What with being a great form of exercise and an easy way to see the capital's sights, it’s little wonder cycling is so popular. And, with the temperatures warming up and the sun peeking through the clouds, there's never been a better time to hop on your bike. But it’s not all getting hot and sweaty on a commute to the office; check out our guide to London's prettiest cycling routes and paths below.
Regent’s Canal: Various Lengths
Whether you live in the East or the West, Regent’s Canal is connecting the two and is one pretty stretch to practise your pedal power. Winding past barges, parks and even London Zoo if you head that far, the cycle path is mainly flat, meaning you can take it at your own pace. We recommend aiming to go from Regent's Park to Victoria Park for some seriously snap-worthy views, plus stopping off at Lockside Camden along the way to refuel with tasty food and drinks.
It may be popular, but that doesn't stop Regent's Canal from being a great London bike ride.
Thames Path: Various Lengths
Stretching way out of London, the Thames Path is a gorgeous meander that follows the famed river. While some of the route is reserved for pedestrians, there are plenty of traffic-free paths for cyclists. The route ends (or starts) at the Thames Barrier in Greenwich, but you can also pick which part you want to cycle and jump on your bike there. If you decide to finish in Greenwich, reward your efforts by chomping on a lunch with a view at The Cutty Sark.
Taking you through the city, this is one of the best cycling routes in the UK.
Tamsin Trail: 7½ Miles
You know it, I know it, anyone who’s ever been within a 500-mile radius of London knows it, but that doesn’t stop Richmond Park from being bloody lovely. Grab your bike and cycle the whole thing on the Tamsin Trail, a loop that navigates the perimeter of the park, making sure you stop at King Henry’s Mound for an iconic view of St Paul’s and the City of London. And, of course, you'll need to refresh after, so swing by The Lass O' Richmond Hill for delish gastro grub.
One of the capital's most famous parks makes for a great getaway.
Wandle Trail: 11½ Miles
One of the better-known, traffic-free cycle routes in London, the Wandle Trail follows the river of a similar name, starting at Wandsworth and finishing in Croydon. As well as the gorgeous waterside views, the trip passes some interesting historical sites, including Merton Abbey Mills (which is also home to a pub, get in), Honeywood Museum, and the rather excitingly named Wilderness Island.
At one of the best London cycle routes, spend your day in the gorgeous nature of the Wandle Trail.
Peddler's Paradise at Lee Valley Park: 16 Miles
There are tonnes of pretty cycle paths in Lee Valley Park, but one of the more challenging is Peddler’s Paradise. Kick off at Gunpowder Park in Enfield to ride through two nature reserves, past urban farms, and a huge collection of glasshouses growing everything from lettuce to peppers. If Enfield is a bit northerly for you, there’s a similar route that starts at the Olympic Park in Hackney and follows the River Lea towards Epping Forest.
See some of the area's prettiest parts on one of the best cycle routes in London.
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