London, with its blend of iconic landmarks, green spaces, and diverse neighborhoods, offers cyclists a unique variety of routes. Whether you’re a casual rider or a seasoned cyclist, this guide will help you discover the best bike rides in and around the city. We’ll explore top destinations, key routes, and tips for a safe, enjoyable ride. Additionally, if you’re planning to use different transport options while exploring, check out our guide on How to Use London Taxis and Ride-Hailing, Apps and Fares.
Why Cycle in London?
Cycling in London has never been more popular. With growing infrastructure, such as cycle lanes and bike-sharing schemes, the city is becoming increasingly cycle-friendly. London’s mixture of urban and green landscapes provides an ideal backdrop for all levels of riders. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely spin along the Thames or a challenging route through Richmond Park, London offers something for everyone.
Best Central London Rides
Battersea Park to Greenwich
Distance: 16 km | Difficulty: Medium
This scenic route follows National Cycle Route 4, tracing the southern bank of the River Thames. It’s an ideal way to see many of London’s top landmarks, including the London Eye, Tate Modern, and Globe Theatre. You’ll cycle along a mix of quieter roads and dedicated cycle paths, allowing for a leisurely pace with plenty of sightseeing opportunities. The route’s flat terrain and traffic-free sections make it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned cyclists. You can stop at Greenwich to explore the historic Royal Observatory or take in the views from Greenwich Park.
Riding along the river allows you to appreciate the blend of modern and historical architecture that defines London. As you pass under Tower Bridge and cruise by Borough Market, you’ll also have opportunities to pause for food or drink at one of London’s many riverside cafes. This ride not only offers visual appeal but also plenty of places to take a break and enjoy the riverside atmosphere.
Big Ben to Richmond Park
Distance: 38 km | Difficulty: Hard
For those seeking a longer and more challenging route, the journey from Big Ben to Richmond Park offers a fulfilling experience. Starting in the heart of Westminster, this ride takes you through several boroughs before arriving at Richmond Park, one of London’s largest royal parks. The park itself is famous for its hilly terrain and wildlife, particularly its herds of deer. Richmond Park’s 7.5-mile perimeter road is popular among more experienced cyclists due to its challenging climbs and fast descents.
This route combines urban riding with scenic countryside, making it a perfect mix for those wanting a full-day ride. You’ll need to navigate city streets to reach the park, but once there, the vast open space and serene environment make the effort worthwhile. Cyclists often take several laps of the park before returning to central London, enjoying the park’s peaceful scenery.
Regent’s Park Outer Circle
Distance: 4 km (per lap) | Difficulty: Easy
A favorite for both beginner and experienced cyclists, Regent’s Park offers a perfect loop for those looking for a more controlled and flat ride. The Outer Circle of the park is free of traffic, providing an uninterrupted path that is ideal for families, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a leisurely cycle through a lush, green space. The park is also home to some of London’s most famous attractions, including the ZSL London Zoo, making it a great place for a relaxed ride with the opportunity to stop and explore.
Whether you’re doing laps for fitness or just enjoying the fresh air, Regent’s Park is a top pick due to its easy accessibility and central location. Many locals use it as a training ground or as a gentle after-work ride.
Rides in North London
Finsbury Park to Alexandra Palace
Distance: 6 km | Difficulty: Easy
This easy-going route is perfect for cyclists of all ages and abilities. The path follows the Parkland Walk, a disused railway line transformed into a lush, green walkway connecting Finsbury Park with Alexandra Palace. As you ride, you’ll pass through quiet, wooded areas and even catch glimpses of wildlife, making it a peaceful escape from the busy city streets. Alexandra Palace, perched atop a hill, offers some of the best panoramic views over London. The route is mostly flat, with only a slight incline as you approach the palace, making it a pleasant and achievable ride.
The peaceful surroundings of this route make it a hidden gem in North London. Many local cyclists appreciate the relative quiet and the opportunity to enjoy nature while staying within the city limits. Once you reach Alexandra Palace, it’s worth taking a moment to enjoy the view of the London skyline and perhaps grab a coffee at the palace’s café.
If you’re cycling this route in the early morning or late afternoon, consider bringing a camera or smartphone for capturing some truly breathtaking shots. The golden hour light enhances the beauty of the wooded areas and adds a dramatic glow to the panoramic views from Alexandra Palace. Additionally, cyclists looking to extend their ride can continue exploring the nearby Muswell Hill or take a detour to the New River Path, which offers another scenic and tranquil cycling experience just a short distance away.
