Best Cycle Routes in London

Cycling offers an environmentally conscious and scenic way to travel around the city, as well as being a fantastic way to stay active.

In celebration of National Cycle to Work Day on 6th August, we’ve got seven of the best cycle routes London has to offer. There’s something for everyone, from a leisurely pedal along the Thames to challenging yourself on a hillier ride.

Finsbury Park to Alexandra Palace

Distance: Approximately 6km

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city with this leafy cycle route.

You’ll start at Finsbury Park, and from there, you’ll head down the Parklands Walk, a lovely tree-lined trail that used to be a railway line. You will eventually reach Highgate, which is a pretty spot to stop off at before climbing back on the bike and making your way to Alexandra Palace. Get your breath back while you take in the views of the city, and see if you can spot the famous landmarks before heading back. 

Kings Cross to Notting Hill

Distance: Approximately 10km

This route is mainly flat and offers a beautiful way to witness London’s stunning surroundings.  

You’ll begin at King’s Cross before heading towards Regent’s Canal Towpath at Granary Square. From there, you’ll pedal past London’s Trellick Tower, and Camden Lock, before catching a glimpse of some of the animals at Regent’s Park Zoo. You’ll also ride through Marylebone, where you could stop and take a load off as you watch the world waterside at Little Venice. Eventually, you’ll go through Westbourne before taking the quaint back streets to Portobello Road and Notting Hill, where you can stop for a well-earned refreshment. 

Richmond Park

Distance: 10.9km

If you want to cycle like an Olympian, head to Richmond Park. This was the route that athletes took during the 2012 Olympics, before continuing to Box Hill. 

Richmond Park provides a stunning backdrop to a day of bike riding. The loop around the park is about 10.9km, which gives you plenty of time to take in the 2,500 acres of parkland, lake, and incredible views across London. You may even spot a deer or two on the way.

Riders here can choose the clockwise or anti-clockwise loop. The clockwise route is hillier thanks to Broomfield Hill, but you’ll then enjoy the long straight descent of Sawyer’s Hill. The anti-clockwise route is slightly less hilly, although it can also feel much longer to some. Eventually, you’ll descend Broomfield Hill before meeting up with other cyclists at the on-site café for a much-needed refreshment. 

Central London and the Royal Parks

Distance: Approximately 13km

This is a fantastic bike ride for families or anyone who wants to enjoy a traffic-free cycle around the heart of London.

You’ll start your journey at Horse Guards Road, St James Park, before heading up The Mall, the finishing line of the 2014 Tour De France. From here, you’ll pedal through Green Park, past the majestic Buckingham Palace and along Constitution Hill. Then, you’ll head under Wellington Arch where you’ll make your way around the cycle path along the edge of Hyde Park before crossing into Kensington Gardens. Don’t forget to stop and marvel at the lush greenery and try and spot iconic statues and memorials along the way.

The Wandle Trail

Distance: Approximately 20km

A beautiful traffic-free cycling route in London, ideal for a summer’s weekend. 

Beginning in Croydon, you’ll cycle along the Wandle Trail to Sutton and Merton before the River Wandle eventually joins the Thames at Wandsworth. As you ride, try and spot the hand-carved wooden benches and numbered bridges as you pedal through more than ten parks, including Beddington Park, Poulter Park, and Morden Hall Park. There are plenty of attractions along the way, including wetlands, a nature reserve, Merton Abbey Mills, Deen City Farm, and Wandsworth Museum.  

Battersea Park to Greenwich

Distance: Approximately 16km

If you want to tick off a few iconic London landmarks on your next bike ride, this one’s for you.

Starting at Battersea Park, you’ll cycle along the beautiful banks of the River Thames where you’ll look across at the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. You’ll take in many sights, such as the London Eye, The Globe, Tate Modern and Southbank. The route offers a combination of quieter roads and traffic-free paths so you can really soak up the attractions. Eventually, you’ll ride by Borough Market before reaching your destination of Greenwich Park, home to the Royal Observatory and Prime Meridian. 

Epping Forest Loop from Canary Wharf

Distance: Approximately 64km

This bike ride will test your stamina, but it’s worth it.

Starting at the incredible Canary Wharf, you’ll pedal through Victoria Park and Walthamstow Wetlands, the primary source of water supply for the people of London. You could hop off your bikes here if you wanted a short break to enjoy all the wetlands has to offer, including incredible scenery and stunning wildlife. Then, climb back on board to cycle between King George V and William Girling reservoirs before crossing over the bridge to arrive in Epping Forest. 

From here, you can choose from over 284km of shared-use paths to cycle around as you take in the breath-taking forest around you. To complete the loop, you’ll be headed back to Canary Wharf the same way you came. 

Tips for Safe Cycling in the Capital

London may be one of the busiest cities in the world, but it also has an incredible selection of cycle routes, many of which are traffic-free and ideal for both experienced riders and total novices. 

Whether you’re using your own bike or hiring one, here are some tips to help you stay as safe as possible next time you cycle around London.  

Plan Your Route 

Plan the route you’ll take around London using Google Maps or Cycleways to make sure you can get to your destination easily. Don’t forget to also check for road closures and traffic incidents on the Transport for London website before heading out, so you have time to plan an alternate route if needed. 

Protect Yourself

The Highway Code suggests cyclists should wear helmets, so ensure you’re protected before setting off. You’ll also need to wear bright coloured clothes when cycling during the day, and reflective clothes at night so other road users can clearly see you. Finally, provide regular maintenance to your bike to ensure it is in a safe, roadworthy condition. 

Be Seen

The law states that cyclists must have a working white front light, a red rear light, a red rear light reflector and amber pedal reflectors. Failure to do so may result in a fine. 

Follow the Highway Code

Ensure you’re familiar with how the Highway Code applies to cyclists to abide by the rules. For example, cyclists must stop at a red light, leave plenty of room for parked cars and lorries, and signal appropriately.

Keep it Locked

Unfortunately, bike theft is always a possibility, so it’s wise to invest in a quality bike lock to keep your bike as safe as possible.  

At Berkeley Group, we pride ourselves on creating homes that offer beautiful interiors and prioritise outdoor space, which is why our London apartments are well-connected, so residents can take full advantage of the cycle routes and green spaces nearby.

If you’re interested in making London your new home or are looking to upgrade to your dream property, take a look at the latest Berkeley developments available in London right now.