5k Run London: Scenic Route Around St Paul's and The Thames

Route Overview & Local Insights

Experience the very best of Central London on this flat, 5.3km loop that perfectly balances architectural grandeur with scenic riverside views. Starting near the iconic St Paul's Cathedral, this 100% paved route is an ideal choice for runners looking for a fast, accessible run through the heart of the capital. With only 20m of total ascent, you can focus on your splits as you navigate past the landmark dome of St Paul's before heading south to cross the Thames. The paths along the river offer wide pedestrian walkways, making it a favorite for local office workers on lunch breaks and weekend explorers alike.

The area surrounding the City of London and the South Bank is steeped in over two thousand years of history. As you run past St Paul’s Cathedral, you are circling Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, completed in 1710 after the Great Fire of London. Crossing the Thames provides a unique perspective of the juxtaposition between historic London and the modern skyline, featuring the Shard and the Tate Modern. This route utilizes the Millennium Bridge—the famous "Wobbly Bridge" which was the first new pedestrian bridge to span the Thames in over a century—offering a quintessential London experience for any runner.