Christmas Lights 10k Running Tour by Secret London Runs
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be able to comfortably run 10k with brief walking breaks and keep pace with a group at varying speeds.
Overview
Run through London’s festive heart on a guided 10k tour featuring iconic holiday lights and historic landmarks. Perfect for runners of all paces wanting a unique seasonal adventure.
Christmas lights in the City 10k running tour
Run through the twinkling City of London at Christmastime
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About This Adventure
Experience the magic of Christmas in London with a unique 10k guided run through the city's festive highlights. Discover stunning light displays, including the breathtaking tree at Leadenhall Market and the enchanting River Thames. Enjoy festive tunes, photo opportunities, and a pace that suits every runner, ensuring no one gets left behind.
This Christmas lights route is a glittering alternative to our Classic Christmas lights run.
Away from the crowds of Mayfair and the West End, your Christmas-loving guide will take you on a magical journey through the old City of London and Borough at its festive best.
From the jaw-dropping tree of Leadenhall Market, to the magical lights displays along the River Thames and a tribute to the creator of the Christmas cracker, this tour is bound to get you in the Christmas spirit this year.
What's included?#
- A guided 10k run of festive London
- Festive tunes as you go-ho-ho
- Loads of photo ops
- 2 hours of free bag storage
Highlights#
- Borough Market
- Leadenhall Market
- Tower Bridge
- The Royal Exchange
- The Hay Galleria
- St Paul's Cathedral
- And so many more
Where to meet#
The tour starts and ends at the Southwark Gateway Obelisk at the intersection of Duke Street Hill and London Bridge, near London Bridge station.
No one gets left behind#
This is a running tour, not a race. We run at the pace of the gentlest runner among us and we don't leave anyone behind. That said, please make sure that you're able to run 10k at the pace advertised (with breathers) for the enjoyment of the other runners.
Pace#
Each tour has a guide pace to keep you in your comfort zone. The tour contain stops along the way for photos and festive history, but please select the pace that you usually run at:
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Festively fast: for those who usually run sub-10 minute miles (you usually run 10k in under 1 hour). Wednesday 26th November - 6.30pm Saturday 6th December - 4pm
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Merrily medium: for those who usually run 10-12 minute miles (you usually run 10k in just over 1 hour - 1 hour 15 minutes). aturday 22nd November - 6.30pm Sunday 23rd November - 4pm Sunday 30th November - 4pm Tuesday 9th December - 7pm Monday 15th December - 6.30pm Saturday 20th December - 4pm
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Gentle jingle: for those who usually run 12-13 minute miles (you usually run 10k in 1 hour 15 minutes - 1 hour 20 minutes. Saturday 22nd November - 4pm Friday 28th November - 6.30pm Saturday 29th November - 6.30pm Thursday 4th December - 4pm Saturday 6th December - 6.30pm Saturday 13th December - 4pm Tuesday 16th December - 6.30pm
Will we stop at the lights?#
Yes - we stop to admire the lights, take photos and give you a little bit of festive history too.
What to wear#
Festive fancy dress very much encouraged.
Adventure Tips
Pace Yourself
Choose a pace category that matches your fitness – the tour runs at the slowest runner’s pace to keep groups together.
Wear Reflective Gear
Evening light and winter dusk mean high visibility clothing ensures safety throughout the run.
Bring a Camera or Phone
There are multiple stops for photos at stunning light displays and iconic city views—don’t miss capturing the moment.
Dress for the Weather
London winters can be chilly and damp; layers and breathable fabrics keep you comfortable on this urban run.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban red foxes at dusk
- Resident river birds along the Thames including swans and seagulls
History
Leadenhall Market dates back to the 14th century and remains one of London’s oldest markets, beautifully preserved and decorated during Christmas.
Conservation
Secret London Runs encourages low-impact urban adventure by promoting foot travel and awareness of London’s historic and public spaces.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reflective Running Jacket
Ensures visibility during low-light festive evening runs through the city.
winter specific
Running Shoes with Good Grip
Provides stability on urban pavements that might be wet or uneven.
Moisture-Wicking Base Layers
Keeps you dry and comfortable during cooler runs with variable weather.
fall specific
Compact Headlamp or Clip-On Light
Adds extra visibility and safety during early nightfall or dim areas.
winter specific