The Pub Run Club - where running meets community
RunTogether groups across the country are finding creative ways to bring people together, and the Pub Run Club is a perfect example of how running can strengthen community ties.
Based in Kingston, this group has not only grown into a thriving social running community but has also built a successful partnership with local Greene King pub, The Grove. Together, they’ve created a space where fitness, friendship, and local business support go hand in hand.
From idea to impact
The Pub Run Club started as a light-hearted idea between friends. Co-founder Chris Ford admits, “It was a silly idea at first,” but two years later, the group has become an award-winning initiative that’s changing lives. Chris himself has gone from non-runner to marathoner:
“I’ve run Barcelona and Berlin marathons, and next year I’ll be taking on Brighton, the Great North Run, and the Great South Run for Macmillan.”
What makes it work
The club’s motto, “have fun, get fit, be social”, captures its ethos perfectly. Each week, 50–70 runners meet for a safety briefing and warm-up before splitting into three groups: Have Fun: sub-30 min 5K, Get Fit: around 35 min 5K, Be Social: couch to 5K. Chris explains:
“We wanted to create a non-pressured environment where runners of all abilities can exercise safely without worrying about speed or ability. Each run leader has a speaker and a first aid kit, it’s all about making sure everyone feels supported and has fun.”
The Grove Partnership
The partnership with The Grove began by chance. “We were warming up outside The Ram in Kingston and invited Melissa to join us, not knowing that she ran The Grove!” Chris recalls. Since then, The Grove has played a vital role in promoting events, providing a warm space for post-run socialising, and even funding equipment like speakers to support additional run groups.
“The Grove funded our third speaker, which allowed us to add another group. We’re now fundraising for a fourth,” says Chris.
This collaboration has been beneficial for both sides:
“The pub has seen a positive uptake in footfall during quiet months, like January and some of our events have brought over 200 people through their doors. It’s a win-win.”
Community Impact
This club isn’t just about running, it’s about creating a sense of belonging, welcoming runners aged 8-72. In just two years, The Pub Run Club has raised over £17,000 for charity and was recently named Kingston Council’s Club of the Year 2025.
“I’m personally proud of the difference we’ve made to the local community and people’s lives, people who didn’t know each other are now friends. That’s the magic of The Pub Run Club.”
Looking Ahead
The future is bright for the club and Chris has big ambitions as he looks ahead.
“We’d love to expand nationwide, making pubs a hub for health and social wellbeing, similar to how coffee shops benefit from parkrun. We’re planning a huge summer event and want to keep everything free so everyone can join. It’s about creating spaces for conversation and connection.”