6k Run Ruislip: Scenic Loop from King's College Playing Fields

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 5.8km clockwise loop offers a refreshing escape through some of North West London’s most scenic green spaces. Starting at King's College Playing Fields, you’ll traverse a mixed-terrain route that balances the smooth surfaces of paved paths with the natural beauty of Ruislip Common. With a gentle ascent of 42m, the course features a few rolling sections—notably around Haste Hill—providing just enough elevation to engage your glutes without becoming overwhelming. Runners will enjoy the tranquil stretches past Woody Bay and Willow Lawn, where the air is fresh and the views across the water provide a perfect backdrop for a mid-distance tempo run or a recovery jog.

Ruislip and Northwood Hills are steeped in local history, offering a suburban charm that feels worlds away from the city center. This route skirts the edges of the historic Ruislip Woods, a National Nature Reserve and ancient woodland that dates back over 700 years. As you pass Woody Bay on the Ruislip Lido, you’re running through what was originally a reservoir built in 1811 to feed the Grand Union Canal. Today, the area is a beloved local haunt for outdoor enthusiasts, combining heritage sites with pristine natural habitats, making it one of the most rewarding spots in the London Borough of Hillingdon for runners who appreciate a blend of history and nature.