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London is far more cyclable than its reputation suggests, and seeing it from the saddle is one of the most rewarding ways to cover ground. Between the public hire scheme, a growing network of protected lanes and the vast royal parks, a visitor can ride past the landmarks or escape onto quiet, traffic-free paths within minutes. This guide explains how to hire a bike, where to ride, and how to do it safely.
Hiring a bike: Santander Cycles and e-bikes
The simplest option is Santander Cycles, London's public hire scheme, still fondly known as Boris bikes after the mayor who launched it in 2010. Docking stations sit across central London, and you pay a small access fee for the day and release a bike with the app or the terminal. Short journeys are inexpensive, so the scheme works best for hops between sights rather than long rides. Dockless electric bikes from operators such as Lime and Forest are now everywhere too, hired and parked through their apps, and make light work of London's gentle hills.
The best places to ride
For relaxed, mostly traffic-free riding, London's parks are the great pleasure. The Outer Circle of Regent's Park, the wide paths of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, and the deer-dotted roads of Richmond Park are all a joy. Away from the parks, the Thames Path and the Regent's Canal towpath offer long, calm routes through the city, and Transport for London's growing network of Cycleways provides protected lanes for crossing the centre.
Guided bike tours
If you would rather be shown around, several operators run guided tours taking in the royal parks and riverside landmarks, with the long-running London Bicycle Tour Company on the South Bank among the best known. A guided ride is a good way to build confidence with London's roads before setting off on your own.
Riding safely in London
A little preparation goes a long way. Traffic drives on the left, and you should ride assertively but predictably, using cycle lanes where they exist and taking care around large vehicles at junctions. Helmets are not a legal requirement in the United Kingdom but are widely recommended, and lights are required after dark. Planning a route on quieter streets and parks rather than the busiest arterial roads makes for a far more pleasant ride.
Good to know
How much do Santander Cycles cost?
You pay a small day access fee, after which shorter journeys carry only a modest charge and longer single rides cost more. Because the pricing rewards short trips, it is most economical to dock and swap bikes between sights rather than keeping one out for hours. Electric hire bikes from other operators are priced per minute.
Is cycling safe in London?
Cycling in London has become considerably safer as protected lanes have expanded, and millions of journeys are made each year without incident. The key is to choose sensible routes, stay visible, and take particular care around lorries and buses at junctions. Nervous riders should start in the parks and on traffic-free paths.
Do I need a helmet to cycle in London?
No, wearing a helmet is not a legal requirement in the UK, including on hire bikes. Many cyclists choose to wear one regardless, and it is a sensible precaution, especially if you are not used to riding in traffic.
Where to go next
For the full picture on moving around the city, see our guide to getting around London, or find more ways to spend a day outdoors in our things to do in London guides.
