Epic Journey: Solo 100K Run from South East London to Windsor

Last month, coinciding with the London Marathon, I embarked on an ambitious solo adventure: a self-supported 100-kilometer run from Greenwich in South East London to Windsor. The day was perfect for a long-distance challenge, and I intended to make the most of it.

With the roads closed for the marathon festivities, I took advantage of the early morning tranquility, weaving through parts of the route typically bustling with activity. The course led me along the picturesque Thames Path, taking me through charming towns such as Weybridge, Chertsey, and Staines, eventually arriving at my destination—Windsor, though the closest stop was actually Slough thanks to the Lizzie Line.

One of the standout sections of my journey was the stretch between Kingston and Weybridge. The scenery was nothing short of breathtaking, and it was a reminder of why I love running through this region. Another memorable moment occurred while I tackled the iconic Long Walk in Windsor; despite feeling a bit lightheaded from dehydration, the experience was exhilarating in its own unique way.

For this endeavor, I opted for the On Cloudgo shoes. However, I quickly learned that they aren’t the best for long distances beyond 20 miles, leading to some discomfort along the way. Consider this a hard-earned lesson for future runs!

According to my Garmin, I burned an impressive 6,200 calories—equivalent to about 12 Big Macs—and lost approximately 9 liters of sweat. My overall pace hovered around 6:15 minutes per kilometer, but that included numerous stops to refuel, use restrooms, and capture the stunning views along the route.

If you’re considering a similar journey, whether by running, walking, or biking, I would highly recommend this route. It offers a fantastic blend of beautiful landscapes and a sense of adventure that’s hard to beat. Gear up, lace your shoes, and embark on an unforgettable experience!