Kick-off is at Hyde Park again, which is basically the VIP lounge of London parks. You’ll start near the Serpentine lake, probably having second thoughts about that extra pre-race bagel. The first mile is a gentle nudge through the park’s tree-lined avenues, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot a swan judging your pace.
From there, you’ll slip through Green Park, which is deceptively hilly for a place called “Green.” It’s a short but punchy section where you’ll realise the rhino guy wasn’t joking about the course. Pro tip: Don’t go full gas here, or you’ll regret it when you hit the Mall.
The Coronation of Your Guts
The route then glides past St. James’s Park, where the lake and the pelicans offer a moment of zen before the serious leg work begins. This is where the crowd really picks up, cheering as you run right under the gaze of the Horse Guards. You’ll feel like a royal procession, except your crown is a sweaty headband.
Then comes the big loop through Hyde Park again, which is the real tester. Think of it as the universe’s way of saying, “Yes, you can have those post-race chips, but first, earn them.” The route curls around the Serpentine Bridge, and by mile eight, the rhino in your head might start negotiating a truce.
The final stretch takes you past Kensington Gardens and the Albert Memorial, which is basically a gold-covered pep talk. It’s all downhill from there—emotionally and elevation-wise. You’ll cross the finish line back near Hyde Park, and the sense of accomplishment is massive.
Royal Parks Half Marathon - 2026 | Tommy's
