During the biggest heat wave since 1976, twelve cool runners took to the streets of central London, dodging though commuters and negotiating a path towards our city's finest landmarks.

Our group this week were from far flung places, such as Columbia, New York, Germany and Singapore, so our little bit of sunshine didn't faze them (though I was asked why we don't have air conditioning. Not sure how my advice to stand in the supermarket went down, but really, it's so refreshing!). We took the scenic route, weaving our way through flagging office workers, set on a path towards the train, past post-work drinkers, sipping cool spritzers and brushing by theatre-goers, gearing themselves up for an evening of slightly stifling West End entertainment. Along the Embankment and towards Trafalgar Square we ran, down The Mall, where we discussed whether British people walk on one side of the pavement (nope, it's every (wo)man for (her)himself here, though it would be marvellous if people did adopt a one-side policy wouldn't it?). Here we paused, taking some touristy photos and wondering if the Queen was having her dinner after a busy day in parliament.

Turning down Birdcage Walk, in the opposite direction to all those London Marathon runners back in April, we headed to Parliament Square ourselves, where we were suddenly at the front of a protest march, banners being waved towards us and the line of police, the many sides of London being encountered on this run! A quick Big Ben pic and we ran away over Westminster Bridge, to enjoy the Southbank. I felt very proud pointing out all the amazing buildings along the way, 'And we even have our own beach when the tide is low, look!' A quick gesture towards Tate Modern and a tip to go up to the viewing area in the new extension, incredible views can be seen in all directions, do it!

With everyone doing really well in this heat, we took on the Millennium Bridge towards St Paul's Cathedral and headed home and into some welcome shade, having covered 8 very sticky kilometres. Time to stretch and talk about next week. Most hands went up, so I look forward to seeing you again for some more speedy London exploration - I loved the suggestion of including a boat ride, but maybe we'll stick to pavements!