Nature & Outdoors
Running Routes on Hampstead Heath
Oliver Hartwell
17 April 2026 · 5 min read
The Heath offers some of the best trail running in London with routes to suit everything from a quick parkrun to serious long run training.
Hampstead Heaths combination of undulating terrain varied surfaces and 790 acres of car free space makes it one of Londons finest running environments. The Saturday parkrun at Parliament Hill athletics track is the most popular entry point drawing 300 to 400 runners each week through a 5km loop that involves a satisfying climb and a fast descent. It is free friendly and timed.
For something longer the full perimeter of the Heath covers approximately 11km if you follow the boundary closely. This route passes through five distinct habitats and climbs about 140m in total. Trail shoes are recommended after wet weather as the paths through the North Wood can be muddy.
Serious distance runners use the Heath as part of longer circuits through Highgate Wood Queens Wood and the Parkland Walk an off road linear route that runs from Finsbury Park to Highgate.
Written by
Oliver Hartwell
Oliver is a lifelong Hampstead resident and architectural historian who has spent three decades uncovering the stories behind the village's Georgian terraces, hidden lanes, and literary landmarks. His writing blends meticulous research with a warm, accessible style.
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