If you're looking for a slightly different, more independent cycling experience in London, why not hire a bike and take a self-guided tour of lesser known London parts?
This leisurely and scenic ride follows the Thames eastwards, taking you along National Cycle Network Route 4 all the way to the world heritage site of Greenwich. Many a period drama has been filmed in the beautiful grounds of the Old Royal Naval College, including the recent hollywood adaptation of Les Miserables, so make sure you leave time to admire it's historic splendor, wander aimlessly through the narrow cobbled streets of the old town and browse an eccentric array of trinkets and nick nacks in the market.
The ride starts at our riverside bike hire HQ at 74 Kennington Road. Follow the river eastwards and you will pedal past the glorious Tate Modern art gallery and Shakespeare's historic Globe Theatre. If you're feeling peckish already don't forget to sample some of London's finest street food at Borough Market before hopping back on your bike.
Follow the designated cycle lanes along the A200 road, and if you want to catch a glimpse of our famous Tower Bridge keep an eye out for the left turn at Tower Bridge Road. Continue onwards along the A200 for a while before following the route back onto the riverside, where you'll enjoy some great views across to the East End of London. The ride continues through an atmospheric part of South London, with its streets lined with disused warehouses which have now been transformed into stylish apartments. There are plenty of winding alleyways to expore and quirky pubs in which to quench your thirst.
As you join the Thames Path again make sure you take a look back to see Canary Wharf across the water to your left. Very soon you will arrive in Greenwich, right at the doorstep (or should we say gangplank!) of the Cutty Sark, a beautiful 19th century tea clipper, now restored to its full finery. Here is a good place to lock your bike, leaving you free to explore the rest of Greenwich. If you've the time and energy it's worth taking a walk through the leafy expanse of Greenwich Park to the Royal Observatory. This beautiful building not only offers unrivalled views across London but also a great photo opportunity on the Greenwich Meridian Line. This marks the spot of 0º Longitude and the starting point of Greenwich Mean Time.
If you aren't feeling up to tackling the cycle back you can always take your bike back on the train from Greenwich to London Cannon Street, which is only a short ride from our offices at Gabriel's Wharf.
For more exciting cycle route ideas keep following our blog. Check out our vast range of bikes available for all the family to enjoy.
Happy cycling!