10 Best Cycle Routes in London. London is one of the most exciting cities for road cycling enthusiasts, with a wealth of beautiful and challenging routes to explore. From scenic parks to historic landmarks, there’s something for every type of rider.
Riding a bike in London, like any other city, comes with some level of risk. However, the city has made significant investments in cycling infrastructure in recent years, including dedicated bike lanes, cycle-friendly traffic signals, and increased bike parking. These measures have helped to make cycling safer for both commuters and recreational riders.
That being said, it’s still important to follow traffic rules and be aware of your surroundings while riding a bike in London.
Wearing a helmet, using lights and reflectors at night, and obeying traffic signals and signs can also help reduce the risk of accidents. Additionally, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the routes you plan to take before setting out and to choose quieter roads and bike paths whenever possible.
Here are 10 of the best road cycling routes in London:
The Regent’s Park Loop:
This route takes riders through the beautiful Regent’s Park, with its serene lakes and lovely gardens. It’s an excellent option for a leisurely ride in the heart of the city.
The River Thames Path:
Following the Thames from Putney to Greenwich, this route offers stunning views of the city, as well as a flat and easy-to-follow path
The Outer Circle:
This is a well-known route that takes riders through some of London’s most iconic neighborhoods, including Camden, Regent’s Park, and Kilburn.
The Green Chain:
This route takes riders through some of the city’s most beautiful green spaces, including the Forest of Middlesex and Peckham Rye.
The Lee Valley Loop:
This route offers a peaceful escape from the city, taking riders along the Lee Valley Park, with its rolling hills, peaceful river, and stunning views of the city.
The Grand Union Canal:
This route follows the Grand Union Canal from Little Venice to Paddington, passing through picturesque locks and rolling countryside along the way.
The Olympic Park Loop:
This route takes riders through the legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games, including the Olympic Park, the Velodrome, and the Aquatics Centre.
The Hilly Hell:
This route lives up to its name, taking riders through some of the city’s steepest hills, including Parliament Hill and Primrose Hill. It’s a great challenge for experienced riders.
The Hill Circuit:
This route takes riders through some of the city’s most beautiful parks, including Greenwich Park and Hampstead Heath, with stunning views of the city from the top of each hill.
The Richmond Park Loop:
This route takes riders through one of London’s largest Royal Parks, with rolling hills, scenic lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. It’s a peaceful escape from the city that’s still within easy reach.
Each of these routes offers a unique experience for road cyclists in London, and whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Cycling in London has seen a significant increase in recent years due to the city’s efforts to promote sustainable transportation and improve air quality. The city has made investments in infrastructure, including dedicated cycle lanes and bike parking facilities, making it easier and safer for people to cycle.
“Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race.” – H .G. Wells
