Virtual Winter Run
COVID Plan
Safety measures in place ·
This event has passed, here are some recommended events:
This event has passed, here are some recommended events:
Event summary
The UK’s most popular 10k has gone digital and it’s completely FREE to register! Run anytime from anywhere and complete challenges and earn prizes in the build up to the main event. Get active and enjoy the community feeling by supporting Cancer Research UK, even if we can’t all be together.
Your organiser
Human Race is the UK’s leading mass participation events company, putting on over 30 events each year in triathlon, cycling, running, duathlon and open water swimming. Part of Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.), owners of Le Tour de France and the leader in the French running and sportive market, Human Race’s prestigious portfolio includes the Royal Windsor Triathlon, Dragon Ride, Cancer Research UK London Winter Run and the Manchester Marathon.
How to enter
Tickets available until Fri Jan 01 2021
What's included:
- Rewards badges
- Prizes for hitting fundraising goals
- Helping further an awesome cause
10k
10:00am Sun 7th Feb 2021
Run 10km
Benefits of booking with Let's Do This
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What people think
4.8114 reviews
Friendly atmosphere
Good for beginners
Well organized
Great course for enjoying closed streets in central London, can get a little crowded at times but overall its more about the setting than the race. A Trafalgar Sq start is brilliant. Bag check well organised. Walk from finish line back to bag check was a little chilly though...… read more
Frequently asked questions
How do I upload the evidence of my runs for the Virtual Winter Run?
Your runs will automatically upload when you have connected your fitness app to your profile on the event website's dashboard. Alternatively you can manually log your runs too, so don't worry, all your hard work will be counted.… read moreThe challenges weren't live when I started logging my runs for the Virtual Winter Run, will my activity still count towards them?
Yes, all activity you have logged will count towards all of the badges, even if the badge wasn't live when you completed the challenge!… read moreHow do I find the leaderboard for the Virtual Winter Run?
In Your Team’s profile page you will see your Team Leaderboard where you can search for individuals as well as people in your local area.… read moreRunning Events in the United Kingdom
Running Events in the United Kingdom
Route description
Route description
Due to the new restrictions surrounding COVID-19, it seems an in-person run isn't possible, but although you can't come together in-person...this awesome winter run has gone virtual!
Between the 22nd of November and 7th of February, EVERYONE is encouraged to lace up their running shoes and earn some awesome badges and prizes.
Entry is completely free, and runners will fundraise to earn some epic prizes on their training runs, before running the 10k distance together on the 7th of February.
Completing different challenges on training runs will earn participants a huge variety of badges, just have a look below:
- 5k Badge - Record a total of 5km over multiple runs
- 10k Badge - Record a total of 10km over multiple runs
- 20k Badge - Record a total of 20km over multiple runs to win bronze
- 50k Badge - Record a total of 50km over multiple runs to win silver
- 100k Badge - Record a total of 100km over multiple runs to win gold
- Ice Cold Badge - Log your first 3k in one go training run
- Cold Feet Badge - Record your first 5k in one training session
- Deep Freeze Badge - Cover 7km in one go
- Friluftsliv Badge - By logging you first run, you are living the Norwegian life!
- Ice Bath Badge - Log your event day distance of 10km on a training run
- 12 Days of Christmas Badge - Keep activity after Christmas indulgence
Any running activity you log from the point of sign up will count towards the badges when they are live, so get started with some runs today!
LOVED this event!! Such a fab atmosphere. Bag drop was straight forward, lots of toilets at the start. Great course and lots going on throughout - bands, choirs, lots of cheering. Fab race
Well organised but would love the option of toilets near the start of the course so you don't need a pee before it starts!
Great course for enjoying closed streets in central London, can get a little crowded at times but overall its more about the setting than the race. A Trafalgar Sq start is brilliant. Bag check well organised. Walk from finish line back to bag check was a little chilly though...
Top tips for race day: The Nuffield Health tent was right in the centre of Trafalgar Sq and had massive blower heaters (an amazing find to warm up afterwards!) and they were giving away free hot chocolate.Would really suggest bringing a little foil blanket (theyre 10cmx10cm folded and you can get them in any running shop and foil is v easily recycled). Keep it with you for the start pens, then fold it back up and tuck it into your belt or pop it in your armband for when you finish. There is a little walk back past Horse Guards to bag drop at Traf sq where it got a little chilly and would have been great to have a little foil blanket. I cant recommend this race highly enough. Its very well organised; bag drop was quick to drop off and collect, the start line was efficient and they really pulled out all the stops. There were people dressed like penguins, huskies and 10ft polar bears all around the course giving high fives. There were bands, buskers and choirs, even the church bells were in full swing all through central London. 20,000 people run this race every year and I just assumed like other races this size, the route would be super crowded. But, due to incredible organisation and timing the course was clear for everyone. Loads of us even managed to get PBs! This is surely unheard of in a race this size. The route is right through the centre of London on completely closed roads with an incredible start right on Trafalgar Square. There was so much going on along the route that I didnt even realise wed got to mile 5 until I saw the banner, no wonder I got a PB! You definitely wont need your headphones. It was so much fun, I cant wait to run it again next year. The start/finish area is located here as well, and there was a massive stage in front of the National Gallery with bands performing all morning. The atmosphere through the whole race was just electric, so many smiles and a lot of happiness as runners raised money for an incredible cause.
I have ran this the last 3 years and love it. This year I introduced my bro in law and sister to it and then couldnt believe how well organised it is..which it is!It did for some reason feel a bit emptier this year but maybe thats cause I was in first wave. A communal warm up in tra square would be awesome rather then everyone trying to do it boxed in in the pens. Keep it up!!
I have ran this race 3 years in a row and each year it has been wonderfully organised and one of the best 10k races in London. The course is perfect for a PB or also perfect for those just looking to enjoy a nice race.
C
Christopher5.0
Did the 10k in 2018Ive been running this event every year since the inaugural in 2015 and its been getting better year on year. Its always freezing, so wear layers but everything else is just great.
Have warm clothing at the start and end. The tall buildings disrupt GPS so your watch readings may be wrong, save something in the tank in case your GPS distance doesnt match actual, my final watch distance was 10.9km.
I really enjoyed running London winter run 2018 what a great day well organized and a big shout to the volunteers and organizers see you next year
A great flat, fast course with plenty of support along the way! Running through Central London on a Sunday morning with closed roads is surreal but at the same time fantastic. I would highly recommend this race to others - other than the course it is also for a great charity!
