Run Through London's Christmas Lights: Classic 5k Festive Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners to casual runners; comfortable jogging pace throughout
Overview
Celebrate the holidays with a refreshing 5k running tour through London's iconic Christmas lights in Mayfair and the West End. Enjoy festive tunes, photo stops, and a gentle pace perfect for all runners and walkers.
Classic 5k Christmas lights running tour
Jingle all the 5k through London's Christmas lights
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About This Adventure
Experience the magic of Christmas in London with Secret London Runs! Join a festive 5k tour through Mayfair and the West End, illuminated by dazzling lights and enchanting window displays. Enjoy festive tunes, photo opportunities, and a gentle pace that ensures everyone can celebrate the season together.
Join Secret London Runs as we run through London's Christmas lights, trees, and window displays with festive tunes pumping as you go ho ho, on a brand new route for 2025.
Back for its 10th edition, jingle all the 5k through Mayfair and the West End at its festive best, choosing from a range of dates at a pace that you're comfortable with.
What's included#
Celebrate Christmas with a magical 5k running tour of London's lights, trees and window displays in Mayfair and the West End. Your ticket includes:
- Christmas-loving run guide
- A 5k run through the main lights displays in the West End and Mayfair
- Festive tunes as you go-ho-ho
- Loads of photo ops
Highlights#
- Carnaby Street
- Regent Street
- Annabel's nightclub
- New Bond Street
- And so many more
Where to meet#
The tour starts in Charing Cross station, which has the best free public toilets in London! Meet us near the water fountain inside the 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 5k at the pace advertised (with breathers) for the enjoyment of the other runners. All 5k tours are at our 'gentle jingle' pace (12-13 minute miles).
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
Dress in layers for winter runs
Temperatures can be chilly, so layering allows you to adjust as you warm up.
Use reflective gear
Ensure visibility in early evening or night runs through city streets with bright, reflective clothing.
Carry a small water bottle
Though running a short distance, staying hydrated helps maintain comfort during winter activity.
Watch your footing
Winter weather can bring slick patches; slow down in areas with wet or icy pavement.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban birds like pigeons and sparrows
- Occasional sightings of urban foxes in quieter nearby parks
History
London’s Christmas lights tradition dates back over 100 years, originally inspired by New York’s holiday displays and quickly becoming a cherished city-wide event.
Conservation
Organizers encourage sustainable running by promoting reusable water bottles and minimizing waste during events to protect London's urban environment.
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Adventure Hotspots in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Running shoes with good grip
Provides traction and comfort on potentially slippery city sidewalks.
winter specific
Reflective jacket or vest
Enhances safety by increasing visibility during dusk or night runs.
winter specific
Moisture-wicking base layer
Keeps you dry and warm by managing sweat on colder evenings.
winter specific
Lightweight gloves and hat
Protects extremities from cold without overheating during the run.
winter specific