London's calendar may be packed with traditional running marathons during the summer months, but this weekend offers a refreshing alternative for those seeking achievement without the sprint. The Ultra Challenge London Winter Walk presents marathon and half-marathon distances with one fundamental rule: running and jogging are strictly prohibited.
A Walking-Only Challenge for All Abilities
Taking place on Saturday, January 24, and Sunday, January 25, this unique event transforms marathon completion into an accessible goal for participants of varying fitness levels. While summer events often cater to elite athletes and dedicated runners, the Winter Walk welcomes walkers who wish to conquer significant distances at their own pace.
Multiple Distance Options Available
The event offers four distinct distance categories to accommodate different capabilities and ambitions:
- Full marathon: A 26-mile (42km) challenge
- Half marathon: 13 miles (21km) of walking
- 10km walk: 6.2 miles for those seeking a moderate challenge
- Family Fun 5k: A new 3-mile option specifically designed for beginners, children, and elderly participants
The Oval Cricket Ground as Central Hub
All events share the same start and finish location at The Oval Cricket Ground in Kennington, south London. This historic cricket stadium, home to Surrey County Cricket Club, provides an impressive backdrop for both the beginning and conclusion of each walking route.
The venue's sustainable architecture features a notable 200-meter long living wall of climbing plants, creating an environmentally conscious setting for the event's participants.
Detailed Route Information
The full marathon follows a carefully designed looped course that showcases London's riverside scenery. Participants begin their journey with an eastward route along the Thames, reaching a rest stop at Surrey Quays where hot drinks and snacks await. After returning along the north bank for lunch at The Oval, walkers embark on a westward loop with another rest stop in Parsons Green before completing their challenge back at the cricket ground.
Half-marathon participants can choose between the western loop toward Parsons Green or the eastern route to Surrey Quays, while 10km walkers enjoy a shorter circuit starting and finishing at The Oval.
Practical Event Details
Registration for the London Winter Walk begins at £39 for the shorter distances, with varying start times throughout the weekend. The full marathon offers 8am and 10am starts on both Saturday and Sunday, while half-marathon participants can begin at 9am or 12pm. The 10km walk commences at 11am and 12pm, and the Family Fun 5k takes place exclusively on Sunday at midday.
Organizers have implemented comprehensive support systems including regular rest stops with refreshments, toilet facilities, and medical personnel on standby throughout all routes. The Family Fun walk particularly emphasizes accessibility with frequent breaks designed to accommodate participants who may need additional support.
This innovative approach to marathon events demonstrates how physical challenges can be made inclusive while maintaining the sense of accomplishment associated with completing significant distances. By removing the pressure to run, the London Winter Walk opens marathon participation to a much broader demographic of Londoners and visitors alike.
