Running Trails London: Best Paths for Joggers and Nature Seekers

When you think of running trails London, outdoor paths designed for jogging, walking, or brisk movement through green spaces in the city. Also known as London running routes, these trails are where fitness meets urban escape—no gym required. You’re not just chasing miles. You’re chasing calm. London’s running trails cut through parks, along rivers, and past centuries-old landmarks, turning every jog into a mini-adventure. Whether you’re logging your first 5K or training for a marathon, the right trail makes all the difference.

Many of these trails connect to bigger networks like the Thames Path, a 184-mile national trail following the River Thames from its source to the sea, which offers flat, scenic stretches perfect for long runs. Then there’s Regent’s Park, a vast green space in central London with a 2.9-mile loop that’s a favorite among locals for its smooth surfaces and tree-lined views. You’ll see runners of all levels here—some with headphones, others just listening to birds. The Greenwich Park, a historic royal park with rolling hills and panoramic views of the city skyline, adds a challenge for those who want hills without leaving the city. These aren’t just paths. They’re living parts of London’s daily rhythm.

What makes London’s running trails special isn’t just the scenery—it’s the variety. You can start in a quiet residential street in Clapham, slip into Richmond Park to spot deer, then end with a coffee near Tower Bridge. The city’s network of trails is built for real life: early morning runs before work, evening loops after dinner, weekend long-distance pushes. No tickets. No membership. Just open space and pavement. And unlike treadmill miles, these trails change with the seasons—autumn leaves crunching underfoot, spring blossoms lining the canal paths, winter mist rolling off the Thames.

Most of the posts below dive into London’s hidden corners—from rooftop bars to secret comedy spots—but they all share one thing: they’re about experiencing the city beyond the tourist map. The same goes for running trails. The best ones aren’t on every guidebook. They’re the ones locals swear by—the quiet stretch along the Grand Union Canal, the loop around Hampstead Heath that feels like the countryside, the riverside path where you can run past historic pubs and never see a single sign. Below, you’ll find a curated list of posts that reveal London’s true character. And if you’ve ever laced up your shoes and just gone for a run, you’ll recognize these places instantly.