Your Ultimate Guide to Cycling in London: Routes, Cycling Clubs and Essential Tips

So, you're thinking about cycling in London? Or perhaps you're a seasoned rider looking for new routes and a community. Whatever your level, navigating the capital on two wheels can be one of the most rewarding ways to experience the city.

Here at London Clarion Cycle Club, we're passionate about making cycling accesible, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. This short guide is your starting point for embracing life on two wheels in our amazing city.

Why Cycle in London? More than just beating the traffic

Before we dive into the 'how', let's remember the 'why'. Cycling in London isn't just a commute; it's a lifestyle. It's your daily dose of exercise, a surefire way to boost your mental health, the most effective way to bypass traffic jams, and a surpsingly beautiful way to discover hidden corners of the capital you'd miss on the Tube or bus.

Finding Your Perfect London Cycling Route

One of the biggest barriers for new cyclists is knowling where to ride. The good news is that London's cycling infrastructure is better than ever.

• Cycling Superhighways: These are the backbone of cycle commuting in London. Look for the continuous, signposted routes like C1 Edmonton to the City or C3 Hyde Park to Barking. They are designed to get you across the city efficiently.

• Quietways and the "Mini-Holland" Schemes: Prefer a more relaxed ride? Quietways use backstreets, parks and low traffic roads, perfect for a less stressful journey. Boroughs like Waltham Forest have led the way with tranformative "Mini-Holland" schemes, creating neighbourhoods where people and cycling truly come first

• Grand Parks and Canals For a traffic free escape, you can't beat a loop through Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens or a ride along the Regent's canal from Little Vencie to Camden. These are perfect for a sunny weekend ride.

• Planning Your Journey: Use apps like Cycle Streets and Kamoot, or TFL's cycle journey planner, to help you find the safest and most direct London cycling routes for your needs.

Joining a Cycling Club in London: Why Ride Alone?

Cycling is great solo, but it's even better with others. This is where joining a cycling club in London like ours at London Clarion Cycle Club can transform your experience.

• Safety in numbers: Gain confidence riding in a group

• Discover new routes: Our ride leaders know some of the best London cycling routes that you won't find on a map.

• community and Camaraderie: We're a friendly bunch! From social cafe stops to post ride chats and pints, it's more than just the bike.

• Rides for All abilities: Whether you're looking for a gentle beginner friendly bike ride in London or a more challenging ride out into the Surrey Hills, a good cycling club will have a ride for you! (Pssst... Check out our rides page to see our upcoming rides and events!

Essential Tips For Your First London Cycle Commute

Feeling ready to take the plunge? Here are our top tips for a smooth start:

1. Be Prepared: A cycling helmet, lights, and a good D-lock are non negiotatble. A puncture repair kit and a mini pump will save you a long walk home.

2. Plan and Do a Test Run: Try your new cycle commuting route on a quiet weekend to build confidence without the weekday rush.

3. Be Predictable, Not Polite: Signal clearly, hold your line, and make eye contact with drivers. Confidence is key to beeing safe.

4. Explore Bike Storage: If you don't have sp[ace at home, check if your local station has cycle hibs or secvure parking.

Ready to Explore London on Two Wheels?

Cycling opens up London in a way no othr method of trasnport can. It connects you to the city, to nasture, and to a fantatsic community of like-minded people.

At London Clarion Cycle Club we have been cycling in London for over 130 years!

Want to ride with us? You can join London Clarion Cycle Club from just £10 for 2026! Join now