How is it to live in London?

It's like having a running race every other day.

I once saw a reel on Instagram—a girl walking in Clapham in the evening, and she asked, "Am I in a marathon?" Then, every few seconds, a runner ran by. That's how many runners there are in London these days.

I started running last year because I got a pair of Hoka running shoes (shoes are very important), and the summers in London are just generous—sunny days with a little breeze, and the sun doesn't set until 9 pm. (Yeah, winter is like darkness by 4 pm.)

Below are some London running groups

Midnight Runner (my favourite-best running club in London)

Location: Tower Bridge (Tuesdays)
Distance: 8km (5km for special events)

Every Tuesday at Tower Bridge, with bag drop available. Festive specials will be 5km, but normally it's 8km. Highly recommend joining them as they truly welcome runners of all paces. All captains take care of the runners, sharing good vibes in the group. Track sessions are every Thursday, and Sunday has long run/trail sessions. Sometimes they organize parties and post-run parties on Fridays. Truly my favorite running group because everyone is so friendly, and each exercise stop gives you opportunities to speak to other runners. This is a big regular social event—just have fun and enjoy the run! Reserve your spot on Heylo (website available for more details)

RunSoc

Multiple locations: Hammersmith, London City, Hyde Park, Regents Park
Regular 5km runs on Wednesdays at 6 pm

RunSoc is another free running group. They have an official website and several running whatsapp groups (Hammersmith, London City, Hyde Park, Regents Park). A regular evening running session every Wednesday at 6 pm for 5km. Definitely recommend those who live nearby to find their neighborhood run group—it's a good chance to meet people living in the same area.

Friday Night Lights (some require payment)

Locations vary weekly
Unique running experience with fun elements like confetti
Paid events, collaborations with brands

If you are looking for a healthy Friday night out, here you go. This is an evening and social running club. A crowd with good fun and some confetti during running. Events take place in different parts of London every week, and it also has collaborations with brands or running groups. Check out their website to find all events.
I joined once, and it was fun to run around Tower Bridge (around 7 km), but personally, I am not a huge fan of paying for running events. I started running because it's free!

PureSports Run Club

Based in the south of London, they release a weekly schedule every Monday. Every Saturday morning, they have a long run session.(website)

High Performers Club

They have running events occasionally. Personal experience was they were pretty fast, and I was really focused on catching up with them. Runners who came to the event were with friends, so I found it a bit difficult to meet new friends. Probably I was shy by then. (website)

Runner and Stunners (Hosted by Jenny)

Normally 5km easy weekend run in London during the weekend hosted by Jenny, and it's girls only. The run usually ends at the cafe to grab a pastry/coffee. Girls are friendly, and she runs at a very slow pace, which is a comfortable pace for you to chat during the run. I joined once and found it easy going and easy to meet up with other girls. Locations are different every week. (facebook group) I would say this is more beginner-friendly running group if you want to start running in London.

London City Runners

River run every Tuesday and Thursday. They have two routes and three groups for runners to choose (details).

Swifty Mondays

Monday 5km run in central London. Bags drop available. (website)

Scrambled Legs

Saturday long run group (instagram) - if you are preparing for any half/marathons/ultra training and would like to find runners for long run, this one is for you. Locations are different every week.

Runner Beans Club

Based in Greenwich and Saturday 5km run! They have a website for all details.

Run Dusty London

Like running and beer? This might be your thing. They organize runs on a monthly basis. You can check out their Instagram to find events!

Parkrun

Not all parks have parkrun. You have to look up which park is available. its Saturday 9AM! Dont forget to register as a park run runner then you can receive result by scanning the code after finishing the run :)

London's running scene offers something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned marathoners. Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, meet new people, or explore the city, joining a running group is an excellent way to achieve your goals. Just show up and try out different groups to find the one that best suits your pace, schedule, and social preferences.

If you have tried any of these running groups or know of others in London? Share your experiences in the comments below!

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