There were no expectations on the race itself as the day before had been about food and drink. Just go out and enjoy it, glad I had that mentality as although starting in the first wave I got caught up in a bottle neck and ended up running on the pavements for a bit. However running through my favourite places and then culminating in a 400m sprint finish with another competitor was just awesome and made up for the slow start. Highly recommend this race for anyone who wants to do a 10k for fun or seriously the support was great too, I mean how often do you get to hug a yeti? let alone during a race!?
An absolutely brilliant event. Lively, well ran, easy to get too. Will recommend & return next year. Thank you London.
My first 10k! Hard for me but a great course, loved the entertainment en route, especially the drummers. Really well organised, bag drop was fab, hot choc was amazing, support from other runners and spectators was great. Pre-information was excellent. Cant wait to do it again with my Beginners2Runners buddies - green army !!
2nd time running the Winter Run. Loved it. The atmosphere is fantastic, really energetic and buzzing. Love the flat course enabling me to go for a PB! I'll be back next year for sure.
Very good - only problem was people starting in the wrong wave - I was wave 1 starting at 9.30 and there were a lot of later waves (7 and 8) deciding to start with us meaning the first mile was spent trying to get past the slower people!
This race was great! Fantastic route and support. Ran with friends and got a personal best as well. No pacers which I liked at my last 10k at Kew. Really well organised on the day with good after race event.
Really lovely, enjoyed all the music, singers, dressed up people around the course.
I do lots of events each year but never this one - this was part of my Stag do as Im getting married next week so my 2 best men , me and my Son ran it together- everything from toilets to bag drop was really well organised with very little queuing - Marshalls were brilliant and along with a great crowd what more could you want - will definitely be back next year
Excellent organization, very good staff, fantastic atmosphere, great course!
Second year running this event, cant wait for next year. Perfect for those training for spring marathon.
Running for the 3rd consecutive year ... amazing! I love this winter run because: 1. It reminds me how great it is to be living in London (it is London after all, we should remember this); 2. I love running and running outdoor on closed streets with 16000 people (I mean, what else could you ask for)?; 3. It's a great cause!!!
I run about 20k a week and have done this and the Vitality 10k in May for quite a few years. I do it to chase a PB as it's a fast flat course, so I'm taking it seriously. It is an excellent PB course - if you can avoid getting stuck at the start. It's well organised (and has been getting better every year) with a real sense of fun. The snow cannons are disappointing every year but generally for what it's trying to be it's very well done. However, because it is trying to be "fun" it doesn't take the starting waves very seriously. The Vitality 10K in May has starting pens based on estimated time and is very strict about them. The Winter Run tries but isn't that serious about it (which is fine, it's trying to be a fun run) but it means that you can be 20 rows back from the front in the first wave and be behind people who are running a much slower pace. A friend set off at 9:39 (start waves from 9:30 -> 10:30) and passed people walking at 1k. So, if you're going for a PB you're going to have to be prepare to duck and weave for the first k or so. That's not a criticism though - as a large scale event in central London it's a great day out enjoyed by 17,000 people and I'll be back next year.
Great event my 3rd time now and my Pb course very flat and well organised .
I'd recommend this run to anyone- from fast club runner to first timer. It was superbly organized, beginning with the acceptance that a Winter run requires preparations for freezing conditions; so the free beenies were widely used. Excellent, efficient bag area in Trafalgar Square with dozens of volunteers. Unlike the London Marathon, plenty of toilets and almost no queuing in the cold. Warm up fun for those who wanted it. A big shout to the drumming group en route- the stars of the music scene. Fun along the route (traffic free through Central London), friendly gift-givers at the end. Good results service with age categories. All in all, as close to perfect as you can get.
Always really enjoy this race. Great atmosphere, well organised, good bag drop - basically all good!
Great flat 10k course. Well supported at the start and finish areas. Very nice medal.
It was a great experience! So much bigger than i expected. Great vibe and energy all round. Loved it and will be back.
What a brilliantly organised run ! Loved the polar bears and penguins along the way. All the marshalls were so supportive! Only downside was it would have been nice to run along the Thames and over a couple of bridges to take in more of the sites but appreciate the difficulties associated with road closures etc. All in all what a FAB event - totally would recommend !
Really enjoyed running past the iconic sights on closed roads. Superb organisation.
Great event, there was issues at the start where it was crowded in the first km or so with people who were in the wrong banding. I was in the orange band but I was having to pass runners who going at a very slow pace which caused problems at the crowded start. There were no stewards checking to make sure the runners were in the correct area, everyone just seemed mixed in together
I had very tired legs at the start after skiing the week before. Turned up at the race and was instantly energised by the atmosphere and buzz around the place which certainly inspired my run and helped push me on despite my legs wanting to stop. It was very well organised on the day and there were plenty of support staff around to assist with any questions.
2nd time doing this and better organised every year. Last year was in the 2nd wave and went off with the first, no such trouble this year. Great course and great fun!
Loved every minute! It was second time doing this race and by far my favourite :)
Loved the drummers and singers - helped with the pace. Fantastic atmosphere
Really enjoyed the race..cant argue with a nice imposing, but lovely and flat London course.. race was well organised and no crowding at the start of the race..you were never in anyone elses way..hope to be there next year.
Really well organised event. Lots of support along the way and a super fast route. Well worth the journey from Northern Ireland. Would definitely recommend to others.
An amazing day, really well organised and the volunteers were awesome, will def be back in 2019
Great race. Being a Londoner I'm not sure if it makes the thrill of 'closed road London racing' any more or any less. But it's a huge privilege. Superb course, superb organisation and such a worthy cause to be running for. Top marks all round.
2nd year running. Its congested to start like any London large race event but the course is clear and safe. Well marshalled with nice novelty points along the way
Loved the whole experience. Brilliant atmosphere despite the cold and great organisation!
My second year at the London Winter 10k and best one so far. Arrived a little earlier and missed the scrum getting out of Charing Cross tube. Great atmosphere at the start. Distance markers spot on, so even though I had a rouge GPS ping for 5k, when I hit the marker I knew I was bang on target. Although there are a couple of switch-backs on the course, which upset the flow a little, the final drop down into Whitehall for the finish gives you the confidence to cane the last half k. Great Race and my official start to the year.
