Our Ultimate Guide to the Best London Cycle Routes

 

When you imagine cities best explored on your bike, you may think of obvious spots like Copenhagen and Amsterdam long before considering London.

This is because the city is best known for its congested roads and the London Underground as its primary form of transport.

But, the capital is quickly transforming into a cycle-friendly space.

With an influx of new cycle lanes, it's safer than ever to ride your bike in London.

During national lockdowns, cyclists had time to map out new, exciting routes all over the city. Some of these cycling routes explore parks, others follow rivers, and many take in London landmarks.

You can take countless twists and turns to uncover different areas.

But we recognise that you don't want to trudge through a bunch of average routes to find the hidden gems. 

So, we've done the hard part for you!

We've sourced the most enjoyable routes across London and sorted them by location.

Whether you're living in the northernmost or southernmost city limit, you'll find a nearby trail that'll take your breath away (and not just from the exercise).

Now - on your bike!

 

Why Cycle in London?

When there's such a comprehensive metro system in the city, you may wonder what's the point of cycling in London?

Our answer - it's fun!

Cycling is a way to get some exercise and gives you a sense of accomplishment when you get to your destination.

It also has benefits on your mental and physical health.

Plus, it's a great way to see more of your neighbourhood. If you take the tube everywhere, you miss out on all the sights between your starting point and endpoint.

We think this is a tragedy, and so we aim to introduce you to some cycles that aren't about getting to places you need to be.

Instead, they focus on seeing more of the city and enjoying the journey.

Safety When Cycling in London

First things first - safety.

Cycling in London can be intimidating. It's a city with famously busy roads - chockablock with cars, taxis, and buses in a hurry to their destination.

So, it's essential to take all the safety precautions possible.

When you ride a bike you're in a vulnerable position.

Though most of our bike routes stray away from busy streets in favour of open roads, it's important that, wherever you ride, you use safety measures to protect yourself. 

The most important way to do this is wearing bicycle helmet that is well fitted to your head.

Other than that, the best way to prevent injuries is wearing appropriate cycling clothes.

Now you've got a helmet and know what to wear - you can start your journey!

 

North London Cycle Routes

If you're a cyclist from North London, lucky you.

Heading out of the city's central hub onto quieter roads can take you to beauty spots like Epping Forest. Or, lead you out of London altogether to nearby areas, such as St Albans.

These places are only a stone's throw from many North London Boroughs but feel far removed from the bustle of the city.

That said, there are plenty of great spots for cycling that are closer to home than you'd think possible.

Whether it's through Finsbury Park or Camden Town, there'll be somewhere you can nip for a short ride nearby.

Our absolute favourite rides in North London are:

• Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park to Epping Forest
• Finsbury Park to Alexandra Palace
• Regents Park to St Alban's
• The North London Escape
• Swain's Lane to Hertford (or Potters Bar)
• Hampstead Heath

To find out more about the routes and reasons we love them - Click Here!

South London Cycle Routes

There is so much diversity in what you can see in one bike ride through South London.

You often begin your ride with cityscapes and end it with the pure countryside. It's so easy to venture into Surrey without travelling too far - and it comes with scenic rewards.

That isn't to disregard South London's own gorgeous journeys.

Right on the south bank of the River Thames, there are routes that are stunning in a different way. 

You have the opportunity to take in iconic skyscrapers all the while travelling on cycle paths that are removed from the danger of traffic.