We spent the weekend near Stratford, London and my nearest Parkrun was Wanstead Flats.
It was a short 15 minute slow run to the playing fields from my hotel in Stratford.
WANSTEAD FLATS PARKRUN REVIEW
FINDING WANSTEAD FLATS
The event takes place at Wanstead Flats Playing Fields, Harrow Road, London, E11 3QA.
It is easily accessible by public transport, with Leytonstone High Road (Overground) and Leytonstone (Central Line) stations nearby.
Several bus routes stop at Dames Road a short distance from the start.
Payable parking is available about 1km from the start, and there are bike racks for cyclists but as with most London Parkruns it is easier to use public transport than drive.
MEETING POINT FOR RACE BRIEFING
The meeting point is at the Harrow Road Changing Pavilion on the western side of the Playing Fields.
Look for the two prominent apartment blocks as landmarks; head towards these and you will find the gathering spot where volunteers and participants convene before the start.
COURSE
The course consists of two laps, each approximately 2.5 kilometres, featuring a mixture of grass and hard path.
The terrain is generally flat, though underfoot conditions can vary: after rain, sections may become muddy, so trail shoes are recommended in wet weather.
The run passes through open parkland, beneath trees, and patches of woodland, including a magical area known locally as the “Narnia Lamppost.”
The open sections make the route fast when dry, but I would imagine in the winter it offers little shelter from the elements and the course could be quite muddy.
START
The start is directly in front of the Harrow Road Pavilion. Runners gather en masse for a wide start on grass that can be somewhat bare due to frequent use.
The first straight is short, connecting quickly to the main loop, which then guides runners around the northern and southern borders of the playing fields.
FINISH
After two complete laps, the finish is located close to the starting area, near the pavilion.
The final 100 metres is a short connecting segment which is slightly downhill, making for a fast sprint to the finish funnel.
Efficient volunteers are on hand to scan barcodes and provide encouragement at the end.
TOILETS
Public toilets are available at the Harrow Road Pavilion, immediately adjacent to the meeting point and start area.
COFFEE
I did not stick around but I believe there are refreshments in the Pavilion afterwards.
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 Wanstead Flats Parkrun HERE
WOULD I DO IT AGAIN?
Yes. I don't do many trail events and it made a nice change from tarmac paths.
THINGS TO BEAR IN MIND
- Parts of the course can become muddy or accumulate puddles, especially after rain, so trail shoes are advised in winter or wet conditions.
- There is no café on site, but occasionally refreshments are offered by volunteers at the pavilion.
- Give way to other park users, as paths are shared.
KIT
I wore the following race day kit:
- Soar Running Eco T-shirt
- Nike Trail Half Tights
- Puma Deviate Nitrate Elite 3 shoes
- SHYU socks
- Coros Pace 3 Watch
QUESTIONS
If you have any questions you would like to ask about the Wanstead Flats Parkrun, please get in touch.
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