This was my first charity London-based Road Run. Absolutely fantastic experience. Congratulations to everyone involved. The course was clearly marked, marshalled and well-supported with mascots and music (choir/ band etc.). Free refreshments at the end were welcomed as was the 'very posh' medal. Thanks for making the occasion a special one.
Once again I had a fantastic experience at theLondon Winter Run. It's a great course on closed roads through central London, everything was well organised, from the bag drop to the number of loos available (always important!), and the volunteers were so friendly and enthusiastic despite how bitterly cold it was. A massive thank you to them, and the amazing crowds who cheered us round the whole route. I also loved the various "attractions" that they had placed at various points around the course - the Penguin Party, the Yeti Cave and the Huskies lined various points on the route to give you a big high five! The choirs were fab, but my favourite was the drumming band which, due to their location, you get to run past twice. The beating of the drums is just awesome to run to. They were my course highlight from last year, and I was so glad they were back!It's also worth pointing out that the medals we received on the day are actually substitute medals, as the "real" ones, with spinning snowflakes in the middle, got caught in customs for a couple of weeks. The real ones are due to be posted to us once they are released but I have to say, the fact that the organisers managed to sort out substitute medals which are beautiful, and of a super high quality in themselves, is very impressive. They wanted to make sure we got medals as we crossed the line which is so thoughtful, and I'm amazed that they are still going to try and get our real medals to us as well. That said, I do love a bit of race bling, and so I don't mind getting two medals for one race!Although the race is admittedly an expensive one, when you take into account the level of organisation required to pull off a closed roads event in central London for 20,000 runners, and the fact is for such a good cause, I can't really grumble too much about the entry fee. Plus, it's also evident from how the organisers dealt with the medal situation that they care about the runners and want them to have a fantastic experience. I highly recommend the London Winter Run, and I hope I'll be able to go back for 3 in a row in 2019!
One of the best organised races I have entered, great toilet access and great bag drop organisation. Very clear communication before the race and I liked being texted my result so quickly. Despite there being so many people it seems to run like clockwork. Loved all the entertainment on the course too and brilliant to run on traffic free London roads.
Great.......a fast course through central London......the final km is perfect to help grab a PB. I dipped under 40min for first time this year. This LWR kicks off the season with a bang and the anticipation keeps me motivated through December! Love it - an essential event in my calendar!!
I absolutely loved it! It was a superbly organised and fantastic course. It is definitely going to be an annual event from here on in! I have to say its one of the best 10k events I have run ! Brilliant
It was really amazing, the route was great as it really didn't feel that long! Maybe a few less 180 turns as they are always a nightmare to get around but apart from that it was a fantastic route, so well organised. The bag drop system was so quick and easy.
A well-organised event on a fast course on closed roads through the centre of London. Interesting split - 6,000 male runners, 10,000 female. Start waves so everyone gets a good run. A good cause too - and good to run it on World Cancer Day.
I have done every running of this event as I really enjoy it. Pretty sure it would be a difficult course to get a PB on but I do know people who have. i love running on closed roads in Central London and as I was trying out an injury, the flat course was ideal. Everything from the loos, yes they had loads of paper! to the baggage drop, finish line and on route entertainment was great.
Every year is always a very good experience to start the race season with the Winter Run.Amazing track and amazing people
Great race! I enter all the main races in London if I can get in and this was no exception. Completely closed roads around iconic areas and landmarks around London, minimal elevation and energetic supporters and volunteers. What's more, it's all for a great cause. What's not to like? Obviously, being a winter run, I expected it to be chilly, but nothing an extra layer couldn't fix. Would do it again.
Its a great event, with loads of volunteers and a fantastic vibe. This year the weather was perfect, which was lucky, so we were able to get a good time. The baggage drop is the most efficient for an event of this size that Ive experienced and its vital, as the temp is so cold you need assess to warm clothes. The music, bands, volunteers & dressed-up animals are a real boost as you move through the course. My main criticism is the waste of plastic bottles at the water station. Perhaps use paper cups? More fussy to prepare & more spillage, but much better for the environment. Also, too many slow people who want to start at the front means faster people have to spend the first 5km weaving around them - but its impossible to manage this problem so all events have it.
Loved it- well organised, no queues for things like bag drops. Busy but enjoyable. Great atmosphere and great fun
I love running this race. Cause is very close to my heart and I feel so blessed to be part of it.
Very cold day as expected, baggage drop and other facilities were plentiful. Race started on time and getting to the pens was easy. Course route whilst flat was twisty which does inhibit the ability to set a PB. On the whole had a really enjoyable day and race.
2nd time for me and definitely one of the highlights if the year. Fantastic route , well organised and an amazing atmosphere
Really enjoyed this run, great course, amazing atmosphere and I love the choirs and bands they have on around the course.
A great event, about 17,000 ran on the day. Great atmosphere in trafalgar Square pre and post race. A fab course through central London. Better organisation this year so more runners in the right waves so less swerving round people. Will sign up again next year. Hopefully loads of cash raised for CRUK.
Great race. The atmosphere was fantastic.Flat and fast course. Will run it again next year!
Fantastic atmosphere with a good route, can go wrong running round closed roads in London. Only negative being that the course is longer than 10k so its not a potential PB course. Actually measured 6.37 miles which is slightly irritating. Overall a very good run, but wouldnt return if I was going for another PB.
A overall good event. Well organised, nice fast flat route with lots of sights! Really enjoyed it and PBd!
Awesome! I've run all The London Winter Runs since they started in 2015. I love it. It is so happy, friendly, motivational, fantastic course for a PB, fantastic for fundraising. Just all round awesome.
It was very well organised. The only issue for me was the lack of density in terms of fast runners. With my time of 3610, I would have finished around the 150th rank in a big 10k event and not in the top 30. I wish this race could attract more quality runners in the same way Vitality 10k does.
Really well-organized and lots of space at the start/on the course given the amount of runners. Went as smoothly from arrival to finish like as one could hope for. Two areas for improvement: slightly long and confusing trip back to bag drop from finish line, and it would be great to see a central London race try a more unique route that deviates from the usual Mall + strand + Whitehall essentials (albeit still a wonderful course). Would have been great to run a leg on the Thames. Overall though wonderful experience and a beautiful medal to boot.