East London Routes
Limehouse Basin to London Fields
Distance: 6 km | Difficulty: Easy
One of East London’s most scenic routes takes you along the Regents Canal from Limehouse Basin to the vibrant area of London Fields. Starting from the riverside, you’ll pedal through peaceful canal paths that guide you away from traffic and into the heart of East London. Along the way, you’ll pass by quirky houseboats, modern developments, and green spaces such as Victoria Park, making this a ride filled with varied sights and sounds.
This route is ideal for a relaxed afternoon ride, with plenty of places to stop for a drink or bite to eat at trendy cafes or local markets. At the end of the route, London Fields offers open spaces to rest and even enjoy a swim at the London Fields Lido. The blend of urban landscapes with serene canal paths makes this a must-ride for those exploring East London.
Olympic Park to Wanstead Flats
Distance: 6 km | Difficulty: Easy
Starting in the iconic Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, this route takes cyclists through one of London’s most modern and dynamic areas. The Olympic Park, which was built for the 2012 Olympic Games, is now a buzzing recreational space with plenty of cycle paths and green areas. From here, the route heads east towards the wide-open grasslands of Wanstead Flats. This peaceful area offers a welcome contrast to the busy streets of central London, providing cyclists with a tranquil, nature-filled experience.
Cyclists on this route can explore both the rich sporting history of the Olympic Park and the natural beauty of East London’s lesser-known green spaces. It’s a fantastic way to combine the modern urban environment with the calm of nature, making it suitable for casual riders looking to escape the city buzz.
West London’s Best Cycling Routes
King’s Cross to Notting Hill
Distance: 10 km | Difficulty: Easy
This route showcases some of West London’s most charming areas as you cycle from the vibrant King’s Cross neighborhood to the artistic heart of Notting Hill. Starting at the newly rejuvenated King’s Cross area, cyclists follow the Regent’s Canal, passing through Camden and Little Venice – areas known for their picturesque canals and colorful houseboats. The ride then takes you into the bustling streets of Notting Hill, where you can explore Portobello Market or stop for a coffee at one of the many trendy cafes.
This scenic ride is perfect for those looking to combine some of London’s most famous cultural landmarks with a relaxed, traffic-free cycling experience. The route is largely flat, making it accessible for all cyclists, and the mix of urban areas with quieter canal paths offers a diverse riding experience.
South London Routes
The Tower of London to Big Ben
Distance: 5 km | Difficulty: Easy
This iconic route allows cyclists to experience some of London’s most famous landmarks, riding alongside the River Thames. Starting at the Tower of London, you’ll pass under Tower Bridge, cycle along the Southbank, and finish at Big Ben. The route is mostly flat and provides a great opportunity for sightseeing, making it ideal for beginners or tourists looking to explore the city by bike. Along the way, you’ll pass cultural hotspots like Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and the Tate Modern, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views.
Cycling along the Thames Path ensures a relatively safe ride, as most of the route is free from heavy traffic. The riverside breeze and spectacular views of London’s skyline make this a popular choice for cyclists who want a relaxed yet visually rewarding ride. Since this is a shorter route, it can be easily completed in an hour or two, allowing you to make stops and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Routes
Thames Path from Kew to Hampton Court
Distance: 13 km | Difficulty: Easy
If you’re looking for a more tranquil and scenic ride away from the hustle and bustle of central London, the Thames Path from Kew Gardens to Hampton Court offers a peaceful escape. Starting in Kew, this largely traffic-free route follows the gentle curves of the River Thames, passing through beautiful parks, leafy neighborhoods, and historic sites. The ride ends at Hampton Court Palace, one of Britain’s most famous royal residences.
This route is ideal for those seeking a leisurely ride with stunning natural surroundings. Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful riverside views, charming pubs, and quiet picnic spots, making it a perfect route for a family outing or a relaxed day trip. The path is well-maintained, and the mostly flat terrain makes it suitable for cyclists of all levels.
Epping Forest Trails
Difficulty: Medium to Hard
Epping Forest, located on the northeastern edge of London, offers a completely different cycling experience for those who prefer off-road trails and more rugged terrain. Known for its extensive woodland and network of trails, Epping Forest is a haven for mountain bikers and cyclists looking for a challenge. The trails vary in difficulty, ranging from easy, wide paths suitable for families to more technical routes with steeper climbs and rougher terrain.
