The Best Running Routes in London

My name is Annabelle, and I’m from Sydney, Australia. I attended LSE Summer School for Sessions 1 and 2, where I studied MG209: Bargaining and Negotiation: Interests, Information, Strategy and Power and LL204: The Foundations of AI Law and Regulation. I am an avid runner, and one of the best parts of my time in London was running through the beautiful streets and parks, as well as seeing the city’s most iconic landmarks! Here are my favourite running routes, perfect for anyone keen to explore London while staying active.

1. Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace Loop (12km)

Start Point: Hyde Park Corner (Piccadilly line) or Queensway (Central line)

This route is a London classic and perfect for a weekend long run. If you’re starting at Hyde Park Corner, follow the outer loop of Hyde Park, passing Serpentine lake and Kensington Gardens. Continue east through Green Park, then do a loop around Buckingham Palace and St James’s Park before heading back through Hyde Park. This route has a great atmosphere early in the morning with fellow runners and cyclists.

Tips: Go early in the morning (before 8 am) to avoid heavy tourist crowds, the park paths are mostly flat (perfect for an easy run), and bring your phone for photos!

2. LSE Campus to Thames Riverfront (5km)

Start Point: Lincoln’s Inn Fields

This was my go-to for a quick run before or after lectures.

Starting from campus, head down toward the Strand and cross over Waterloo Bridge. Turn right to follow South Bank towards the London Eye, then loop back across Westminster Bridge for a fantastic view of Big Ben, and then finish by running back through Temple. See some of the best views of London’s skyline in one short loop!

Tips: Early evening runs give you lots of energy from all the commuters and tourists out and about. Also be mindful of traffic crossings since it’s a run through central London, so expect some stops at the lights.

3. Long Thames River Run (10km)

Start Point: Connaught House (LSE Campus)

If you have enough time and want to see more of the city, this longer run is perfect. Start at campus and run west past Embankment, passing Westminster, Lambeth Palace, and the MI6 Building at Vauxhall. Loop back on the other side of the river for a change of scenery, crossing at Lambeth Bridge or Vauxhall Bridge.

Tips: Sundays are best, South Bank is lively but not too crowded if you go early.I’d recommend avoiding peak commuter hours on weekdays when the paths along Embankment are packed.

4. Regent’s Park Loop (5km, 10km and 20km options)

Start Point: Regent’s Park or Baker Street Station

For a more peaceful run, head to Regent’s Park. The outer circle is just under 5km and perfect for running multiple laps. For variety, add a lap through the inner circle gardens or head north to Primrose Hill for a challenging hill climb and one of the best views of London’s skyline.

Tips: Combine laps for a 10-20 km run, the park is also great for speed sessions thanks to all the flat paths! Ending at Gail’s Bakery just outside the park for a coffee and pastry is also a great way to finish off a run.

General tips

• CityMapper is a navigation app and will become your best friend for planning the best ways to get to or from each location by tube, bus, or even a Lime bike, including prices.

• Run these routes early or late to avoid peak tourist times, especially near the river.

• The Strava app allows you to find where the closest public toilets are along your route.

Run Clubs:

Running is even better with friends, and London has a great run club scene. I joined:

• Puresport Hackney Run Club (‘Hackney Clubhouse’), it was super welcoming and a great way to see East London while meeting new people.

• Stay In It (Instagram: @stayinitlondon), this was a fun, social club perfect for students who want to explore new areas together.

You can find plenty more clubs through TikTok, or even create your own crew with other Summer School students!