A big but really well organised event - the army of friendly and enthusiastic volunteers did a really good job of marshalling the 16 thousand or so runners around a flat course taking in some of the major landmarks of the city centre. It was a freezing cold day so, apart from the occasional team of cheerleading penguins or huskies, which personally I can take or leave, it was pretty deserted out on the course which made for a slightly eery atmosphere, epecially given how busy these streets are on any other day. The course itself was great though - good signage and accurately placed km markers. Its not cheap by any means but for the chance to run on closed roads right in the heart of the capital I think its well worth it, and of course its all for an excellent cause.
It was a well organised friendly raceThe indoor toilets were a little busy but the portaloos outside were quick/easy accessLoved the buff and the other goodies that were given out at the endMarshalls were very friendly.The award ceremony was a little delayed and not very organised, most people had gone home by the time it was carried out
Fourth time we have run this. My wife was recently diagnosed with breast cancer so it was an emotional run for us but we did it together. We looked at the sights, we're in awe as we ran past iconic buildings, and loved the support of penguins and arctic foxes!
Nice & well organised but there wasnt much of a crowd compared to the London marathon. What happened to the medals with the spinning feature? I heard about delivery probs but will we be getting them?
Start was a bit confusing. Ended up setting off in the wrong wave because I just followed the signs to the start and ended up stuck in the crowd. Not a big issue though and probably my own fault.Wonder if the course is actually a bit longer than 10km according to my Strava? But that might just be because of technical glitches etc.Despite those minor things though, the race was really great, brilliantly organised and a lot of fun!
Really enjoyed the experience. Fun, flat, good atmosphere, well organised, friendly.
Its one of my favourite events of the year. Done all 4 and they are well organised and great fun.
Chaos at the end where people didn't know how to get home. Chaos at the start where people couldn't navigate their way from embankment to starting line
Awsm race really fun, My only criticism was the organisation at the start, there were no pens for people to run in depending on their time. So personally, i had to fight my way through a load of people for the first 4 km nearly. otherwise really cool event!
All the stewards and helpers were so friendly and polite which created a friendly atmosphere. The course was flat,fast and scenic and a lovely Medal! Overall a well organised and friendly race. I would definitely recommend the race and I will definitely be running it again in 2019!
Fun, happy race on lovely closed roads in central London. Lots of excited penguins, polar bears and music to keep your running motivation levels high. Massive event but extremely well organised. Completed the race in 2017 and 2018.
Very fast course. I got a new 10k PB. Nice medal. Definitely do again next year.
It was extremely emotional as I've had 6 close friends & family pass away from Cancer within the space of 8 months...yet it was fun & exciting!
This is the 3rd year I have run the race and have always found it well organised and a great atmosphere.Likes:Good all round organisationPlenty of loosEfficient bag dropGreat coursePolar bears, penguins, snowmen and the yetisNo so good:Didnt get the email with start time but found it easily enough on the websiteExpensive but I can see where most of the cost went in terms or organisation and road closuresNot the most generous of goodies given the costAll in all, very enjoyable
Such an amazing run full of iconic views and for a very worthy cause. My one criticism is the distance. Ive ran it 3 years and my smart watch consistently says the distance is 10.3km which is frustrating when wanting to do a pb. Others have shared this viewpoint
This was my first time running the Cancer Research Winter Run 10k and I will definitely be returning next year. The event was very well organised and it was like one big running carnival from start to finish. There were staged starts which was brilliant as the event is very large with thousands of runners, which meant that the first km was pretty slow going but afterwards it was a flat and fast course. The polar bears were a nice touch and brought a smile to my face when struggling in those last laps. Great medal and the goodies at the end were great.
Excellent race. Ive done the winter run in London every year since it started and it just gets better. A fast, flat course (except for two pesky hairpins) and a fantastic atmosphere. Well organised, great medal, good fun.
The course is great, super flat, definitely a course for a PB if you're near the front
From start to finish this was a great experience, very well organised with friendly and helpful volunteers and marshals. I used the race to try and fine tune my half marathon pace but it definitely has Pb potential if that is what youre after or a fun race to take part in with great support all around the course. Would have perhaps been nice to have had a goody bag at the end but the cakes were very good. All in all a great, fun race.
Ive done the cancer research London winter run every single year and its always amazing. Great fast course, brilliant atmosphere and excellent organisation. I love the bands and live music - even more next time please guys!! Whilst its pretty pricey for a 10k its definitely worth it and Ill certainly be coming back next year!
Excellent. This was my third year and this year also weather was perfect and managed to get a great 39:59 time. If there is one thing to improve is to have better separation between the waves at the start line.
Amazing day from start to finish. Flawless organisation and prompt start meant that I ran my way to a new 10km PB on the closed streets of London. All for a good cause, would recommend this to anyone and everyone
I had an amazing race and beat my personal best by a minute and 12 seconds! The course was perfect and the atmosphere was amazing!
4.8114 reviews
Friendly atmosphere
Good for beginners
Well organized
Rate this event
Logistics and schedule
Participants can run anytime between the 22nd of November and the 7th of February and clock as many miles as you want, earning epic virtual badges on the way.
Then, runners will all do the full 10k distance on the 7th of February together as a grand finale to an awesome couple of months of running!
In the lead up to the event, runners can choose their own training routes, distances, and paces while they fundraise for this fantastic cause.
Entrants must make sure their fund-raising page is linked to their Winter Run fundraising page on the event website's dashboard to be eligible for rewards.
Please note: Delivery of items will start from early January; please allow a minimum of 2 weeks after this point and from when you receive your confirmation amount for delivery.
How to get there
London, UK
Get directionsThe beauty of a virtual winter run means that participants can run their favourite routes (from anywhere!) and clock some awesome times to get ready for the main event.
Frequently asked questions
How do I upload the evidence of my runs for the Virtual Winter Run?
Your runs will automatically upload when you have connected your fitness app to your profile on the event website's dashboard. Alternatively you can manually log your runs too, so don't worry, all your hard work will be counted.The challenges weren't live when I started logging my runs for the Virtual Winter Run, will my activity still count towards them?
Yes, all activity you have logged will count towards all of the badges, even if the badge wasn't live when you completed the challenge!How do I find the leaderboard for the Virtual Winter Run?
In Your Team’s profile page you will see your Team Leaderboard where you can search for individuals as well as people in your local area.Is there a fundraising minimum amount for the Virtual Winter Run?
