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

There are over 45 dedicated traffic-free road cycling routes in the London Borough of Havering, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes are designed to provide a safe and enjoyable ride away from vehicle traffic.

Havering offers a diverse landscape, from the flat marshlands around Rainham to gently rolling countryside. Many routes utilize dedicated cycle paths and quiet country lanes, providing a mix of easy, flat sections and some moderate climbs, particularly in areas like the Ingrebourne Valley.

Yes, Havering is well-suited for family cycling. The Ingrebourne Valley and Hornchurch Country Park offer a family-friendly, four-mile ride. Additionally, Thames Chase, home to Broadfields Farm and Pages Wood, provides 6.5 km of flat and easy shared-use pathways, perfect for families and new cyclists to enjoy a traffic-free experience amidst a forest setting.

You'll find a variety of natural beauty and points of interest. Consider exploring the marshland landscapes on the Rainham Marshes Path – View of the Thames at Purfleet loop. Other notable spots include Dagnam Park (The Manor), Albyns Farm Lake, and the Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre. Havering Country Park also offers picturesque grounds for cycling.

Many of the routes in Havering are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the The Bakehouse Cafe – Blackmore Tea Rooms loop from Upminster Bridge offers a moderate 57 km circular ride through the countryside.

The London Borough of Havering is enjoyable for cycling year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also great, especially for longer rides, while winter rides can be crisp and quiet, provided you dress appropriately.

Havering is well-connected by public transport. Many routes are accessible from train stations like Upminster, which serves as a starting point for routes such as the Upminster station – Country Lane loop. Rainham Station also provides access to routes through the marshlands. Check local transport links for specific route access.

Parking is generally available near many of the parks and starting points for these routes. For instance, areas around Hornchurch Country Park and Thames Chase often have designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific car park locations when planning your route.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.32 stars from 169 ratings. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of quiet roads and dedicated cycle paths, the beautiful green spaces, and the feeling of being away from city traffic despite being in London.

Yes, Havering offers several longer routes for those seeking a challenge. The Blackmore Tea Rooms – Buttsbury Ford loop from Upminster Bridge is a moderate 66 km ride, providing a substantial distance on quiet roads and through scenic landscapes.

Havering actively promotes cycling with initiatives like free cycle training and local clubs such as Hornchurch Cycling Club and Romford Cycling Club. You can find more information on local cycling resources and events on the Havering Council's website: havering.gov.uk/travel-1/cycling-walking.