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John Heard

London's Great gravel escape

So it's official - not only is London one of the vibiest and funnerest cities - it also has a bunch of epic gravel rides to choose from.


Emanating from the heart of the capital - heading North, South, East and West - take your pick and have an adventure on your doorstep!

And now - the lovely folk at Red Bull have compiled a handy list of the best for you to explore and enjoy.

Looking for a spot of gravel grinding in the city? From Thames-side escapes to ancient woodland romps, here are some of the best to get you started.

credit Matt Ray


And we at Wild Cycles are chuffed to have one of our faves listed @ no 9!

What we fondly refer to as London's Great Gravel Escape - forms part of our "Adventures on your doorstep" series and is now available for all to enjoy and share. Find details here of the route - and others - along with profiles and links to GPX's.

Our route winds its way out of the city along the Grand Union Canal before it throws you out into wild countryside on a mix of towpaths, gravel tracks and country lanes.


You'll be transported from the bustle of the big city and out into an entirely other world of rivers, canals, meadows and the rolling Chiltern Hills,"

says Wild Cycles' founder Jon Heard.


The first 30 or so ks are relatively flat, after which the route ramps up gradually for another 30. The final 30k is quite lumpy as you head into the hills proper, which includes some the finest rolling gravel and forest trails where you are rewarded with far-reaching views over the spectacular Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

You'd never think you were in London's backyard!


This epic route can be enjoyed - one-way (90km), hopping on the train to whisk you back into London - or if you're up for it - follow the Grand Union canal trail back - for a full 140km which will lead you into the heart of London @ Paddington Basin!


The bonus is that there are plenty of opportunities to refuel en-route in one of the many canal-side pubs or cafes.


If you like the sound of that and fancy making a weekend out of it - discover this epic route and others on a WILD Gravel Escape OVERNight camp

For all the details and to book go to:


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