Historic 10km Running Tour with Secret London Runs
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable running 10km at steady paces ranging from gentle jog to sub-11-minute miles.
Overview
Trace the footsteps of London’s condemned on a 10km running tour with Secret London Runs. Encounter chilling historic sites and stories from Tower Hill to Marble Arch on this pace-led journey steeped in crime and punishment lore.
Crime & Punishment 10km running tour
Thursdays 11th and 25th September 2025
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 10km guided running tour through London's dark history, from Tower Hill to Marble Arch. Discover the chilling tales of medieval prisons, infamous executions, and the haunting "black parade." Enjoy digital photos, a finish-line snack, and insights into the lives of those who walked this grim path.
Duration: 2 hours (can vary depending on pace and number of questions)
Join us on our 10km guided running tour from Tower Hill to Marble Arch, along which you'll uncover the most gruesome side of London's history; from the remains of notorious medieval prisons, to the sites of ghastly gallows and famous executions.
The final 4k of the tour traces the "black parade" - the final journey taken by thousands of condemned prisoners from Newgate gaol, to their exeuction at Tyburn gallows. What crimes had they committed? How did they get there? And what had they seen on the way?
Starts at: Tower Hill Station (at the entrance to Trinity Square Gardens) what3words = scouts.pits.dock
Ends at: Marble Arch
Highlights
- Length: 10 km (6 miles)
- Guide: Maxine
Includes
- Guided history tour
- digital photos
- finish-line snack
- info about the people on the tour circulated afterwards
Pace
Both dates have a guide pace - please make sure before booking that you are able to run at the pace that you are booking for.
Thursday 11th September at 6.30pm - sub 11 minute miles Thursday 25th September at 6.30pm - gentler than 11 minute miles
Meeting Point
London EC3N 1JL, United Kingdom Tower Hill Station (at the entrance to Trinity Square Gardens)
Adventure Tips
Maintain Your Pace
Choose a tour date that matches your running pace—either sub 11-minute miles or a gentler pace—to ensure comfort throughout the 10km.
Wear Comfortable Running Shoes
London’s urban terrain includes cobblestones and pavement, so opt for supportive shoes with good grip.
Stay Hydrated
Carry a small water bottle or plan to hydrate before the run, as water stops are limited on this city route.
Bring a Light Headlamp for Evening Runs
If running in the early evening during darker months, a headlamp enhances visibility on shadowed paths.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban pigeons flitting around city parks
- Grey squirrels in green spaces
History
The route follows the path known as the 'black parade,' the last journey from Newgate Gaol to the Tyburn gallows used until 1783.
Conservation
The tour promotes walking and running as low-impact ways to engage with urban heritage, encouraging sustainable tourism in London's historic districts.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Running Shoes
Supportive shoes with good traction will handle the mix of pavement and cobblestone surfaces.
Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
Protects against intermittent rain and chilly winds common on London runs.
spring|fall|winter specific
Reflective Gear
Enhances visibility during runs that extend into dusk or low-light conditions.
fall|winter|spring specific
Hydration Pack or Bottle
Keeps you hydrated along the route where water stops are scarce.
summer|null specific