You'll be amazed by the variety of stunning gravel routes in and around the capital. From super-chilled riverside cruises, traffic-free park and sweeping forest trails - to the green tunnel that'll transport you out of the big city and into the Chiltern's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - these are but a few of the many to choose from...
At Wild Cycles we love the freedom that riding a bike provides - and believe that it's the best way of discovering the endless natural beauty which surrounds us - some of which can be found - believe it or not - right here on London's doorstep.
Designed to inspire and have you smiling ... we've pulled together a collection of gravel routes to get you out and about on the trails around London and the surrounds. Let yourself be transported from the bustle of the big city and out into an entirely other world of rivers, meadows, forest and rolling hills.
Check out our fave top 3 routes:
1. North East: Wild Lee Valley and Epping Forest
You'll be amazed by what you'll discover while you're out on your bike - on a blend of river and canal-side tracks, sweeping gravel trails, forest paths and country lanes - and just how wild and remote it can be in London's backyard!
Remember if you're visiting London or surrounds and don't have a bike to enjoy these sublime rides - check out Wild Cycles' gravel bike hire.
Head east out of London from Victoria Park - where you'll soon join the picturesque Lee Valley on tow paths, cruise past the wild and beautiful Hackney Marshes and on out into the Essex countryside. The route links up with the Epping Forest which in itself offer an endless maize of sweeping gravel tracks.
If you fancy a spin down south - make sure you take in a tour of the vast natural expanse of Richmond Park. Designated a nature reserve - watch out for free-roaming deer - it's a haven for cycling with it's very own super-smooth and fast rolling gravel Tamsin Trail before heading out into the Surrey Hills.
Did you know you can ride out of central London (Paddington) and out into the countryside on a (virtually) traffic-free route through the "green tunnel"? The tunnel follows the Grand Union Canal, passing by picturesque marinas, canal-side cafe's and pubs. Transport yourself to the hills and into the spectacular Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
You can also head out of town by train to sample more sweet trails in the Chilterns. Situated on London's doorstep - this gem features stunning scenery and textured landscapes - providing some of the most sublime gravel trails within an hour of the capital. Explore this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on an endless blend of country lanes, farm tracks, trails and bridleways. Including a section of the Ridgeway - Britain’s oldest road. Sweep through the stunning Ashridge National Trust Estate with its smooth gravel trails meandering through ancient wooded lanes....complete with cool bike caffs. Easily accessible by train (30mins) from Euston Station to Tring.
ride in beautiful places
We're working up another season of magic for 2024 and will be rolling out the details and dates in coming weeks.
In the meantime for a flavour of what's brewing - please check out:
Next ride: 17/12 Masons Solstice Social - part of stohk's short day out
Thanks @markovichjames for contributions of inspired route design.
NB
Wild Cycles is not responsible for - nor can vouch for any changes in landscape, conditions, route features, road layouts since these were initially planned and published on Komoot.
Familiarise yourself with the route distances, profiles and conditions and make yourself aware of the risks and hazards associated with undertaking your chosen route.
You are responsible for your own safety.
Know your capabilities and limits and adapt the routes to suit your ability and your preferences.
With the exception of any liability which cannot be excluded by law, Wild Cycles Limited shall have no liability for any loss or damage you may suffer as a result of your ride. Furthermore, you will indemnify and hold Wild Cycles Limited, its officers, agents and employees harmless from and against any and all expenses, losses, liabilities, damages and costs of any type incurred or suffered and any claims or legal proceedings which are brought or threatened, in each case, arising from participation in your chosen ride.