Area Activator Simon took a crew of intrepid Goodgymmers from all across the London boroughs for a special 7.5 mile and 2.8 mile run through some of the most beautifully Christmassy areas of London. Starting at The Running Works in Houndsditch, Aldgate (where Simon works - www.therunningworks.net) by a lovely tree, we made our way down to the Thames Path via the Tower of London and within sight of The Shard with its festive lighting display.

The Thames Riverside Path proved to be easy to navigate and clear of snow and ice (a concern in the lead up to this run), and we continued to Big Ben on Westminster bridge, just in time to hear it chime (a rarity, as the bells have been changed and the scaffolding has finally been taken down). Along Bird Cage Walk (famous for the London Marathon), we approached Buckingham Palace, and met up with Kim and Emily at Green Park Station (who successfully kept warm while waiting for us!).

After avoiding some of the crowds on their way to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, we ran together towards Knightsbridge and then over to The Royal Albert Hall concert house (lit up for seasonal performances), and along the lush firm snow lined terraces of horse guards parade (past the King Albert memorial too). Upon our arrival to King's Gate, we turned into Kensington and finished our run outside the Churchill Arms, an incredibly decorated pub full of Xmas cheer. Congratulations folks, looking forward to more group runs next year!