Thames Meander Summer

Richmond, United Kingdom • 9 Aug 2026

Event overview

Thames Meander is a riverside running series that follows the Thames Path on out-and-back routes between the Barnes area and Petersham. The events use towpath and trail surfaces and are shared with members of the public, including cyclists and walkers. The course is described as well marked and marshalled, with checkpoint positions along the route and professional medical cover provided by KLP Medics. Checkpoints are reported to offer a selection of high-energy foods, gels, drinks and electrolyte powders.

Distances, entries and facilities

  • 10 km - a single out-and-back lap to Kew Gardens Car Park (Check Point 2).
  • Half Marathon (13.1 miles) - one out-and-back loop with a turnaround near Barnes (opposite Barnes Sports Club, Check Point 3).
  • Marathon - two 13.1 mile out-and-back loops to the same turnaround as the half marathon.

Entry details: the 10 km and half marathon are open to entrants aged 17 to 80 on the event date; the marathon is open to entrants aged 18 to 80. Typical entry fees are shown as £33-£35 for the 10 km, £43-£45 for the half marathon, and £53-£55 for the marathon. Check Point locations include Small Profit Dock Gardens (Barnes), Kew Gardens Car Park (Ferry Lane), and Petersham & Ham Sea Scouts (Douglas House Meadow). The route surface is mainly towpath and gravel, which can be uneven in places. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

26 mi
Marathon
13 mi
Half Marathon
10 km
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Support Hospice of St Francis at the Wild Christmas Charity Run, a guided 8km trail or 4km family walk from Church Farm Cafe. Enjoy a mince pie with entry, optional fancy dress and limited places so book early.

Run a scenic 50k through the Surrey Hills on a fully signed out and back trail with food stations and live timing. Friendly for newcomers to ultras yet rewarding for seasoned trail runners.

UTMB Index

Join the Christmas Cracker at Newlands Corner on 7 December for pantomime themed family score orienteering and colour coded Orange Green and Blue courses. Guildford Orienteers will provide festive refreshments and friendly guidance.

Join the Phoenix Running Bobble Wobble Run at Crystal Palace Park for a timed multi lap challenge on park trails. Run as many 1.65 mile laps as you can in seven hours and collect a finishers medal and Phoenix bobble hat.