Battersea parkrun celebrates one-year anniversary

On its official launch day in October 2024, Battersea parkrun was the most-attended parkrun in the world. Over the past year, it has welcomed over 25,000 participants and recorded almost 44,000 finishes, quickly making it a staple of Saturday mornings for locals and visitors alike.

The popular 5k, which has been identified as one of the UK’s most popular parkruns, has drawn a wonderfully diverse mix of participants, including disabled runners, Chelsea Pensioners, walkers, cancer support groups and families with babies in buggies, not to mention plenty of enthusiastic dogs. This diversity reflects the event’s commitment to accessibility and community spirit.

Around 1,000 people turned out for the 43rd Battersea parkrun, sharing a jubilant atmosphere for its first anniversary.

Among runners was Poppy Brady, who joined friends to kick off her 28th birthday celebrations by completing the beautiful course around Battersea Park. “It’s a really nice way to celebrate in the fresh air with friends,” explained Poppy.

For 13-year old Charlie Camilleri, the run was a proud moment as he surged through the finishing line among the front runners. “It was an awesome run among all the trees and nature and with so many other people,” said the teen.

Meanwhile, US-based Natasha Dyer was joined by her husband and teenage son as the family added Battersea parkrun to their holiday schedule. Hailing from Kansas, Natasha had saved her milestone 50th parkrun outing to enjoy at Battersea Park. “I was so excited to be here at Battersea Park to celebrate the first year of parkrun,” added Natasha.

Friends Matt Cassar Torregiani and Moses Foote completed their first run at Battersea Park, with Moses celebrating a personal best. Matt added: “It was a great morning, good energy and a fast route, it’s a brilliant event.”

Battersea parkrun supports the ambitions set out in the council’s Wandsworth Moves Together strategy, offering residents a welcoming space to get active, connect with others and improve their wellbeing.

The event has also partnered with Battersea Fields GP practice through the award-winning parkrun practice programme, encouraging both staff and patients to take part and experience the physical and mental health benefits of moving more.

Paul White, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “I am delighted to celebrate Battersea parkrun’s first birthday, a year after we listened to residents and brought it to one of London’s most iconic parks.

“The fact that nearly 3,500 people have completed their first-ever parkrun here shows the power of community-led initiatives to inspire healthier lifestyles. That’s exactly what our Wandsworth Moves Together strategy is all about.

“I want to thank the parkrun, the volunteers and everyone involved for making this event such a success. I look forward to seeing it continue growing from strength to strength.

“We have also introduced junior parkrun to Battersea, and both parkruns to Tooting Common as well, showing our commitment to get people moving in fun, active and peaceful environments.”

Volunteers are the heartbeat of parkrun. Over the past year, nearly 900 people have helped deliver the event in Battersea, their dedication recognised after Saturday’s parkrun with a special volunteer celebration.

Regular volunteer Camila Gelber explained the camaraderie and community spirit keep her coming back. “I’ve been coming to Battersea parkrun since the beginning, I did the inaugural run and I’ve been volunteering since the start too,” explained Camila. “I really love it here, I’ve made a lot of friends and I love the community.”

Will Marks, Co-Event Director of Battersea parkrun, said: “It's been an absolute honour to be able to bring parkrun to Battersea over the past year.

“It's so important that there's a free, community event each week that encourages people to get active in the park.

“Whilst we're delighted that a massive 25,000 people have taken part in our parkrun since October 2024, it's the almost 3,500 people who have done their first ever parkrun at Battersea that we're so excited about.

“My thanks especially goes to all our amazing local volunteers who help deliver parkrun every week, rain or shine!”

Beyond health benefits, the event has also boosted local businesses, bringing around 1,000 people to Battersea Park each week, many of whom enjoy post-run refreshments at nearby cafés and venues.

Want to get involved?

Whether you want to walk, jog, run, volunteer or cheer, everyone is welcome at Battersea parkrun. The event takes place every Saturday at 9am and is free to attend. Just register online to get your personal Athlete ID, which will be scanned at the finish line so you can receive your results by email.

Interested in volunteering? Email battersea@parkrun.com to find out how you can help.