The best running trails in Greater London

Greater London offers a vast network for runners, with over 5,000 jogging routes documented on komoot. These routes cater to all abilities, from easy loops to challenging long-distance runs, across its royal parks, riverside paths, and ancient woodlands.

You'll find a diverse range of terrains. Greater London features everything from the flat, tree-lined paths of Regent's Park and Victoria Park to the rolling hills and mixed paved/dirt paths of Hampstead Heath. Riverside paths along the Thames and canals offer mostly flat surfaces, while ancient woodlands like Epping Forest provide more natural, varied trails.

Yes, Greater London has several options for longer runs. For instance, the Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) – Buckingham Palace loop from South Bermondsey is a challenging 51.3 km route. The Thames Path also offers extensive segments that can be combined for very long distances, such as the St Saviour's Dock Footbridge – Tower Bridge loop from Deptford, which is 27.1 km.

Greater London has over 550 easy-rated routes. Many of the Royal Parks offer relatively flat and well-maintained paths perfect for an easy jog. Victoria Park, for example, features a flat, scenic 4.3 km loop. St James's Park and Green Park also provide excellent, shorter options for casual runs.

Absolutely. Many of Greater London's parks and green spaces are ideal for circular runs. The Tamsin Trail loop in Richmond Park is a popular 14.5 km circular route known for its varied parkland and free-roaming deer. Other examples include the Epping Forest loop from Chingford and the Wimbledon Common and Windmill Loop.

Yes, many routes offer stunning views and pass by iconic landmarks. Hampstead Heath provides spectacular city views from Parliament Hill. The Thames Path, including routes like the Thames Path loop from Charing Cross, showcases central London landmarks such as the Tower of London, London Eye, and Houses of Parliament. Greenwich Park also offers panoramic city views.

The running routes in Greater London are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 2,100 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse landscapes, the abundance of green spaces within an urban setting, and the variety of routes catering to all fitness levels.

Yes, several routes incorporate beautiful water features. Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens offer runs around the Serpentine Lake. Regent's Park features tranquil ponds, and Victoria Park has a scenic lake with sculptures and a pagoda. You can also find highlights like St. James's Park Lake and Victoria Park Lake along various routes.

London's rich history is woven into many running paths. The Thames Path routes, such as the Millennium Bridge – Tower Bridge loop from Aldgate, take you past historic bridges and iconic buildings. Greenwich Park offers views of the Royal Observatory, and Wimbledon Common features the iconic Wimbledon Windmill. You might also encounter highlights like the Lee Valley VeloPark Olympic Rings.

For those seeking a challenge, Greater London has over 550 difficult-rated routes. Hampstead Heath, with its rolling hills and varied terrain, provides an intermediate to advanced running experience. Longer routes like the 51.3 km Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) – Buckingham Palace loop also offer significant elevation and distance.

Absolutely. London's extensive network of green spaces and waterways makes it easy to link various parks and paths. For example, you can connect Victoria Park to Regent's Park via canal paths, or combine St James's Park and Green Park for a longer run taking in iconic views towards Buckingham Palace.

Yes, for a genuine escape into nature, Epping Forest provides an extensive network of footpaths and bridleways through ancient woodland. Routes like the 16.6 km Epping Forest loop from Chingford offer a tranquil experience with old trees and wildlife habitats.