No, there isn't a minimum amount, however it is encouraged to raise as much as you can. Not only does this help fund vital work that Cancer UK are doing, but you also earn epic physical rewards for fundraising certain amounts.How do I set my fundraising goal for the Virtual Winter Run?
You'll set up your fundraising goal when you register for the event and can edit it at any time in the 'Edit My Page' section. Is there a minimum age requirement to enter the Virtual Winter Run?
There's no minimum age so the whole family can get involved, however runners under 18 will require the approval of a guardian!How do I sync my tracking app for the Virtual Winter Run?
Participants can use the FitBit, Strava, or MapMyFitness apps to track their runs. Once these are set up, log in to your Winter Run account on the event website, and click the drop down menu from your name on the top right corner. Under the heading, click your chosen app and connect you app. When you next work out, select ‘start your workout’ in the app on your phone. Once you end your workout, save your workout and ensure that this is posted as a public activity. Your distance will be published to the tally on your page the following day!Booking related questionsDo you have a question about bookings, cancellations, or refunds?
10k
10:00am Sun 7th Feb 2021
Route description
Route description
Due to the new restrictions surrounding COVID-19, it seems an in-person run isn't possible, but although you can't come together in-person...this awesome winter run has gone virtual!
Between the 22nd of November and 7th of February, EVERYONE is encouraged to lace up their running shoes and earn some awesome badges and prizes.
Entry is completely free, and runners will fundraise to earn some epic prizes on their training runs, before running the 10k distance together on the 7th of February.
Completing different challenges on training runs will earn participants a huge variety of badges, just have a look below:
- 5k Badge - Record a total of 5km over multiple runs
- 10k Badge - Record a total of 10km over multiple runs
- 20k Badge - Record a total of 20km over multiple runs to win bronze
- 50k Badge - Record a total of 50km over multiple runs to win silver
- 100k Badge - Record a total of 100km over multiple runs to win gold
- Ice Cold Badge - Log your first 3k in one go training run
- Cold Feet Badge - Record your first 5k in one training session
- Deep Freeze Badge - Cover 7km in one go
- Friluftsliv Badge - By logging you first run, you are living the Norwegian life!
- Ice Bath Badge - Log your event day distance of 10km on a training run
- 12 Days of Christmas Badge - Keep activity after Christmas indulgence
Any running activity you log from the point of sign up will count towards the badges when they are live, so get started with some runs today!
LOVED this event!! Such a fab atmosphere. Bag drop was straight forward, lots of toilets at the start. Great course and lots going on throughout - bands, choirs, lots of cheering. Fab race
Well organised but would love the option of toilets near the start of the course so you don't need a pee before it starts!
Great course for enjoying closed streets in central London, can get a little crowded at times but overall its more about the setting than the race. A Trafalgar Sq start is brilliant. Bag check well organised. Walk from finish line back to bag check was a little chilly though...
Top tips for race day: The Nuffield Health tent was right in the centre of Trafalgar Sq and had massive blower heaters (an amazing find to warm up afterwards!) and they were giving away free hot chocolate.Would really suggest bringing a little foil blanket (theyre 10cmx10cm folded and you can get them in any running shop and foil is v easily recycled). Keep it with you for the start pens, then fold it back up and tuck it into your belt or pop it in your armband for when you finish. There is a little walk back past Horse Guards to bag drop at Traf sq where it got a little chilly and would have been great to have a little foil blanket. I cant recommend this race highly enough. Its very well organised; bag drop was quick to drop off and collect, the start line was efficient and they really pulled out all the stops. There were people dressed like penguins, huskies and 10ft polar bears all around the course giving high fives. There were bands, buskers and choirs, even the church bells were in full swing all through central London. 20,000 people run this race every year and I just assumed like other races this size, the route would be super crowded. But, due to incredible organisation and timing the course was clear for everyone. Loads of us even managed to get PBs! This is surely unheard of in a race this size. The route is right through the centre of London on completely closed roads with an incredible start right on Trafalgar Square. There was so much going on along the route that I didnt even realise wed got to mile 5 until I saw the banner, no wonder I got a PB! You definitely wont need your headphones. It was so much fun, I cant wait to run it again next year. The start/finish area is located here as well, and there was a massive stage in front of the National Gallery with bands performing all morning. The atmosphere through the whole race was just electric, so many smiles and a lot of happiness as runners raised money for an incredible cause.
I have ran this the last 3 years and love it. This year I introduced my bro in law and sister to it and then couldnt believe how well organised it is..which it is!It did for some reason feel a bit emptier this year but maybe thats cause I was in first wave. A communal warm up in tra square would be awesome rather then everyone trying to do it boxed in in the pens. Keep it up!!
I have ran this race 3 years in a row and each year it has been wonderfully organised and one of the best 10k races in London. The course is perfect for a PB or also perfect for those just looking to enjoy a nice race.
C
Christopher5.0
Did the 10k in 2018Ive been running this event every year since the inaugural in 2015 and its been getting better year on year. Its always freezing, so wear layers but everything else is just great.
Have warm clothing at the start and end. The tall buildings disrupt GPS so your watch readings may be wrong, save something in the tank in case your GPS distance doesnt match actual, my final watch distance was 10.9km.
I really enjoyed running London winter run 2018 what a great day well organized and a big shout to the volunteers and organizers see you next year
A great flat, fast course with plenty of support along the way! Running through Central London on a Sunday morning with closed roads is surreal but at the same time fantastic. I would highly recommend this race to others - other than the course it is also for a great charity!
There were no expectations on the race itself as the day before had been about food and drink. Just go out and enjoy it, glad I had that mentality as although starting in the first wave I got caught up in a bottle neck and ended up running on the pavements for a bit. However running through my favourite places and then culminating in a 400m sprint finish with another competitor was just awesome and made up for the slow start. Highly recommend this race for anyone who wants to do a 10k for fun or seriously the support was great too, I mean how often do you get to hug a yeti? let alone during a race!?
An absolutely brilliant event. Lively, well ran, easy to get too. Will recommend & return next year. Thank you London.
My first 10k! Hard for me but a great course, loved the entertainment en route, especially the drummers. Really well organised, bag drop was fab, hot choc was amazing, support from other runners and spectators was great. Pre-information was excellent. Cant wait to do it again with my Beginners2Runners buddies - green army !!
