If there’s one venue that deserves an honourable mention in the annals of Pubrun history, it’s The Bull in London Colney. (AL2) we’ve now set off from this fine establishment twice, and on both occasions, it’s delivered a beautiful mix of scenic routes, hearty laughter, and glorious post-run refuelling.
From the very first stride, you’re treated to a route that feels like it was designed by someone who knows the sweet spot between countryside charm and curious landmarks. The route winds its way out through Napsbury—a name that might not ring bells unless you’re a local, but this former psychiatric hospital estate has a rich history. Built in the early 1900s, Napsbury Hospital was once a sprawling mental health facility with its own orchards, farmland, and railway. Today, it’s a quiet, leafy residential area with remnants of its Edwardian past still visible in the architecture and layout. It adds a slightly haunting but beautiful edge to the run.
From Napsbury, the route plunges under the M25, emerging into a sort of sports-lover’s pilgrimage path. On one side: the sleek, guarded home of Arsenal’s training ground; on the other: the less flashy but equally determined Watford FC facilities. It’s tradition now to stop for a few photos outside Arsenal’s gates—although partly to catch our breath.
Then it’s back over the M25 and homeward toward the promise of The Bull. That final stretch, at least on our first visit, was truly unforgettable. Around the 7km mark, the skies opened in what can only be described as a biblical downpour. For the last 3km, we ran headlong through sheets of rain that had us looking like extras in a disaster movie. When we staggered back into the Bull—soaked to the bone and steaming—the regulars burst out laughing. That laughter quickly turned into amazement when they realised we had just run 10km for fun before getting to the pub.
Both times we’ve done this run, The Bull has more than earned its spot on the Pubrun map. The beer is cold, the ales are fresh, the welcome is warm, and the cheesy chips? Outstanding. Crispy, golden, and buried under a generous pile of melted cheese. They are still held in reverence, and spoken about in whispers, by those in attendance.
If you find yourself anywhere near AL2, make the time to lace up and head out from The Bull. Whether it’s sunshine or sideways rain, the route and the post-run reward make this a must-run, must visit kind of venue.
