Top 6 Spring Cycle Rides In London

Last weekend finally marked the first warm days of spring. Now it’s time to trade in the parkas for polos and make the most of that Great British sunshine. After months of hibernation, get on your bike and discover a whole new way to explore London. Here are my favourite routes, mapped out by London's urban cyclists.

Museums, Street Art and Craft Beer in East London

Christine Buske

4.08 miles - Old Spitalfields Market to Crate Brewery

What makes this route special: East London is a vibrant part of the city, offering more sounds, sights and tastes than you could absorb in one day. With this cycle tour, you’ll get a real taste for this much-loved part of the city.

Who this appeals to: The beauty of this ride lies in its diversity – it appeals to everyone – but it’s also perfect for a girly day out.

The Markets and Squares of North London

Tom Bogdanowicz

7.09 miles - Smithfield Market to St. Bartholomew’s Norman Church

What makes this route special: Routing through some outstanding Victorian era squares, this delves deep into London’s past. You’ll witness a range of styles from Gothic to Italianate to Classical. The local markets here range from the crowded and multicultural, Brick Lane, to the opulent stalls in Spitalfields. Other than Broadway, which is only open on Saturdays, Sunday is the best day to head to the markets.

Who this appeals to: Great for those looking for some delicious ingredients you’d never get elsewhere or anyone looking for a bite to eat during the day.

Peckham’s Diversity

Alberto Serna

7.60 miles - Peckhamplex to Peckham Rye Arches

What makes this route special: From quaint cafés and art galleries to rooftop bars and independent cinemas, Peckham is authentic in every sense of the word. You’ll even come across a cosy park, perfect for unwinding after a busy week in London.

Who this appeals to: This route rewards anyone who wants to get off the beaten track, relax and discover a truly eclectic side to the capital.

The Rhythm and Style of East London

Fancy Lamp

6.32 miles - Brick Lane to the Palm Tree, Grove Road

What makes this route special: Cycling along Regents Canal is both atmospheric and a great way to get off the busy London streets. The city is renowned for art and fashion and the heart of which can be found in East London.

Who this appeals to: Well suited to art and culture lovers.

Heading North Through Markets and Waterways

Jakub Michalski

10.5 miles - Borough Market to Camden Town

What makes this route special: This part of London is blessed with an incredible selection of food, coffee and design hotspots. To get the most from the tour, visit during the week to avoid the weekend rush. Depending on how many stops you make, the route takes between three to six hours to complete.

Who this appeals to: Caffeine lover? You’ll come across some of the best coffee shops in the capital, with beautiful designs to top it all off.

A Laid-Back Ride Through South London

Hollie Richardson

7.29 miles - Borough Market to Dulwich Village

What makes this route special: You can’t beat a local market. Here in South London, cycle through boutique-lined streets and buy some gifts, before continuing through leafy serene parks. Make sure you bring a rucksack – you’ll need it to stow away the bits and bobs that you pick up along the way.

Who this appeals to: this is an easy route and cyclists of all levels will be able to enjoy the blend of nature and modern culture.

For more details about the routes, safety tips and how to hire a bike in London, visit the full London City Cycling Guide by Expedia.