When to go.
Walthamstow's running scene picks up between March and October, with Walthamstow Runners and Run Dem Crew out most weekends. Saturday parkrun runs at 9am at Hackney Marshes, a straightforward flat 5k on the way south. Walthamstow parkrun also happens at 9am on Saturdays, though it's at Peter May Sports Ground on Wadham Road rather than on any of these routes.
Winter changes the routes a bit. The Wetlands close earlier, the Lea towpath gets icy in patches, and Epping muddies up from late October. A head torch and trail shoes are worth having between November and February.
Wood Street Coffee, Bühler and Co, the Engine House café at the Wetlands and Big Penny Social all sit close to one or more of these routes, if you want a reason to finish nearby.
Living nearby.
The Altham sits fifteen minutes from most of these routes, with a communal gym and lounges if you'd rather train indoors some days.
FAQs.
1. What's the best running route from The Altham?
The Walthamstow Wetlands loop is the closest and most straightforward, a flat 7km round the reservoirs with no traffic to navigate.
2. Is Walthamstow good for marathon training?
Yes. The Lea Valley towpath gives you flat, uninterrupted mileage in one direction, and Epping Forest offers proper trail and hill variation in the other.
3. Are there parkruns near Walthamstow?
Yes. Hackney Marshes hosts a 9am Saturday parkrun on the Lea Valley route. Walthamstow parkrun also runs at 9am on Saturdays, but at Peter May Sports Ground, not on the Marshes.
4. Can I run in Walthamstow Wetlands with a dog?
No, dogs aren't allowed anywhere in the Walthamstow Wetlands. If you're running with one, Walthamstow Marshes nearby is dog-friendly.
5. What's the closest trail running to Walthamstow?
Epping Forest, around 30 minutes from The Altham on the Overground's Weaver line to Chingford, with marked trails across 8,000 acres of ancient woodland.
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