River Thames Half Marathon – Course & Landmark Overview
The River Thames Half Marathon is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of southwest London and Surrey’s riverside beauty and engineering heritage. Following a flat, fast, and scenic route, runners journey along the River Thames towpath past locks, bridges, and tranquil green spaces steeped in history. Here’s a highlight of what you’ll experience along the way:
Millennium Bridge (Walton-on-Thames)
Runners start the race on the elegant Walton Millennium Bridge—a striking steel and timber footbridge linking Walton with Weybridge. Opened in 1999 to mark the turn of the millennium, it replaced a chain ferry and celebrates both modern engineering and the enduring importance of river crossings. The finish line is also on the embankment by the bridge.
Sunbury Weir
Dating back to the early 1800s, Sunbury Weir is a dramatic sight—and sound—along the Thames. The tumbling white water, created by a complex arrangement of sluices and gates, is a reminder of how the river has long been shaped and managed for navigation and flood control. The structure helps feed Sunbury Lock, just a stone’s throw away, and remains a favourite for photographers, paddlers, and sweaty runners.
Sunbury Lock
Part of the river’s essential lock system, Sunbury Lock has been guiding vessels through this stretch of the Thames since the early 19th century. The current lock is flanked by green lawns and shaded paths, making it a serene marker on the course.
Hampton Court Bridge
After 8miles, runners turn around just before Hampton Court Bridge, where the views of Hampton Court Palace can be found looking through the arches. The current bridge—completed in 1933—is the fourth on this site and features distinctive red brickwork and Portland stone.
Molesey Lock
One of the busiest locks on the Thames, Molesey Lock was first constructed in 1815 and modernised in 1906.
Hurst Park
The course winds along the leafy paths of Hurst Park—a former racecourse that has gracefully transformed into a beloved community green space. Once renowned for thundering hooves until 1962, on race day this historic venue comes alive with the spirited pursuit of a very different kind of race—one contested by two-legged competitors driven by passion and perseverance.