2nd time running the Winter Run. Loved it. The atmosphere is fantastic, really energetic and buzzing. Love the flat course enabling me to go for a PB! I'll be back next year for sure.
Very good - only problem was people starting in the wrong wave - I was wave 1 starting at 9.30 and there were a lot of later waves (7 and 8) deciding to start with us meaning the first mile was spent trying to get past the slower people!
This race was great! Fantastic route and support. Ran with friends and got a personal best as well. No pacers which I liked at my last 10k at Kew. Really well organised on the day with good after race event.
Really lovely, enjoyed all the music, singers, dressed up people around the course.
I do lots of events each year but never this one - this was part of my Stag do as Im getting married next week so my 2 best men , me and my Son ran it together- everything from toilets to bag drop was really well organised with very little queuing - Marshalls were brilliant and along with a great crowd what more could you want - will definitely be back next year
Excellent organization, very good staff, fantastic atmosphere, great course!
Second year running this event, cant wait for next year. Perfect for those training for spring marathon.
Running for the 3rd consecutive year ... amazing! I love this winter run because: 1. It reminds me how great it is to be living in London (it is London after all, we should remember this); 2. I love running and running outdoor on closed streets with 16000 people (I mean, what else could you ask for)?; 3. It's a great cause!!!
I run about 20k a week and have done this and the Vitality 10k in May for quite a few years. I do it to chase a PB as it's a fast flat course, so I'm taking it seriously. It is an excellent PB course - if you can avoid getting stuck at the start. It's well organised (and has been getting better every year) with a real sense of fun. The snow cannons are disappointing every year but generally for what it's trying to be it's very well done. However, because it is trying to be "fun" it doesn't take the starting waves very seriously. The Vitality 10K in May has starting pens based on estimated time and is very strict about them. The Winter Run tries but isn't that serious about it (which is fine, it's trying to be a fun run) but it means that you can be 20 rows back from the front in the first wave and be behind people who are running a much slower pace. A friend set off at 9:39 (start waves from 9:30 -> 10:30) and passed people walking at 1k. So, if you're going for a PB you're going to have to be prepare to duck and weave for the first k or so. That's not a criticism though - as a large scale event in central London it's a great day out enjoyed by 17,000 people and I'll be back next year.
Great event my 3rd time now and my Pb course very flat and well organised .
I'd recommend this run to anyone- from fast club runner to first timer. It was superbly organized, beginning with the acceptance that a Winter run requires preparations for freezing conditions; so the free beenies were widely used. Excellent, efficient bag area in Trafalgar Square with dozens of volunteers. Unlike the London Marathon, plenty of toilets and almost no queuing in the cold. Warm up fun for those who wanted it. A big shout to the drumming group en route- the stars of the music scene. Fun along the route (traffic free through Central London), friendly gift-givers at the end. Good results service with age categories. All in all, as close to perfect as you can get.
Always really enjoy this race. Great atmosphere, well organised, good bag drop - basically all good!
Great flat 10k course. Well supported at the start and finish areas. Very nice medal.
It was a great experience! So much bigger than i expected. Great vibe and energy all round. Loved it and will be back.
What a brilliantly organised run ! Loved the polar bears and penguins along the way. All the marshalls were so supportive! Only downside was it would have been nice to run along the Thames and over a couple of bridges to take in more of the sites but appreciate the difficulties associated with road closures etc. All in all what a FAB event - totally would recommend !
Really enjoyed running past the iconic sights on closed roads. Superb organisation.
Great event, there was issues at the start where it was crowded in the first km or so with people who were in the wrong banding. I was in the orange band but I was having to pass runners who going at a very slow pace which caused problems at the crowded start. There were no stewards checking to make sure the runners were in the correct area, everyone just seemed mixed in together
I had very tired legs at the start after skiing the week before. Turned up at the race and was instantly energised by the atmosphere and buzz around the place which certainly inspired my run and helped push me on despite my legs wanting to stop. It was very well organised on the day and there were plenty of support staff around to assist with any questions.
2nd time doing this and better organised every year. Last year was in the 2nd wave and went off with the first, no such trouble this year. Great course and great fun!
Loved every minute! It was second time doing this race and by far my favourite :)
Loved the drummers and singers - helped with the pace. Fantastic atmosphere
Really enjoyed the race..cant argue with a nice imposing, but lovely and flat London course.. race was well organised and no crowding at the start of the race..you were never in anyone elses way..hope to be there next year.
Really well organised event. Lots of support along the way and a super fast route. Well worth the journey from Northern Ireland. Would definitely recommend to others.
An amazing day, really well organised and the volunteers were awesome, will def be back in 2019
Great race. Being a Londoner I'm not sure if it makes the thrill of 'closed road London racing' any more or any less. But it's a huge privilege. Superb course, superb organisation and such a worthy cause to be running for. Top marks all round.
2nd year running. Its congested to start like any London large race event but the course is clear and safe. Well marshalled with nice novelty points along the way
Loved the whole experience. Brilliant atmosphere despite the cold and great organisation!
My second year at the London Winter 10k and best one so far. Arrived a little earlier and missed the scrum getting out of Charing Cross tube. Great atmosphere at the start. Distance markers spot on, so even though I had a rouge GPS ping for 5k, when I hit the marker I knew I was bang on target. Although there are a couple of switch-backs on the course, which upset the flow a little, the final drop down into Whitehall for the finish gives you the confidence to cane the last half k. Great Race and my official start to the year.
This was my first charity London-based Road Run. Absolutely fantastic experience. Congratulations to everyone involved. The course was clearly marked, marshalled and well-supported with mascots and music (choir/ band etc.). Free refreshments at the end were welcomed as was the 'very posh' medal. Thanks for making the occasion a special one.
