Running along tarmac roads can get pretty dull and miserable, but unfortunately, running through a field of flowers instead, is going to end up with the poor things being trampled. There is an alternative though. A run through Kew Gardens gives you the best of both worlds - proper paths and beautiful scenery.
Now I don't suggest you do this on any old day of the year - you might get a few stares - but the
Richmond Running Festival is on the 21st September, and it is the perfect opportunity for families to get fit, raise money for charity, and a visit to the town's most popular attraction.
Last year participants raised £10,000 for the
Mo Farah Foundation and Shooting Star Chase. 10% of all entry fees will go towards their two supported charities, which this year includes the Mo Farah Foundation and
Poppy Factory.
There are three race options:
10 KM Run8.30am, 17 years plus, £34 or £26 concessions
Half Marathon, £24 or £21 concessions
Kids' Mile12pm, under 15s, £5
The terrain is a mix of road, towpath, and grass. There will be water stations every three miles, and you will be timed. Everyone who enters will get a Nike t-shirt, medal, and free beer (okay, the kids don't get beer).
If you are not running, but cheering your friends on, then why not go to the Richmond Fitness Expo in Old Deer Park. This is also the finishing line of all the runners, so you can be there to congratulate them when they arrive. The expo will include live bands, food stalls, children entertainment, and a double decker Bus Bar.