This forest is an excellent place for adventure cyclists who want to escape the city and immerse themselves in nature. The forest is vast, so it’s easy to spend a whole day exploring its many paths. Riders often enjoy the tranquility and sense of being far removed from the urban environment, even though they are still within reach of London.
Top Cycling Parks in London
Richmond Park
Richmond Park is one of the most popular destinations for cyclists in London. Its wide, open spaces and 7.5-mile loop make it perfect for both casual riders and serious cyclists alike. The park is known for its natural beauty, with herds of deer roaming freely and stunning views of the surrounding area. For more experienced cyclists, the park’s challenging hills provide an excellent opportunity to test endurance and strength.
Cyclists can enjoy the mix of peaceful riding through open grasslands and woodland, with the occasional burst of adrenaline from the park’s more demanding sections. Richmond Park is particularly beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer, and the park is less crowded. Many Londoners use the park as their go-to spot for weekend rides, given its unique combination of nature and challenging routes.
Hyde Park
For those looking for a more relaxed and family-friendly cycling experience, Hyde Park is one of the best options in central London. With its flat, wide paths and dedicated cycle routes, it’s perfect for leisurely rides while taking in the sights. The park offers plenty of attractions along the way, including the Serpentine Lake, Kensington Gardens, and the Diana Memorial Fountain. Hyde Park is ideal for beginners or families with children, offering a traffic-free environment in the heart of the city.
Hyde Park’s central location also makes it easily accessible for tourists looking to combine sightseeing with cycling. You can rent bikes at one of the nearby Santander Cycle stations and enjoy a peaceful ride through one of London’s most famous parks.
Bike-Friendly Cafes and Stops
London is home to a number of excellent bike-friendly cafes, where cyclists can stop for a quick coffee, a bite to eat, or even get their bikes repaired. These cafes have become popular hangouts for cycling enthusiasts, offering a place to refuel and relax during or after a ride.
- Look Mum No Hands! (Shoreditch): One of the most famous cycling cafes in London, Look Mum No Hands! offers a great atmosphere for cyclists, complete with excellent coffee, snacks, and even bike repair services. It’s a great spot to meet other cyclists or take a break mid-ride.
- Rapha Cycle Club (Soho): More than just a cafe, Rapha Cycle Club is a community hub for cyclists. With high-quality food, drinks, and cycling gear available, it’s a favorite among London’s cycling community. Cyclists often stop here to enjoy the ambiance or shop for premium cycling products.
- The Dynamo (Putney): Located in Southwest London, The Dynamo combines a passion for cycling with great food. It’s a popular stop for cyclists riding in and around Richmond Park, offering a cozy space to recharge with excellent pizzas and coffee.
Safety Tips for Cycling in London
Cycling in a busy city requires precautions. Follow these tips to stay safe:
- Use Cycle Lanes: Whenever possible, stick to designated cycle lanes or paths.
- Wear High-Visibility Gear: This ensures you’re easily spotted by drivers, especially in low-light conditions.
- Follow Traffic Rules: Obey the rules of the road, including traffic signals and signs.
- Carry Tools: Always carry a pump, spare tube, and basic repair tools for emergencies.
Cycling Events in London
London hosts a variety of cycling events throughout the year:
- RideLondon: One of the world’s largest cycling festivals, with routes through central London and Surrey.
- Critical Mass: A monthly, non-competitive ride aimed at celebrating cycling in the city.
Bike Rental Options
London offers several bike rental services for both short and long-term use:
- Santander Cycles: London’s public bike-sharing scheme, ideal for quick rides around the city.
- Donkey Republic: A flexible, app-based bike rental service with bikes available at various locations.
Cycling Apps for Navigating London
To make your cycling journey smoother, consider using these apps:
- Komoot: For route planning and discovering new paths.
- Strava: Popular among cyclists for tracking performance and finding local rides.
Future of Cycling in London
The city’s commitment to cycling is evident with ongoing projects like the expansion of cycle superhighways and low-traffic neighborhoods (LTNs). These initiatives aim to make London even more cycle-friendly, reducing congestion and improving air quality.
Conclusion
Cycling in London is a fantastic way to explore the city, improve fitness, and reduce your carbon footprint. From leisurely riverside paths to challenging park loops, there’s a route for every cyclist. So grab your bike, hit the road, and discover London from a new perspective.
