Bushy parkrun, located in the picturesque Bushy Park, Teddington, is a must-visit for any parkrunner.
Established in 2004, it is the original and largest parkrun in the UK, attracting thousands of participants each week.
The event is renowned for its efficient organisation and vibrant atmosphere, making it a true pilgrimage for enthusiasts.
BUSHY PARK PARKRUN REVIEW
FINDING BUSHY PARK
To reach Bushy Park, you can use public transport by alighting at Hampton Court, Teddington, or Hampton Wick railway stations, all of which are less than 2 km from the start.
Alternatively, walking or cycling are excellent options, with cycle parking available near the Diana Fountain car park and The Pheasantry Cafe.
If driving, consider car-sharing to reduce environmental impact, and arrive early as parking can fill up quickly
MEETING POINT FOR RACE BRIEFING
Opposite the children's playground you will see a pile of logs and the standard pop up Parkrun flags.
Your see the run director in a high viz pink jacket.
Briefings are conducted via a PA system to ensure all participants can hear clearly.
COURSE
The Bushy parkrun course is a fast and flat route, primarily on footpaths and grass. It begins near the Diana Fountain, running anticlockwise through the park.
The terrain includes a mix of surfaces, with some sections potentially becoming muddy after rain.
The course is well-marked and marshalled, ensuring a smooth experience for runners.
Notable features include passing by the Leg of Mutton Pond and crossing a small bridge near Heron Pond.
START
The wide start line accommodates the large number of runners, reducing congestion at the beginning.
Your best to go to the far left or far right of the start line as you have to avoid the pile of logs.
On the far right your benefit from running on the tarmac path but it is start like no other you will of experienced at Parkrun with circa 1500+ runners every week making it quite congested.
FINISH
The finish is located near the start, with a well-organised funnel to manage the high volume of participants.
The multi tunnel funnel is something else you will not experience at other Parkruns due to the amount of people taking part and around 30 volunteers to manage it.
TOILETS
Toilets are conveniently located near the start, adjacent to the children's playground, and are open before the run begins.
Additional toilets are available at The Pheasantry Cafe.
COFFEE
The post run coffee takes place in The Pheasantry cafe in the park and is a short walk from the finish area.
It does get really busy so do bear in mind there are several hotels at the entrance of Bushy Park that offer breakfast as well.
COST
The cost of Parkrun is FREE. You just need to register and take your barcode to register your time.
RESULTS
You can find the latest results for Bushy Park Parkrun HERE
WOULD I DO IT AGAIN?
Yes, I have done it 3 or 4 times now and love it just for the experience.
You can't beat the buzz of the start that feels like your in a migration of Wilderbeasts and the super funnels at the end that are run like a military operation.
Whether you're a seasoned parkrunner or just starting out, Bushy Parkrun is a must visit destination that promises a memorable Saturday morning run.
THINGS TO BEAR IN MIND
- It is the original Parkrun and has lots of people taking part, often 1500+ runners.
- On special anniversary events expect even more people. At the 1000th Parkrun their were 6000+ people!
- During the wet months the grass areas can become quite muddy.
- You may see Deer and other wildlife in the park. They are quite use to people but do not approach them.
WHERE TO STAY
I have previously stayed at the Mitre Hotel at Hampton Court and can fully recommend it. It is only a short walk to the entrance of Bushy Park.
KIT
I wore the following race day kit:
QUESTIONS
If you have any questions you would like to ask about the Bushy Park Parkrun, please get in touch.
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