Are you local to Thamesmead or Woolwich? You can start your weekend right by heading down to the newest location on the parkrun map where you can walk, run or jog a 5k route. Parkrun is a free, weekly run or walk for people of all abilities.  

In collaboration with Parkrun, Peabody, Berkeley Homes and Woolwich Exchange, the Royal Borough of Greenwich is bringing a fourth course to the borough. Other locations already on the map are Sutcliffe Park, Charlton Park and Avery Hill Park.  

Cllr Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities said: “When we set our plans for the next four years through Our Greenwich, we committed to supporting people’s health allowing them to live their best life.  

We already know that exercising, especially outdoors can do amazing things for our mental and physical health. Whatever your fitness level, there is no better time to start making a new active habit than right now, along the riverfront in the sunshine.” 

Almost 350 parkrunners joined the starting line at the Royal Arsenal on Saturday. The run stretches along the Thames Path and into Peabody’s Gallions Park where runners and walkers reverse on themselves before finishing back outside Woolwich Works – the perfect spot for a finale coffee! 

Desiree Shepherd, Peabody’s Public Realm & Landscape Manager for Thamesmead, said: “The introduction of a local Parkrun means that more people get to enjoy Thamesmead’s incredible green spaces, all year round, while doing something that encourages them to stay active. We’re continuously working to enhance the local landscape so that people can spend more time outdoors to stay fit and healthy and are really pleased that we’ve been able to help bring Parkrun to Thamesmead.” 

With access from the Elizabeth Line, the Thames Path parkrun will surely be seeing some fresh-faced runners and walkers joining the new parkrun location. Participants will also be able to track their run and beat their best time every week. 

Karl Whiteman, Divisional Managing Director for Berkeley, said: “It is great to hear that so many people from our community and further afield are participating at this new parkrun event. In addition to the physical health benefits, group exercise activities like this provide people the chance to create new social connections through a shared interest. I hope all of those taking part enjoy the wonderful river views as they pass through Royal Arsenal Riverside and the volunteers who give up their time to make the run a success.” 

Run the riverfront every Saturday at 9am by registering for free. Parkruns are also open to volunteers who support event management. If you want to help keep spirits high and runners in line, get in touch via the link above.  

John Hughes, Group Director of Development and Sales and Deputy Chief Executive at Notting Hill Genesis, said: “It’s been terrific to see the hard work and commitment that local organisers and volunteers have put in to make Parkrun in Woolwich a reality.  We’re delighted to have played a small part in supporting London’s newest Parkrun route and look forward to seeing it grow and flourish under the stewardship of the Woolwich community.”