{"id":4825,"date":"2025-07-31T08:30:48","date_gmt":"2025-07-31T07:30:48","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/news\/?p=4825"},"modified":"2025-08-15T13:16:18","modified_gmt":"2025-08-15T12:16:18","slug":"best-running-routes-in-london","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/destination-guides\/london\/best-running-routes-in-london\/","title":{"rendered":"12 best running routes in London"},"content":{"rendered":"

It’s time to lace up and explore the sights of London \ud83d\udc5f<\/h2>\n

Whether you’re in town for a leisurely getaway or a whirlwind business trip, there’s no better way to get a feel for London than by foot – literally.<\/h4>\n

This city isn’t just about red buses, historic landmarks and endless cups of tea; it’s also home to some truly great running routes. From riverside paths with skyline views to peaceful parks right in the heart of the hustle, London offers something for every kind of runner – whether you’re squeezing in a 5K before meetings or heading out for a weekend jog to shake off the jet lag.<\/h4>\n

So pack your trainers and let’s hit the pavement! Here are 12 of the best running routes in London to help you see the city in stride.<\/h4>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

1. Battersea Park<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
1.7 miles | 2.8 km or 2.2 miles | 3.5 km<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"BatterseaJust across the river from Chelsea, Battersea Park is one of London’s favourite green gems and beloved by the local running community. This urban park offers wide, flat paths and a welcome break from the city’s buzz.<\/h4>\n

For a quick and scenic loop, try the Carriage Drive Circuit. It’s a smooth 2.8km loop that follows the park’s internal road – perfect for a short, uninterrupted jog or a flat 5km if you decide to do two laps. If you’re looking to stretch your legs a bit further? The Park ‘Boundary’ route, which takes in the Riverside Terrace and outer pavements, is approximately 3.5km and adds in lovely river views along the Thames. You’ll pass by the Peace Pagoda, duck ponds and plenty of greenery – ideal if you like your cardio with a side of nature. Plus, there are caf\u00e9s nearby for a well-earned post-run coffee and treat afterwards.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

2. Along the Thames<\/strong><\/h3>\n
8 miles | 13 km circular loop<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"WomanRunning along the Thames River embankment is one of London\u2019s absolute gems – a great blend of sightseeing and sweat! What makes this stretch great is how close the central London bridges are to one another, making it easy to mix and match your own loop depending on how far (or fast) you want to go.<\/h4>\n

The full stretch from Tower Bridge to Vauxhall Bridge is around 4 miles\/6.4 km, with incredible views all the way: Tower Bridge, City Hall, London Bridge, the Tate Modern, Millennium Bridge, the National Theatre, the London Eye, and of course, Big Ben. Or make this an 8 mile\/13 km loop and start north of the River Thames and return on the south!<\/h4>\n

Pressed for time? There\u2019s a great shorter option too, at just 3.5 miles\/5.6 km. Start at Big Ben, run along the north side of the river. Cross over Jubilee Bridge and follow the south bank to Millennium Bridge. Then head back across to your starting point. It\u2019s scenic, simple to follow, and packed with iconic London views at every turn.<\/h4>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

3. Regent’s Park & Primrose Hill<\/strong><\/h3>\n
3.4 miles | 5.5 km<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"RunnerIf you’re after a scenic city run with a mix of nature, landmarks and one of the best skyline views in London, this route ticks all the boxes. Regent\u2019s Park and Primrose Hill is a manageable 3.4 mile\/5.5 km loop on flat, tarmac paths (with just one hill to get your heart rate up!).<\/h4>\n

Starting at the junction of Park Crescent and the Outer Circle, in the southeast corner of Regent\u2019s Park, this route is easy to reach from Regent\u2019s Park, Great Portland Street or Warren Street stations. Follow the path along the edge of the park in an anti-clockwise loop, passing manicured gardens, open parkland and even a glimpse of the animals near London Zoo. After about 0.6 miles, veer left at the drinking fountain and continue past the zoo toward the Outer Circle. From here, cross the Regent\u2019s Canal and Prince Albert Road into Primrose Hill – your one hill climb of the run. Yes, it\u2019s a bit of a push to the top, but the reward is a sweeping view of London’s skyline.<\/h4>\n

Snap a photo, take a breather and then descend via the south-east corner of the park and back to the Regents Canal crossing. Once you re-enter Regent\u2019s Park, keep the lake to your left and wind your way back to the starting point.\u00a0A peaceful finish to a run that blends urban energy with green serenity.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

4. Victoria Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n
2.7 miles | 4.3km<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"VictoriaTucked away in East London, Victoria Park is a firm favourite among East London runners – and for good reason! Locally known as ‘Vicky Park’, it offers a great blend of greenery, wide open paths and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that makes you feel like a regular.<\/h4>\n

The outer loop is around 2.7 miles\/4.3 km, making it ideal for a tempo run or a few steady laps. The park itself is beautifully maintained, with tree-lined avenues, ornamental lakes and even a few hidden caf\u00e9s if you’re after a post-run coffee. It’s mostly flat, which makes it great for all levels, whether you’re a seasoned runner or just easing into a new routine while away from home. Plus, you’re likely to spot plenty of fellow runners, cyclists and dog walkers, giving the whole place a great community feel.<\/h4>\n

Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Search deals<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

5. The Three Parks<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
7.2 miles | 11.6 km<\/span><\/h5>\n

\"ManLooking for a traffic-free run in the centre of the city? You\u2019re in luck! London has a surprisingly seamless network of green spaces right at its heart. The Three Parks route is a local favourite for good reason, weaving together Hyde Park, Green Park and St James\u2019s Park in one gloriously green loop.<\/h4>\n

Start at Speaker\u2019s Corner in Hyde Park, then head west toward Kensington Gardens, where you\u2019ll pass the sparkling Serpentine. Loop around the edge of the park and swing back east along its southern side before exiting at Hyde Park Corner. From there, it\u2019s a quick dash into Green Park – a peaceful, shaded stretch that leads you straight to the gates of Buckingham Palace. St James\u2019s Park is just beyond with its flower-lined paths, charming lake views and postcard-worthy skyline of London icons.<\/h4>\n

To complete the 7.2 mile\/11.6 km loop and return to your starting point, exit St James\u2019s Park near Horse Guards Road and head north along The Mall. Keeping Buckingham Palace to your left, re-enter Green Park. Head north following the perimeter of the park, then head west, retracing your steps back into Hyde Park. Then follow the northbound path back up to Speaker\u2019s Corner.<\/h4>\n
\n

<\/h3>\n

6. Parkland Walk<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
4.8 miles | 7.7 km<\/span><\/h5>\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/div>\n
\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\n
View this post on Instagram<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\n
\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

A post shared by The Parkland Walk (@parklandwalk)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n