature reserves. Our favourite circuit is the Tasmin Trail which takes you all the way around the park and connects to various entrances.
Distance: 11.6km
‘Richmond Park’ route
Entries for 2024’s Wizz Air Hackney Half have sold out. Register your interest for 2025 at www.hackneymoves.com
