The best traffic-free bike rides around the London Borough Of Havering

The London Borough of Havering offers a significant number of options for touring cyclists seeking routes away from traffic. There are over 40 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes available, catering to various skill levels.

Yes, the London Borough of Havering is very welcoming for beginners and families. Out of the available routes, 21 are classified as easy, providing gentle terrain and shorter distances perfect for a relaxed ride. For example, the Albyns Farm Lake – Ingrebourne Hill summit loop from Hornchurch is an easy option that covers about 15.8 km.

You can expect a diverse range of natural landscapes. Routes often traverse significant green spaces like Havering Country Park, the vast Thames Chase Forest, and the ecologically rich Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve. You'll also encounter the scenic Ingrebourne Valley Nature Reserve, Hornchurch Country Park, and Raphael Park, offering woodlands, meadows, wetlands, and picturesque lakes.

Absolutely! Many routes pass by interesting points. You might cycle past the historic Dagnam Park (The Manor), or enjoy the tranquil Albyns Farm Lake. The Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre is also a great stop. Other notable attractions in the wider area include the historic Upminster Windmill, Langtons House and Gardens, and Romford Market for a cultural stop.

Many of the green spaces and nature reserves in Havering, such as Hornchurch Country Park and parts of the Ingrebourne Valley, are generally dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a lead in certain areas to protect wildlife. However, specific policies can vary, especially in sensitive areas like Rainham Marshes. It's always best to check local signage or the specific park's website for the most up-to-date dog policies before you go.

The best time to cycle these routes is generally from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder, and the paths are less likely to be muddy, especially after heavy rain. Spring offers blooming flora, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Winter cycling is possible, but some unpaved sections might become wet and muddy.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Havering are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the Ingrebourne Hill summit – Ingrebourne Bike Track loop from Rainham, which offers a convenient circular experience.

Parking is available at various access points for the green spaces and nature reserves that host these routes. For instance, there are car parks at Havering Country Park, Hornchurch Country Park, and near the Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre. It's advisable to check specific park websites or local council information for parking availability and any potential charges.

Havering is well-connected by public transport, making many routes accessible. Local train stations (e.g., Elm Park, Harold Wood, Rainham) and bus services provide access to various starting points. National Cycle Network (NCN) route 136 also passes through Havering, linking key green spaces and public transport hubs. For detailed planning, you can consult the Transport for London website for bus and train information.

The terrain on Havering's no-traffic routes is varied. You'll find smooth, paved paths within parks, as well as more rugged byways and country paths through nature reserves and woodlands. Routes like the View of the Thames at Purfleet – Ingrebourne Hill summit loop from Elm Park offer a mix of surfaces, generally with gentle elevation changes, making them suitable for touring bikes.

Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments. Many routes pass through or near local towns and villages where cafes, pubs, and shops are available. Larger green spaces like Rainham Marshes and Ingrebourne Valley often have visitor centres with cafes. For longer rides, such as The Viper – Blackmore Tea Rooms loop from Emerson Park, planning stops in advance can enhance your experience.

The London Borough of Havering is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the abundance of green spaces, and the diverse natural beauty, from marshlands to woodlands. The accessibility from London and the variety of routes for different skill levels are also frequently highlighted.