The Tan Track Melbourne
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Article published: 20th September 2023
Melbourne’s Iconic Tan Track
The Tan Track is a a 3.827 km track surrounding the picturesque Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne. It is the most popular and most visited running track in Melbourne with a growing reputation.
Irrespective of whether you are a fitness enthusiast looking for a great running, jogging, cycling or walking track or a casual visitor seeking a unique look at Melbourne’s past as well as current, don’t skip this awesome Melbourne attraction. In this post, we will explore the history, intriguing name and nickname, lap times and even reveal who ran the fastest lap of the Tan Track.
Contents
History
The Tan Track has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century.
It was created as a tanbark horse riding route around the Botanical Gardens, offering stunning views of lush Melbourne landscapes and pristine gardens. By the 1950s, equestrian use of the track stopped.
In 1974, the track was largely resurfaced with a mixture of rock and gravel, the way it appears to this day.
Why is it called the Tan?
One of the more intriguing aspects of the Tan Track is its name.
And like with so many famous sights, there are many theories around as to why it is called the Tan Track.
It may be a tribute to the tanbark that once covered the circuit (this is no longer the case though). Historically, this one probably makes the most sense. Tanbark was used to create a more soft, padded and comfortable track over the years.
Note, while the name may conjure images of the color tan, the track is not named after a colour or shade.
Another simple explanation is the fact that Aussies abbreviate so many things!
So like brekkie, barbie, arvo and avo, the Tan may just be another example. If this is true, Melbournians colloquially just shorten the Bo-TAN-ical Gardens to the “TAN”, making it easier to say. Possibly, just to confuse you.
I don’t know the if any of the above are the real reason for the name, it could even be a mix of them. You make up your own mind.
Walk or run the Tan
The track is suitable for walking and running. It is largely a gravel track these days with a small section of bitumen. It is also dog friendly (as long as on a leash). The track is suitable for all levels, easy to find and navigate, has lighting (last time I checked, until midnight) with distance markers every 250 metres.
The recognised starting point of a lap of the Tan is at the Pillars of Wisdom (close and opposite to the Swan Street Bridge and public BBQ areas) near the junction of Olympic Boulevard and Alexandra Avenue.
It is mostly a flat track with a small hill on Anderson Street. Locals call this area Heart Break Hill.
How long does it take to walk a lap of the Tan?
The Tan Track is about 3.827 kilometers (or 2.378 miles) long. Walking a lap at a medium pace typically takes around 30 to 50 minutes. For running, it takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Obviously these times will depend on your fitness level and walking / running speed.
A pretty good circuit distance for a brisk morning walk or a leisurely jog, offering both a challenge and serenity in equal measure.
Who ran the fastest lap of the Tan Track?
Now, for those who crave a bit of competition or are just curious about how they stack up against the best, the fastest recorded lap of the Tan Track is a pretty remarkable achievement.
The record for the fastest lap around The Tan is held by Australian middle distance runner Craig Mottram. In 2006, Mottram completed a lap in an amazing 10 minutes and 8 seconds, showcasing not only his incredible speed but also the track’s potential for elite level training.
For more top results, check out the Run The Tan Hall of Fame section, outlining the top 10 and 100 male and female times as well para, walking and age category fastest lap times.
Maybe you too can make it on the list one day.
Address and Map of The Tan
Conclusion
Whether you’re an experienced runner aiming to beat Craig Mottram’s record or simply seeking a relaxing, healthy stroll next to Melbourne’s botanical beauty, the Tan Track has something for everyone. From its historical significance, catchy name and accessible lap length, it is a must visit Melbourne spot for fitness, leisure, social time and curious travellers alike.
Keep an eye out for some special events on the Tan and Botanical Gardens.
Grab your running shoes and discover why the Tan is more than just a track – it is an astonishing piece of Melbourne’s vibrant history and a perfect place to embrace your inner athlete or nature lover self.
If you are driving to the Tan, there is some handy parking spots surrounding the Royal Botanical Gardens (may get busy at popular times).
References
- Run the Tan Hall of Fame, accessed September 2023
- Tanbark, Wikipedia page, accessed August 2023
We wrote “The Tan Track in Melbourne” article in September 2023. While we do our very best to provide up to date and useful information, we do not guarantee the accuracy of any of the information provided in this post. Mistakes can and do happen. If you spot one, please send us a message so we can fix it. As always, please do your own research prior and check official resources in addition to the information on Melbourne Buddy.
