Easter is here and what better time to get your bike out and explore London?
Dutch cycling experts at Swapfiets have curated top riding routes for every level of cyclist in the city.
This comes as Transport for London data reveals a 20 per cent surge in cycle journeys, with more than 1.26 million daily trips taken in the capital.
Katarina Hvlata, UK country manager and cycling expert at Swapfiets, said: "Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cyclist, London's bike-friendly infrastructure and blossoming greenery make spring the perfect time to discover the city's incredible sights, parks, and hidden gems by bike."
The routes are designed to accommodate all styles of cycling and types of bikes – from simple pedal bikes to high-tech e-bikes.
Each route has been ranked from easy to advanced, and complete with distance, time, and the best things to see along the way.
With that in mind, here is a roundup of cycle routes that will take you to iconic sights and the best views across north, east and central London.
A lap around Hyde Park – the beginner's ride
Distance: 3 miles
Time: 15 mins
Difficulty: Very Easy
Elevation: Flat
This route takes you from Hyde Park Corner past Speaker’s Corner and over The Serpentine – perfect for getting used to cycling while taking in the park's scenery, checking artworks at the Serpentine North Gallery, or admiring the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain.
Holborn to Primrose Hill – the best view in town
Distance: 5.2 miles
Time: 39 mins
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: Mostly flat
The route begins at the intriguing Hunterian Museum in Lincoln's Inn Fields, goes through King’s Cross and into Coals Drop Yard.
Here you can stop off at the Lightroom for an immersive experience, or grab a bite to eat at a trendy café along Regent's Canal, before heading onto Primrose Hill for stunning views of the city.
Shoreditch to Walthamstow – an easy ride through north east London
Distance: 5.9 miles
Time: 32 mins
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation: Mostly flat
Start from the quiet roads around Shoreditch Church, pass Columbia Road, and ride on up to Hackney City Farm, a great stop-off point with the chance to see farm animals in the centre of town.
Next head over the Regents Canal, and end at Walthamstow Market.
Hackney to Highgate Cemetery – Green spaces and Guinness
Distance: 5.2 miles
Time: 33 mins
Difficulty: Medium
Elevation: Mostly flat
This route is perfect for exploring north London's parks and green spaces.
Start at Hackney Central, cut through Hackney Downs Park, cross Shacklewell, visit Clissold Park and enjoy a coffee.
From there, navigate through Finsbury Park and treat yourself to a Guinness at The Faltering Fullback, before cycling up to explore Highgate Cemetery.
C3: Barking to Lancaster Gate – The Tour de London
Distance: 14.9 miles
Duration: 1 hour and 15 mins
Difficulty: Hard
The final route covers a well-known and scenic ride, nearly 15 miles long – perfect for breaking a sweat while marveling at some of London’s most iconic architecture.
It follows the C3 cycleway from beginning to end, taking in the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and the River Thames.
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