5 Great Summer Rides You Can Do Without Leaving London

London's summer in just around the corner and with it, it brings longer evenings and (occasionally) sunny weekends perfect for exploring on two wheels. You don't need to escape to the countryside for a great ride - some of the best cycling routes are right here in the city.

Here are five of our favorite London rides, complete with places to stop for coffee and snacks. These routes work for all levels, whether you're on a Brompton, a Santander bike, or your trusty old road bike.

1. The Regent's Canal Towpath: Angel to Victoria Park

Distance: About 5km (one way) Vibe: Leisurely, flat, and car-free

This is our go-to after-work ride when I need to clear our head. Start at Angel, where you can easily access the canal path, then head east along the water.

You'll pass the charming narrowboats of Little Venice, the edge of Regent's Park, and through the bustling Camden Lock area (you might need to walk your bike through the busiest bits on weekends).

As you continue, the path becomes less crowded, winding through peaceful stretches before opening up to the green expanse of Victoria Park.

Best pit stops:

• The Towpath Café near Whitmore Bridge - a tiny canalside spot with incredible coffee and simple, seasonal food. Their toasted cheese sandwiches are life-changing.
• Pavilion Café in Victoria Park - right by the lake with excellent pastries and brunch options.

Pro tip: This route is beautiful at sunset. The buildings along the canal glow, and you'll often spot herons fishing in the quieter stretches.

2. The Thames Path: Putney to Richmond

Distance: 7km (one way) Vibe: Scenic riverside with a countryside feel

This route feels like you've left London altogether. Start at Putney Bridge and follow the Thames Path west along the river.

You'll pass the rowing clubs of Putney, then enter a greener world as you approach Barnes. The path continues through meadows and past Kew Gardens on the opposite bank, before reaching Richmond's riverside pubs and cafes.

Best pit stops:

• Tide Tables Café under Richmond Bridge - riverside seating and homemade cakes.
• The White Cross pub in Richmond - a proper pub with a riverside terrace that floods at high tide (they post tide times on the door so you don't get stranded!).

Pro tip: Check the tide times. At very high tides, parts of the path near Richmond can flood.

3. Royal Parks Loop: Hyde Park, Green Park, St. James's

Distance: 8-10km (depending on detours) Vibe: Green oases with royal views

This is the perfect Sunday morning ride before the crowds arrive. Start at Hyde Park Corner and do a loop of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, passing the Serpentine Lake.

Exit near Buckingham Palace, cut through Green Park, then loop through St. James's Park with its lake and pelicans. You'll feel like you're in a royal procession with views of palaces, statues, and perfectly manicured gardens.

Best pit stops:

• The Lido Café at the Serpentine - right by the water with outdoor seating.
• Tomtom Coffee on Elizabeth Street near Buckingham Palace - great for a quick caffeine fix in a posh setting.

Pro tip: Go early (before 9am) on weekends. These parks get incredibly busy with tourists from late morning onwards.

4. Hackney Marshes to Olympic Park Loop

Distance: 10km (loop) Vibe: Urban regeneration meets wild spaces

This ride shows off East London's renaissance while keeping you mostly off-road. Start at Hackney Wick station and head north along the River Lea to Hackney Marshes.

Loop around the open spaces of the marshes, then head south to explore the transformed Olympic Park with its striking architecture and newly established gardens.

Best pit stops:

• The Breakfast Club at Hackney Wick - canal-side seating and indulgent brunch (expect queues on weekends).
• View Tube near the Olympic Stadium - a quirky café in repurposed shipping containers with views of the stadium.

Pro tip: Stop by Hackney Wick's craft breweries on the return leg. Most have outdoor seating in summer and don't mind sweaty cyclists.

5. Wandle Trail: Wandsworth to Croydon

Distance: 20km (full trail) Vibe: Hidden river journey through South London

This is South London's secret gem. Follow the River Wandle from its meeting with the Thames at Wandsworth all the way to its source in Croydon.

The route is mostly traffic-free, following a surprisingly green corridor through south London. You'll pass historic mills, parks, and the charming Merton Abbey Mills craft market.

Best pit stops:

• Deli Garage in Earlsfield - great sandwiches and coffee just off the trail.
• Merton Abbey Mills - weekend market with food stalls in a picturesque former industrial setting.

Pro tip: The route isn't perfectly signed throughout. Download the GPS track before you go or grab a paper map from Transport for London.

Summer Riding Tips

London summer rides come with their own challenges:

Stay hydrated. Our rare hot days can be intense. Carry more water than you think you'll need.

Pack a lightweight layer. Even in summer, sudden showers happen. A packable windbreaker takes up minimal space.

Bring a lock. You'll want to stop and explore, so don't forget security.

Carry your helmet easily. This is where our Newlane folding helmet comes in handy - it packs down to half the size in seconds, so you can easily stow it in a backpack or bag when you're exploring off the bike.

Whether you're riding for an hour after work or making a full day of exploring, these routes showcase London's surprising green spaces and waterways. The city transforms when seen from a saddle, revealing hidden gems you'd miss from a bus window or Underground car.

Happy summer riding, London!