The best cycling routes around London
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Touring cycling routes around London navigate a diverse landscape, characterized by extensive urban green spaces, a network of waterways, and accessible natural areas just beyond the city limits. The region features numerous Royal Parks, such as Hyde Park and Richmond Park, alongside significant waterways like the Thames Path and various canal towpaths. While the immediate urban area is relatively flat, routes extending into areas like Epping Forest, the Surrey Hills, and the South Downs introduce varied terrain including ancient woodlands and rolling hills. This combination provides a range of cycling experiences from urban park loops to longer, more challenging country routes.
Best touring cycling routes around London
- The most popular touring cycling route is Forks of the Thames – King Street Bridge loop from London, a 12.0 miles (19.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 8 minutes to complete. This easy route follows the river, offering scenic views along the Thames.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Fanshawe Conservation Area loop from FanshaweDam, an easy 12.5 miles (20.2 km) path. This route traverses natural conservation areas, providing a tranquil cycling experience through varied parkland.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Forks of the Thames – King Street Bridge loop from Springbank Park, a 27.7 miles (44.6 km) trail leading through riverfront parkland, often completed in about 2 hours 55 minutes.
- Touring cycling around London is defined by its Royal Parks, extensive canal networks, and access to ancient woodlands like Epping Forest. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy urban loops to moderate routes exploring the surrounding countryside.
- The routes in London are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore London's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 22, 2026
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20.2km
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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43.8km
02:52
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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37.3km
02:11
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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38.6km
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Greenway Park is a large green space along the Thames River that includes sports fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and access to the Thames Valley Parkway and several other trails. It’s also one of the main access points to The Coves, with walking trails that lead into one of London’s most important natural reserves. Whether you’re visiting for recreation or a peaceful nature walk, this park is an excellent spot to use as a satellite base for exploring the area.
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The Thames River winds through southwestern Ontario, flowing for approximately 260 kilometres from its headwaters near Woodstock to Lake St. Clair. It’s London’s defining waterway, flowing beautifully through the city and connecting many of its parks, trails, and natural areas. The river’s forested banks, wetlands, and floodplain habitats support a diverse range of wildlife and create an important green corridor within the urban landscape. As a designated Canadian Heritage River, it is recognized for both its ecological significance and its role in the history of southwestern Ontario.
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Thames Valley Parkway is London’s primary multi-use trail system, following the Thames River and its branches through parks, woodlands, and beautiful riverside green spaces across the city. Spanning roughly 45 kilometres and connecting to more than 150 kilometres of additional pathways, it provides ample opportunities for walking, cycling, and running, with multiple access points. Despite its urban setting, most of the route offers beautiful river views, runs along mature forests, and provides access to some of London’s most notable parks and natural areas.
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Pottersburg Park is a beautiful mix of open fields, wooded trails, and riverside green space nestled along the Thames River. The park’s easy walking paths are a great place to enjoy views of the river corridor, mature trees, and local wildlife within an otherwise urban setting. It’s also home to one of London’s largest off-leash dog areas, making it a popular spot for dog owners, so you’ll likely get a chance to meet a few furry friends while you’re here.
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Fanshawe Lake is the focal point of the conservation area, stretching through a broad valley surrounded by forests, wetlands, and walking trails. Created by the construction of Fanshawe Dam, the lake is now a popular spot for paddling, rowing, fishing, and wildlife watching. This section offers wide views across the water and a chance to appreciate just how much green space surrounds the lake despite its proximity to London.
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Circling the entire Fanshawe Reservoir, the Fanshawe Lake Trail is a roughly twenty-kilometre loop that passes through mature forest, open meadows, shoreline sections, and a handful of creek crossings along the way. Built as a multi-use trail for both hiking and cycling, it offers a constantly changing mix of scenery rather than a single destination. The route follows the edge of the reservoir for much of its length, with regular views of the water and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in the surrounding wetlands and woodlands.
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Monkey Wrench branches off the main Fanshawe Lake Trail and heads into a section designed with mountain bikers in mind. The trail includes a variety of technical features such as log rides, balance elements, and small obstacles that can be ridden or bypassed. Even from the junction, it's easy to spot the difference between the wider lake loop and this more purpose-built trail tucked into the forest.
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London Bicycle Café, a turning point for casual riders who just want a nice and easy ride.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in London?
London offers a diverse selection of over 30 touring cycling routes. These include a mix of easy and moderate trails, with 22 routes classified as easy and 11 as moderate, ensuring options for various skill levels.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in London?
Yes, London is very accommodating for beginners, with 22 easy touring cycling routes. A great option is the Forks of the Thames – King Street Bridge loop from London, which is 19.3 km (12.0 miles) and follows the scenic Thames river. Another easy and tranquil choice is the Fanshawe Conservation Area loop from FanshaweDam, traversing natural parkland.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on London's touring cycling routes?
London's touring cycling routes offer a rich tapestry of landscapes. Within the city, you'll find extensive urban green spaces like the Royal Parks (Hyde Park, Richmond Park, The Regent's Park) and serene canal networks. Just beyond the city limits, routes extend into ancient woodlands such as Epping Forest, and rolling hills in areas like the Surrey Hills and the South Downs National Park, providing varied terrain from flat urban paths to more challenging country roads.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes near London?
Yes, for those seeking longer rides, London provides access to several extended routes. The Forks of the Thames – King Street Bridge loop from Springbank Park is a moderate 44.6 km (27.7 miles) trail through riverfront parkland. Beyond the immediate city, routes can take you into the Surrey Hills or even towards St Albans, offering challenging climbs and scenic country roads for a more extensive touring experience.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features to look out for on these routes?
London's routes are rich with scenic spots. You can enjoy views along the North Thames River and the Thames Valley Parkway. The Royal Parks, such as Richmond Park with its ancient woodlands and deer, and Hampstead Heath with its diverse wildlife and panoramic city views, are also popular. The canal networks offer peaceful, traffic-free paths, often passing by attractions like the London Zoo.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in London?
Many of London's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the Forks of the Thames – King Street Bridge loop from CF Masonville Place, a moderate 39.2 km (24.4 miles) route, and the Forks of the Thames – King Street Bridge loop from Fanshawe at Adelaide EB, an easy 23.1 km (14.3 miles) option.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in London?
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in London, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse terrain, from tranquil riverfront parkland to challenging country roads, and the extensive network of green spaces and dedicated cycle paths that make exploration enjoyable and accessible.
Are there any historical sites or attractions along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, several routes pass by interesting sites. You can cycle past the St. Thomas Elevated Park or visit the Reconstructed Indigenous Longhouse Village. The Thames Path itself is steeped in history, and many routes through central London will bring you close to iconic landmarks and historical areas.
How accessible are London's touring cycling routes by public transport?
London's extensive public transport network, including trains and the Underground, makes many cycling routes highly accessible. While specific routes may vary, the city's commitment to cycling infrastructure means many starting points are well-connected. For detailed information on bringing bikes on public transport, it's advisable to check Transport for London's official guidance.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in London?
Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in London, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, the city's extensive network of paths and green spaces can be enjoyed year-round. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, and even winter cycling is possible on well-maintained routes, though appropriate gear is recommended.
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