The best traffic-free bike rides around London

Komoot offers over a dozen dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes in and around London. Most of these, specifically 12, are rated as easy, making them accessible for various skill levels, while 3 are moderate.

London's traffic-free routes offer a diverse range of landscapes. You can cycle along the iconic River Thames and its canals, through expansive parklands like Richmond Park and Epping Forest, or explore the linear green spaces of Lee Valley Regional Park. While many routes are flat, some areas, particularly within Richmond Park, offer gentle inclines.

Yes, many of the traffic-free routes in London are designed as loops, offering convenient circular tours. For example, the Forks of the Thames – King Street Bridge loop from London is an easy 19 km option, and the Fanshawe Conservation Area loop from FanshaweDam offers a 20 km ride through natural settings.

Many routes offer opportunities to see notable attractions. Along the Thames, you might encounter historical sites and iconic landmarks. Specific highlights include the St. Thomas Elevated Park, the scenic North Thames River, and the Reconstructed Indigenous Longhouse Village. The Thames Valley Parkway is also a popular cycling path.

Absolutely. Many of London's traffic-free routes are ideal for families due to their flat terrain and safe, segregated paths. The extensive parklands like Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, and sections of the Lee Valley Regional Park provide gentle rides in beautiful surroundings, perfect for all ages. Routes like the Kiwanis Park - South loop from London are easy and suitable for a family outing.

The komoot community highly rates traffic-free cycling in London, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the stunning natural beauty of the parks and waterways, and the ability to explore the city's green spaces away from urban traffic.

London's extensive public transport network, including trains and the Underground, provides good access to many starting points for traffic-free cycling routes. It's advisable to check specific route access and any restrictions on carrying bikes during peak hours when planning your trip.

While many routes are shorter loops, areas like the Lee Valley Regional Park offer extensive networks that can be combined for longer rides, stretching up to 26 miles. The Forks of the Thames – King Street Bridge loop from Springbank Park is a moderate 44 km route, providing a longer option for touring cyclists.

Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant weather for cycling, with longer daylight hours and blooming landscapes. However, London's parks and canal paths are accessible year-round. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, and even winter rides can be enjoyable on crisp, clear days, though some paths might be muddy after rain.

Yes, London's network of canals, such as the Regent's Canal, offers tranquil, traffic-free paths through urban waterways. These towpaths provide a unique perspective of the city, connecting various parks and neighborhoods away from road traffic.

For beginners, routes within London's Royal Parks like Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, and Bushy Park are excellent choices, offering gentle, flat paths. The King Street Bridge – Forks of the Thames loop from London is another easy option, covering 23 km with minimal elevation gain.