London Half Marathon: A Running Tour Through the Iconic City

Running makes it possible to see London’s most iconic landmarks across many neighbourhoods in a way that walking can’t achieve. On this half-marathon running tour, you’ll hear about the capital’s incredible past while running along the streets where history unfolded.

I’ll share tales that shaped the city, from the days of Roman Londinium and Medieval London, to the Industrial Revolution and modern times.

The tour starts outside the Tower of London, built by William the Conqueror. You’ll cross the majestic Tower Bridge and pass renowned sites like the Globe Theatre, London Bridge, and HMS Belfast. From there, you’ll see St. Paul’s Cathedral, a symbol of resilience after the Great Fire of London in 1666. As you dash along the Strand and down the legendary Fleet Street, I’ll tell you how it became the printing and publishing industry’s hub in the 1500s.

You’ll then continue through Westminster, from Big Ben to Downing Street before heading to Covent Garden, a popular market area and hangout since the 1600s, and Marble Arch. As you near the finish, you’ll spot the iconic Buckingham Palace, home of Britain’s reigning monarch, where the tour ends.

During this two-hour London tour, you’ll also have a chance to:

• Cross the Millennium Bridge and learn about Londinium, the original Roman settlement
• Run along the Thames, passing landmarks like Cleopatra’s Needle (an Egyptian obelisk), and the statue of Sir Joseph Balzagette, who was responsible for the construction of the Victorian Embankment
• Sprint past Shakespeare’s Globe, where Shakespearean drama came to life
• Dash through Fleet Street, taking in sites like Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese pub which was once frequented by the city’s literary giants
• Hear about Trafalgar Square, the battle it was named after, and Nelson’s Column memorial at its centre
• Learn about Piccadilly Circus which got its name from the tailor, Robert Baker, famous for his Piccadill collars
• Jog through Hyde Park, one of London’s royal parks, passing the Royal Albert Hall and catching a glimpse of Kensington Palace

Whether you’re running or walking, this tour combines exercise, culture, and history. Enjoy scenic routes, mid-tour café stops, and the option to complete it in sections – perfect for runners of all paces.

It’s the only running tour you’ll need to see all of London’s must-visit landmarks on one route.