The Top Ten Cycling Routes in and around London
London has always been a great city to explore by bike, as it is nice and flat, super scenic, and cyclists in London are even allowed to ride in the bus lanes!
If you want to take in London and get from A to B as fast as possible, without being stuck underground, then get on your bike. With all COVID-19 restrictions in place, now is the perfect time to familiarise yourself with the London roads without all the traffic.
If you are a serious cyclist, here the top 10 cycling routes in and around London...
1. Richmond Park Loop
This is a very enjoyable 7.5 mile loop of this beautiful park, with some very good climbs and descents. On this loop you will stay on the main thoroughfare roads that form a ring in the park. Unfortunately there is a 20 mph speed limit (not heavily enforced to cyclists).
2. Col du Skelly Loop
This is an intermediate road ride with lots of climbing as the name of this ride gives away. Good fitness is required! Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the Tour which is Sydenham Hill is accessible with public transport.
3. Epping Forest Loop
This is a mix of deciduous woodland and grass heathland occupying a ridge on the north-east outskirts of London. Beautiful rides through the forest. Take your pick!
4. Boxhill Viewpoint Loop
Follow in the pedals of the pro peloton as you speed through some of south east England’s most accessible and beautiful scenery. The Surrey Hills have risen to become one of the UK’s must-ride locations. This is a 42 mile intermediate ride. Solid fitness required! Some portions of this loop are gravel road and difficult to ride depending on your choice of tires. The starting point of the Tour is accessible with public transport.
5. Alexandra Palace Loop
Alexandra Palace is located between Muswell Hill and Wood Green, in the north of the city. It was originally opened in 1873 but rebuilt in 1875 following a destructive fire. It was designed to serve as a public centre of recreation, education and entertainment and as north London's counterpart to The Crystal Palace in south London. This is an intermediate ride, 35 miles in total. Good fitness required!
6. London to Brighton
This epic ride is a must-do ride when you are in the UK and enjoying cycling. Why not join the official charity ride that takes place in June of every year and is super fun?!
https://www.bhf.org.uk/how-you-can-help/events/london-to-brighton-bike-ride
7. Boating Pond Loop
This is a ride for serious cyclist with extreme fitness. Lots and lots of climbing and great skill required for the descents. Mostly paved roads and 35 miles in total.
8. Dark Hill Richmond Park
This climb starts at the Kingston Gate car park and ascends in an anti-clockwise direction for a third of a mile at an average gradient of 6 per cent. Make sure you are fit and have your climbing legs on for this epic climb. The view at the top will make the pain worthwhile!
9. The Mall Loop from London Bridge
This is a 25 mile ride that the whole family can enjoy. Also a great recovery ride after a big day of climbing. Great for any fitness level and this ride will take you past all monumental London buildings. A feast for your eyes and soul.
10. Windsor Castle Loop from East Putney
This is an intermediate ride, which starts and ends at the stunning Windsor Castle. Good fitness is required for this ride as it is a fairly long one at 54 miles.
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Like the sound of some or all of these rides and you don't want to get lost when you are having an awesome time and you are out and about exploring, then go to www.komoot.com to download the cycle maps!
Happy cycling!