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More than 100 miles of protected cycle routes have been constructed in London since 2016 – which means there has never been a better time to explore the capital on two wheels
They used to be called Cycle Superhighways and Quietways; now, with new Cycleways, they’re merging into one nifty growing network. Why are they awesome? Well, they’re segregated from main roads or located on quiet back streets, parks and canals. The design is intended to make them safer – and they’re clearly signposted, so you won’t lose your bearings. Plus, they connect neighbourhoods across London, making it easier than ever to slot some exercise into your commute. To get you into gear, we’ve teamed up with Transport for London to bring you some spoke-tacular itineraries. And remember, no bike, no worries: you can hire a Santander Cycle from as little as £2. Now, get pedalling!
Remember to check the TfL Journey Planner before you travel.
Best for: Thames-side exploration
It doesn’t matter how many times you cycle beside the Thames; the experience is refreshing. This picturesque little riverside route in Kingston beside Hampton Court Park is part of the ever-expanding Go Cycle Kingston programme; you may find yourself stopping to take selfies as you pass lush parkland.
Best for: A super-chill Sunday
There is nothing like a morning trip to a farmers’ market to say, ‘I have entered a more wholesome phase of my life.’ Start this relaxing ride by winding past the river that runs through Enfield Park, then roll on towards the Sidings N21 farmers’ market for locally grown produce.
Best for: Sightseeing with a spot of shopping
Navigate busy King’s Cross with car-free ease as you zip past the British Library, pick up a treasure or two at Camden Market, then take a shady seat on a bench at Regent’s Canal Towpath.
Best for: A little bit of everything for the bike-curious person
Back in 2014, Waltham Forest was selected as one of three boroughs to receive funding for the ‘Mini-Holland’ programme, designed to improve the borough’s cycling infrastructure. These days, you can meander through pretty Walthamstow with its ancient parks, great shops and cute galleries and museums, before zipping across to Walthamstow Wetlands for some primo decompression (and rare goose-spotting) time. Want to get lost in greenery? Connect to the Whipps Cross-Millfields Park section of this Cycleway and explore Epping Forest’s 2,400 hectares.
Best for: A seamless connection to SE
Whether you’re in search of green space just south of the river or you’ve been craving a more low-key commute, you’re in luck: this route will take you from the new Elephant Park through to Burgess Park, with a connecting Cycleway to Camberwell.
Here is something that will ring your bell: TfL and the London boroughs will add an additional six Cycleways to the network this year. Get ready for Cycleways connecting Oval and Waterloo, Tower Bridge and Canada Water, and Finsbury Park and Highbury Fields, for a start. Explore the expanding network here.
If you’re still getting a handle on bike life, why not investigate the free courses available in your area? TfL funds classes tailored to new and regular cyclists – search ‘TfL Cycle Skills’ or visit your local borough’s website.
