For those seeking an opportunity to truly experience London, running offers a unique lens through which one can explore the city’s multifaceted beauty. During my work assignment in London in 2010, I chanced upon an enthralling book: 30 Great Runs in London by Chris Downham, Rebecca Trowbridge. It covers runs in zones 1 to 3 of London’s transportation system, this guide quickly became my playbook, providing plenty of opportunities to explore parts of London I would otherwise not delve into.
It’s a pity the book is now out of print, but my copy will hopefully last many more years of adventures in London. If you, like me, relish the sight of urban greenery while on the move, a second-hand copy of this book is indeed a gem worth seeking.
Over time, my journey with this guide has seen sunny summer outings, brisk early morning runs, and torch-lit evening jaunts in winter. However, a word of caution: some routes pass through parks that close after dark.
Memorable Routes and Moments:
1. Route 23: London Cemetery and Wanstead Park – This route was a picturesque escape through the City of London Cemetery, weaving its way around Wanstead Flats and Park. It was the perfect way to decompress after a taxing day of meetings and offered a moment of reflection.
Did you know? The City of London Cemetery is among the largest municipal cemeteries in Europe. It’s not merely a resting place; it’s a verdant haven for diverse plants and wildlife.
2. Fabulous Runs Around the Richmond Park and Kew Area:
- Route 17: Richmond Park Circuit – As the largest of London’s Royal Parks, Richmond Park is home to over 600 free-roaming deer. Encountering a herd during your run can be a genuinely surreal experience!
- Route 18: Barnes, Kew, and Richmond Circuit This route, covering 6 miles along the Thames and offering the allure of Richmond Park, makes it easy to forget that one is running in the heart of a bustling metropolis.
3. Thames Runs:
The following routes have offered great views of the river, solidifying the Thames as a cherished running companion:
- Route 13: Barnes Bridge to Hammersmith
- Route 14: Putney Bridge to Hammersmith
- Route 27: Westminster and South Bank
- Route 28: Sloane Square to Battersea Park
- Route 26: Thames Loop 3 – Tower Hill and St. Paul’s
An intriguing legend states that should the River Thames ever dry up, the ravens of the Tower of London would take flight, causing the Crown to fall.
4. Route 10: Crystal Palace to Dulwich Village – We did this route as a delightful 6-mile stroll around Crystal Palace Park and through Dulwich, made all the more special in the company of my son and friends.
Crystal Palace Park is renowned for its iconic dinosaur sculptures. Created in the 1850s, these were among the earliest attempts to produce life-sized models of dinosaurs.
5. Unique Finds:
- Route 3: Finsbury Park to Ally Pally – This run stands out in memory due to the disused railway line that leads to Alexandra Palace, with amazing view along the city as you get close to Alexander Palace.
- Route 12: Wimbledon Common – This challenging 5-mile loop features what feels like proper trail running.
Wimbledon Common is rich in folklore. While some locals cherish the legend of the ‘Wombles of Wimbledon’ — fictional creatures known for tidying up and recycling rubbish — I must admit I didn’t spot any during my run.
6. Canal Runs:
Routes such as Route 2: Regents Canal from Camden Town to Mile End, The Limehouse Cut, and Route 29: The Grand Union Canal run (14 June 2023) provide tranquil paths free from vehicular traffic. However, do be mindful of the occasional cyclist, particularly those on e-bikes.
London’s canal system was instrumental during the Industrial Revolution, serving as crucial conduits for transporting goods in and out of the city. As you run alongside these canals, ponder the centuries-old tales they might hold!
7. Historic Dock Runs: Routes such as Canary Wharf and the Isle of Dogs and Surrey Quays and Rotherhithe offer insights into London’s maritime heritage.
Did you know the Isle of Dogs earned its unique name because King Henry VIII is said to have housed his hunting dogs there? While it’s now characterized by the towering structures of Canary Wharf, it’s fascinating to envision its former life as a royal hunting ground, then international port with plenty around to remind you of parts of its history.
8. Central London Classics:
Notable routes like Regents Park and Primrose Hill present the archetypal views of London, making them ideal for a relaxed jog.
Regents Park was conceptualised by John Nash, the acclaimed architect behind Buckingham Palace. When you jog through this park, you’re retracing the steps of numerous historical figures!
9. Next up and Conclusion:
Next on my agenda is Route 1: Fryent Country Park & Welsh Harp.
In conclusion, my adventure with 30 Great Runs in London extends beyond mere running. It’s a journey of discovering the hidden treasures scattered throughout London, reacquainting oneself with its history, and cherishing the lush urban spaces. To fellow enthusiasts who appreciate both running and exploration, I pose a question: Can you find a second-hand copy, and if so, which route would you choose first?