Once again I had a fantastic experience at theLondon Winter Run. It's a great course on closed roads through central London, everything was well organised, from the bag drop to the number of loos available (always important!), and the volunteers were so friendly and enthusiastic despite how bitterly cold it was. A massive thank you to them, and the amazing crowds who cheered us round the whole route. I also loved the various "attractions" that they had placed at various points around the course - the Penguin Party, the Yeti Cave and the Huskies lined various points on the route to give you a big high five! The choirs were fab, but my favourite was the drumming band which, due to their location, you get to run past twice. The beating of the drums is just awesome to run to. They were my course highlight from last year, and I was so glad they were back!It's also worth pointing out that the medals we received on the day are actually substitute medals, as the "real" ones, with spinning snowflakes in the middle, got caught in customs for a couple of weeks. The real ones are due to be posted to us once they are released but I have to say, the fact that the organisers managed to sort out substitute medals which are beautiful, and of a super high quality in themselves, is very impressive. They wanted to make sure we got medals as we crossed the line which is so thoughtful, and I'm amazed that they are still going to try and get our real medals to us as well. That said, I do love a bit of race bling, and so I don't mind getting two medals for one race!Although the race is admittedly an expensive one, when you take into account the level of organisation required to pull off a closed roads event in central London for 20,000 runners, and the fact is for such a good cause, I can't really grumble too much about the entry fee. Plus, it's also evident from how the organisers dealt with the medal situation that they care about the runners and want them to have a fantastic experience. I highly recommend the London Winter Run, and I hope I'll be able to go back for 3 in a row in 2019!
One of the best organised races I have entered, great toilet access and great bag drop organisation. Very clear communication before the race and I liked being texted my result so quickly. Despite there being so many people it seems to run like clockwork. Loved all the entertainment on the course too and brilliant to run on traffic free London roads.
Great.......a fast course through central London......the final km is perfect to help grab a PB. I dipped under 40min for first time this year. This LWR kicks off the season with a bang and the anticipation keeps me motivated through December! Love it - an essential event in my calendar!!
I absolutely loved it! It was a superbly organised and fantastic course. It is definitely going to be an annual event from here on in! I have to say its one of the best 10k events I have run ! Brilliant
It was really amazing, the route was great as it really didn't feel that long! Maybe a few less 180 turns as they are always a nightmare to get around but apart from that it was a fantastic route, so well organised. The bag drop system was so quick and easy.
A well-organised event on a fast course on closed roads through the centre of London. Interesting split - 6,000 male runners, 10,000 female. Start waves so everyone gets a good run. A good cause too - and good to run it on World Cancer Day.
I have done every running of this event as I really enjoy it. Pretty sure it would be a difficult course to get a PB on but I do know people who have. i love running on closed roads in Central London and as I was trying out an injury, the flat course was ideal. Everything from the loos, yes they had loads of paper! to the baggage drop, finish line and on route entertainment was great.
Every year is always a very good experience to start the race season with the Winter Run.Amazing track and amazing people
Great race! I enter all the main races in London if I can get in and this was no exception. Completely closed roads around iconic areas and landmarks around London, minimal elevation and energetic supporters and volunteers. What's more, it's all for a great cause. What's not to like? Obviously, being a winter run, I expected it to be chilly, but nothing an extra layer couldn't fix. Would do it again.
Its a great event, with loads of volunteers and a fantastic vibe. This year the weather was perfect, which was lucky, so we were able to get a good time. The baggage drop is the most efficient for an event of this size that Ive experienced and its vital, as the temp is so cold you need assess to warm clothes. The music, bands, volunteers & dressed-up animals are a real boost as you move through the course. My main criticism is the waste of plastic bottles at the water station. Perhaps use paper cups? More fussy to prepare & more spillage, but much better for the environment. Also, too many slow people who want to start at the front means faster people have to spend the first 5km weaving around them - but its impossible to manage this problem so all events have it.
Loved it- well organised, no queues for things like bag drops. Busy but enjoyable. Great atmosphere and great fun
I love running this race. Cause is very close to my heart and I feel so blessed to be part of it.
Very cold day as expected, baggage drop and other facilities were plentiful. Race started on time and getting to the pens was easy. Course route whilst flat was twisty which does inhibit the ability to set a PB. On the whole had a really enjoyable day and race.
2nd time for me and definitely one of the highlights if the year. Fantastic route , well organised and an amazing atmosphere
Really enjoyed this run, great course, amazing atmosphere and I love the choirs and bands they have on around the course.
A great event, about 17,000 ran on the day. Great atmosphere in trafalgar Square pre and post race. A fab course through central London. Better organisation this year so more runners in the right waves so less swerving round people. Will sign up again next year. Hopefully loads of cash raised for CRUK.
Great race. The atmosphere was fantastic.Flat and fast course. Will run it again next year!
Fantastic atmosphere with a good route, can go wrong running round closed roads in London. Only negative being that the course is longer than 10k so its not a potential PB course. Actually measured 6.37 miles which is slightly irritating. Overall a very good run, but wouldnt return if I was going for another PB.
A overall good event. Well organised, nice fast flat route with lots of sights! Really enjoyed it and PBd!
Awesome! I've run all The London Winter Runs since they started in 2015. I love it. It is so happy, friendly, motivational, fantastic course for a PB, fantastic for fundraising. Just all round awesome.
It was very well organised. The only issue for me was the lack of density in terms of fast runners. With my time of 3610, I would have finished around the 150th rank in a big 10k event and not in the top 30. I wish this race could attract more quality runners in the same way Vitality 10k does.
Really well-organized and lots of space at the start/on the course given the amount of runners. Went as smoothly from arrival to finish like as one could hope for. Two areas for improvement: slightly long and confusing trip back to bag drop from finish line, and it would be great to see a central London race try a more unique route that deviates from the usual Mall + strand + Whitehall essentials (albeit still a wonderful course). Would have been great to run a leg on the Thames. Overall though wonderful experience and a beautiful medal to boot.
A big but really well organised event - the army of friendly and enthusiastic volunteers did a really good job of marshalling the 16 thousand or so runners around a flat course taking in some of the major landmarks of the city centre. It was a freezing cold day so, apart from the occasional team of cheerleading penguins or huskies, which personally I can take or leave, it was pretty deserted out on the course which made for a slightly eery atmosphere, epecially given how busy these streets are on any other day. The course itself was great though - good signage and accurately placed km markers. Its not cheap by any means but for the chance to run on closed roads right in the heart of the capital I think its well worth it, and of course its all for an excellent cause.
It was a well organised friendly raceThe indoor toilets were a little busy but the portaloos outside were quick/easy accessLoved the buff and the other goodies that were given out at the endMarshalls were very friendly.The award ceremony was a little delayed and not very organised, most people had gone home by the time it was carried out
Fourth time we have run this. My wife was recently diagnosed with breast cancer so it was an emotional run for us but we did it together. We looked at the sights, we're in awe as we ran past iconic buildings, and loved the support of penguins and arctic foxes!
