The best running trails around the London Borough Of Merton

The London Borough of Merton offers a wide selection of outdoor running opportunities, with over 130 routes available on komoot. These range from easy, flat paths to more challenging, undulating trails across its expansive green spaces.

Merton's running trails feature a diverse terrain. You'll find everything from the undulating woods and heathland of Wimbledon Common to the mostly flat grassland and wooded paths of Mitcham Common. Morden Hall Park offers a mix of grass and paved paths, while the Wandle Trail follows a generally flat river course. Some areas, particularly on the commons, can be muddy in winter.

Yes, Merton has several easy and moderate routes suitable for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed run. Morden Hall Park, for instance, offers generally flat paths. A popular moderate option is the Morden Hall Park Approach loop from Colliers Wood, which is about 6.9 km long. The borough features 7 easy routes and 112 moderate routes, providing plenty of accessible options.

For scenic runs, Wimbledon Common offers a beautiful 'English countryside' feel with its woods, heathland, and ponds. The Wimbledon Common and Windmill Loop is a great choice, passing the iconic Wimbledon Windmill. Mitcham Common provides serene natural settings with nature trails framed by trees and wildflowers, while the Wandle Trail offers picturesque views along the River Wandle.

Yes, many of the running routes in Merton are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Queensmere Pond – Wimbledon Windmill and Museum loop from Roehampton, which is 8.3 km, and the Morden Hall Park Approach loop from Colliers Wood, at 6.9 km.

Along Merton's running routes, you can discover several interesting landmarks and natural features. On Wimbledon Common, you'll find the historic Wimbledon Windmill and Museum. Morden Hall Park, a National Trust property, offers beautiful gardens and the River Wandle. The River Wandle Path and Wandle Trail — Watermeads Nature Reserve provide opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying the area's heritage.

Many of Merton's green spaces are family-friendly. Morden Hall Park, with its generally flat paths and open spaces, is ideal for leisurely jogs with children. Mitcham Common also offers accessible trails. The borough's parks often feature 'trim trails' with free exercise equipment, which can add an engaging element to a family run.

The running routes in the London Borough of Merton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 31 reviews. Runners frequently praise the diverse green spaces, the feeling of being in the countryside within London, and the variety of terrain available, from flat river paths to undulating commonland.

Most of the large green spaces in Merton, such as Wimbledon Common, Mitcham Common, and Morden Hall Park, are dog-friendly, making them excellent choices for running with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is under control and be mindful of local regulations regarding leads, especially in nature reserve areas or near wildlife.

Yes, for those looking for longer runs, Merton offers several challenging options. The Pen Ponds – Pet's Picnic Cafe loop from Wimbledon is a difficult 20.1 km (12.5 miles) route with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Pet's Picnic Cafe – Pond View loop from South Wimbledon, covering 17.3 km (10.7 miles).

Merton's green spaces are generally well-connected by public transport. Many parks, like Morden Hall Park, are located near Tube or tram stations. Wimbledon Common is also easily accessible, and the Wandle Trail runs through various urban areas, making sections reachable via different transport links. This makes it convenient to access a wide range of running trails without needing a car.

Yes, you can find routes suitable for 5k and 10k distances. Mitcham Common, for example, has a popular 5km route known as the 'Twice Around Mitcham Common Run,' and designated lap courses that can be extended to 6km or 9km. For a 5k option, the Path Through Morden Hall Park – Morden Hall Park path loop from Colliers Wood is approximately 5.3 km.