With thousands of runners having recently taken to the streets of the capital for the annual London Marathon, those inspired to take part next year are already fastening their laces and beginning the gruelling training schedule required. Considering the months of preparation required, the 26 mile distance is not something many would consider running on a daily basis. However, it is an ideal length for a commute into the capital by another mode of transport, allowing for both rural living and easy access to a city office. With the length of a marathon in mind, we have rounded up a selection of homes situated within 26 miles of the centre of London. Situated between Ascot and Sunningdale in Berkshire, Betula is located on one of the most sought after private roads in the area. With Ascot station under an hour by train from London Waterloo, the seven bedroom, seven bathroom property offers both the benefits offered by village living and the advantages provided by a chic cosmopolitan town. A carefully thought-out, open-plan layout of family, dining, and reception areas creates a spacious and inviting feel. Floor to ceiling windows offer views of the surrounding lush greenery, whilst flooding rooms with light throughout the day. Meanwhile, the extended garden and patio offer an ideal space for al fresco dining and entertaining. The property is currently on the market for 3,500,000 with our Weybridge office (t: 01932 821160). For more information please click here.  Kitlands East Lodge is situated in the popular village of Coldharbour, Surrey, an area known for its picturesque landscape. Believed to date back to the 19^th century, this charming period family house includes six bedrooms and benefits from generously sized reception rooms. The grounds extend to 1.2 acres, with views reaching over to the South Downs on a clear day. The property benefits from a position high within the picturesque Surrey Hills, yet just an hour by train from central London. The house is currently on the market for 1,290,000 with our Dorking office (t: 01306 887560). For more information please click here.  Situated in a modern development on the outskirts of the sought-after village of Hildenborough, Kent, this five bedroom contemporary family house benefits from just under an acre of beautifully landscaped gardens. The characteristic red brick and classic shingle faade has been designed to complement the traditional architectural aesthetic of the area, whilst the house nonetheless benefits from all the characteristics of a modern home. Surrounded by 20 acres of communal grounds, including a bluebell wood, the property has further access to two communal tennis courts. The house is conveniently situated just a 10 minute walk from Hildenborough station, from which London Bridge can be reached in 40 minutes by train. The property is currently on the market for 1,050,000 with our Sevenoaks office (t: 01732 740600). For more information please click here.  Situated in a rural position, a short drive from the village of Chipping Ongar, West Essex, Ashlyn Barn is an impressive conversion of a once derelict barn. With a striking blend of period features and modern additions, the property retains wide oak beams and exposed red brick elevations whilst also benefiting from recently installed floor to ceiling windows and contemporary fittings. The five bedroom house enjoys stunning rural views across the countryside and the nearby Cripsey Brook. Only 23 miles from London, this unique conversion is an ideal home from which to enjoy country life just an hour outside the capital. The property is currently on the market for 1,500,000 with our Chelmsford office (t: 01245 467468). For more information please visit here.