Nice & well organised but there wasnt much of a crowd compared to the London marathon. What happened to the medals with the spinning feature? I heard about delivery probs but will we be getting them?
Start was a bit confusing. Ended up setting off in the wrong wave because I just followed the signs to the start and ended up stuck in the crowd. Not a big issue though and probably my own fault.Wonder if the course is actually a bit longer than 10km according to my Strava? But that might just be because of technical glitches etc.Despite those minor things though, the race was really great, brilliantly organised and a lot of fun!
Really enjoyed the experience. Fun, flat, good atmosphere, well organised, friendly.
Its one of my favourite events of the year. Done all 4 and they are well organised and great fun.
Chaos at the end where people didn't know how to get home. Chaos at the start where people couldn't navigate their way from embankment to starting line
Awsm race really fun, My only criticism was the organisation at the start, there were no pens for people to run in depending on their time. So personally, i had to fight my way through a load of people for the first 4 km nearly. otherwise really cool event!
All the stewards and helpers were so friendly and polite which created a friendly atmosphere. The course was flat,fast and scenic and a lovely Medal! Overall a well organised and friendly race. I would definitely recommend the race and I will definitely be running it again in 2019!
Fun, happy race on lovely closed roads in central London. Lots of excited penguins, polar bears and music to keep your running motivation levels high. Massive event but extremely well organised. Completed the race in 2017 and 2018.
Very fast course. I got a new 10k PB. Nice medal. Definitely do again next year.
It was extremely emotional as I've had 6 close friends & family pass away from Cancer within the space of 8 months...yet it was fun & exciting!
This is the 3rd year I have run the race and have always found it well organised and a great atmosphere.Likes:Good all round organisationPlenty of loosEfficient bag dropGreat coursePolar bears, penguins, snowmen and the yetisNo so good:Didnt get the email with start time but found it easily enough on the websiteExpensive but I can see where most of the cost went in terms or organisation and road closuresNot the most generous of goodies given the costAll in all, very enjoyable
Such an amazing run full of iconic views and for a very worthy cause. My one criticism is the distance. Ive ran it 3 years and my smart watch consistently says the distance is 10.3km which is frustrating when wanting to do a pb. Others have shared this viewpoint
This was my first time running the Cancer Research Winter Run 10k and I will definitely be returning next year. The event was very well organised and it was like one big running carnival from start to finish. There were staged starts which was brilliant as the event is very large with thousands of runners, which meant that the first km was pretty slow going but afterwards it was a flat and fast course. The polar bears were a nice touch and brought a smile to my face when struggling in those last laps. Great medal and the goodies at the end were great.
Excellent race. Ive done the winter run in London every year since it started and it just gets better. A fast, flat course (except for two pesky hairpins) and a fantastic atmosphere. Well organised, great medal, good fun.
The course is great, super flat, definitely a course for a PB if you're near the front
From start to finish this was a great experience, very well organised with friendly and helpful volunteers and marshals. I used the race to try and fine tune my half marathon pace but it definitely has Pb potential if that is what youre after or a fun race to take part in with great support all around the course. Would have perhaps been nice to have had a goody bag at the end but the cakes were very good. All in all a great, fun race.
Ive done the cancer research London winter run every single year and its always amazing. Great fast course, brilliant atmosphere and excellent organisation. I love the bands and live music - even more next time please guys!! Whilst its pretty pricey for a 10k its definitely worth it and Ill certainly be coming back next year!
Excellent. This was my third year and this year also weather was perfect and managed to get a great 39:59 time. If there is one thing to improve is to have better separation between the waves at the start line.
Amazing day from start to finish. Flawless organisation and prompt start meant that I ran my way to a new 10km PB on the closed streets of London. All for a good cause, would recommend this to anyone and everyone
I had an amazing race and beat my personal best by a minute and 12 seconds! The course was perfect and the atmosphere was amazing!
4.8114 reviews
Friendly atmosphere
Good for beginners
Well organized
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Logistics and schedule
Participants can run anytime between the 22nd of November and the 7th of February and clock as many miles as you want, earning epic virtual badges on the way.
Then, runners will all do the full 10k distance on the 7th of February together as a grand finale to an awesome couple of months of running!
In the lead up to the event, runners can choose their own training routes, distances, and paces while they fundraise for this fantastic cause.
Entrants must make sure their fund-raising page is linked to their Winter Run fundraising page on the event website's dashboard to be eligible for rewards.
Please note: Delivery of items will start from early January; please allow a minimum of 2 weeks after this point and from when you receive your confirmation amount for delivery.
How to get there
London, UK
Get directionsThe beauty of a virtual winter run means that participants can run their favourite routes (from anywhere!) and clock some awesome times to get ready for the main event.
Frequently asked questions
How do I upload the evidence of my runs for the Virtual Winter Run?
Your runs will automatically upload when you have connected your fitness app to your profile on the event website's dashboard. Alternatively you can manually log your runs too, so don't worry, all your hard work will be counted.The challenges weren't live when I started logging my runs for the Virtual Winter Run, will my activity still count towards them?
Yes, all activity you have logged will count towards all of the badges, even if the badge wasn't live when you completed the challenge!How do I find the leaderboard for the Virtual Winter Run?
In Your Team’s profile page you will see your Team Leaderboard where you can search for individuals as well as people in your local area.Is there a fundraising minimum amount for the Virtual Winter Run?
No, there isn't a minimum amount, however it is encouraged to raise as much as you can. Not only does this help fund vital work that Cancer UK are doing, but you also earn epic physical rewards for fundraising certain amounts.How do I set my fundraising goal for the Virtual Winter Run?
You'll set up your fundraising goal when you register for the event and can edit it at any time in the 'Edit My Page' section. Is there a minimum age requirement to enter the Virtual Winter Run?
There's no minimum age so the whole family can get involved, however runners under 18 will require the approval of a guardian!How do I sync my tracking app for the Virtual Winter Run?
Participants can use the FitBit, Strava, or MapMyFitness apps to track their runs. Once these are set up, log in to your Winter Run account on the event website, and click the drop down menu from your name on the top right corner. Under the heading, click your chosen app and connect you app. When you next work out, select ‘start your workout’ in the app on your phone. Once you end your workout, save your workout and ensure that this is posted as a public activity. Your distance will be published to the tally on your page the following day!Booking related questionsDo you have a question about bookings, cancellations, or refunds?
10k
10:00am Sun 7th Feb 2021