Running tourism is about exploring a new city or your hometown on the move.
There’s no better way to get around and get to know somewhere. I mean really get under its skin, like a local. Treating the streets as a theme park, running tourism helps you to playfully tick off a record number of landmarks and neighbourhoods. Both the usual suspects and the hidden gems.
This Joy Run theme is all about taking yourself on a sightseeing tour and stopping for a moment to soak up the landmarks you might otherwise miss or take for granted.
From must-see landmarks to places that evoke special memories. You make the rules.
How to run this theme: Landmarks
Run as a home tourist with new eyes or explore somewhere new for the first time.
It could be:
- touristy hotspots
- the location of your first date
- built landmarks or parks
- where you played as a kid
- your favourite viewpoints
- quiet places of reflection
- the best spots to catch a sunset
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The benefits of running tourism
- a playful and sustainable way to travel
- rediscover and reconnect with your local area
- taking time to really connect with your surroundings
- more opportunities for self-reflection
- sightsee from new angles
- zoom past the crowds at landmarks
- turn holidays into adventures
- fit more landmarks into a tight schedule
How I ticked off local landmarks in York
The great urbanist Jane Jacobs once said you need to walk a city’s streets to see its soul. I think that extends to running too.
Despite living in York on and off for 15 years, running here helps me to keep things fresh and interesting.
Running in York city centre is a mini history lesson. Wherever you are you’re in close proximity to some of the best Roman, Georgian and Medieval architecture in the world. Find the best snickleway shortcuts. Run atop the city walls. Step foot in the shadows of one the world’s most magnificent cathedrals, running by the street art of its time – stained glass windows. Conquer the steps of Clifford’s Tower for the best vantage point. All within less than half a mile of each other.
The city is blessed with concentration of landmarks, but with that comes a hint of overtourism. Almost 9 million tourists in a city of only 200,000 residents.
The pavements are narrow and space is tight unless you’re running early or later in the day. So, that’s what I do.
At times it feels like I have the entire city to myself. And what I lose in people-watching, I gain in more peaceful and meaningful runs, resulting in a deeper connection to my adopted hometown.
Running tourism is very similar to ‘slow tourism’ in this way.
It’s also why I love to book onto running tours when I’m on holiday – to run like a local and build the best possible itinerary for the rest of my trip. A more authentic travel experience on fast forward.
One final thought...
Well done! By opting for running tourism, you’re doing your bit for the planet. Running and walking are the most sustainable ways to travel and make time to sample local food, cultures and ways of life.
→ Other ‘Running to Wonder‘ themes
