5k Run West Hendon: Scenic Loop by Brent Reservoir

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 4.5km loop offers an incredibly flat and refreshing escape through one of North West London’s hidden natural gems. Starting near Birchen Grove, you’ll navigate a mix of paved paths and soft, grassy trails as you skirt the eastern edge of the Brent Reservoir. With zero meters of ascent, this route is a favorite for local runners looking for a consistent rhythm or a recovery session. You'll enjoy open views of the water and the expansive West Hendon Playing Fields, where the terrain transitions to a scenic perimeter run around the sports pitches, providing a soft surface that is gentle on the joints.

Locally known as the "Welsh Harp," the Brent Reservoir carries a rich history as an industrial-era feeder for the Grand Union Canal, though today it stands as a protected Site of Special Scientific Interest. As you run, keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife—including great crested grebes and grey herons—that makes this area a tranquil sanctuary away from the bustle of the A406. This loop captures the unique character of West Hendon, blending the community spirit of the local sports grounds with the wilder, marshy atmosphere of the reservoir banks, making it a perfect spot for those who want a nature-filled run without leaving the city.