London is a powerhouse of a city with plenty to see and do, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need a break every once in a while. Heading out to the countryside is a time-honoured tradition, and it’s one that can be done on your terms. If you’re a cycling enthusiast, then biking along country roads, through beautiful green valleys, and around charming villages is a great way to spend your spring or summer weekends. It’s a great experience on your own and one that’s even better with others. Therefore, if you want to get into biking and get some inspiration for where to take your bike, keep reading.
1. The Wandle Trail
This trail doesn’t technically take you out of London, but it certainly will feel like it. Here you’ll enjoy long, beautiful routes alongside London’s rivers and canals and really soak in the greenery around London without ever having to leave the city. The trail itself is around 20km long, so it’s a good day trip that is made even better by making pit stops at the many wonderful establishments you’ll find, like The Stableyard Café at Morden Hall Park.
You’ll be taken from the Thames to King George’s Park, see Carshalton Ponds, and even ride through Beddington Farmlands Nature Reserve. It’s named after the river you’ll essentially be following, the Wandle.
To do this route, you will want to look at high-quality single speed bikes to do the job. They can get you to where you want to be when leisurely travelling just as well as they’ll get you through the busy streets of London during the working week. This perfectly balanced bike is ideal for paved roads, is fun to ride, and is streamlined to make the most of your effort and go further on your trip.
Make sure to add a few accessories like a basket, mudguard, rack, and a spot for a water bottle.
2. Epping Forest
If you’re looking for a route that will take you out of London but is also within easy reach to get back at the end of the day, opt for the route that takes you from Olympic Park to Epping Forest. Epping Forest is London’s largest green space, with over 6000 acres of fields, woodland, and even wildlife. It’s the perfect area that you can explore on your bike. You can also manage the Epping Forest side of the route on a single speeder so long as it’s been dry lately. When you’re done, just get back on the Central Line at Epping Station, and you’ll be back at Liverpool Street in 40 minutes or less.
3. Camden to Cambridge
If you’re happy to turn your biking day trip into a weekend away, opt for the Camden to Cambridge route. It takes 106km to get there, but you’ll pass through Essex, Hertfordshire, and Cambridgeshire along the way. Though it’s long, this route is by far one of the flattest options on the list, making it a far more comfortable and easy ride, even on a fixie or single speeder. Just remember to pop into the many cafés, pubs, and rest stops along the way to really enjoy the experience.
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