London

Bike Tours

London bike tours: Everything you need to know

Biking across London allows you to appreciate the city's cultural venues and historic attractions. Stop by the local pub or café for tea and crumpets or a bite of fish and chips on your way. With a full belly, hop back on your bike and burn through those calories while experiencing the rest of the city.

What sights can you expect to see on a London bike tour?

Choose from a number of unique London bike tours and experience the city on your terms. Some tours allow you to participate with a venue request. The guide will then arrange the tour to suit your preferences.

Buckingham Palace

On more structured tours you'll be able to see attractions like Buckingham Palace, the Queen’s London home. Inside, the estate boasts 775 rooms and 78 bathrooms. You may find yourself lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Queen, Prince Philip, or even one of Her Majesty’s prized corgis waltzing across the 39-acre garden.

Westminster Abbey

Tours also often take you through Westminster Abbey, where you will see the coronation church that was built in 1066. With over a million people viewing the still-active church annually, you may run into some crowds. On your bike tour, however, you can learn all about its famous ceremonies without having to wait in line.

East End

Some tours will take you through London’s historic east end. You can travel along the banks of the Thames or pedal past the Tower of London and hear about the castle’s history as a prison as well as a royal palace. You can also travel above The Tower Bridge to the Glass Floor that allows you to see almost 140 feet below you. You may even see the bridge open as you stand above it.

Hyde Park

Stop by Hyde Park on your way through the heart of London. Set up for large scale events and concerts, this bountiful park offers enough space for loud crowds as well as quiet passersby. Put on the brakes when you see the Diana Memorial Fountain, reflecting Princess Diana’s life and her open, welcoming personality. The queen oversaw its construction and opened the fountain to the public in 2004. She made sure to use top-notch talent and tools.

How long do the bike tours last?

• Most London bike tours last 3-4 hours. 
• Your tour guide will offer insight into the history of the area and share little-known stories. 
• You can also choose from a range of time slots and ask all the questions you want, finding out the facts from a local perspective.

How difficult are bike tours in London?

• Bikers of all skill levels are welcome. The terrain mostly consists of small hills and minimal twists and turns, encouraging young and elderly cyclists to join the tour. 
• If you have special accommodations or concerns, let your tour guide know at the beginning of the tour. 
• Be sure to take a peek at the section of the tour description labeled “not suitable for” and the one marked “important information” to get details about the specific London bike tour you are considering.

What do you need to prepare for a London bike tour?

• The majority of the bike tours provide you with a bike, helmet, and reflective vest. 
• Pack extra money for refreshments or a couple bottles of water and some snacks in your backpack. 
• Check the weather forecast to make sure you are dressed comfortably for the excursion. London is known for its rain, so think ahead and pack an umbrella or raincoat. 
• Don't forget to bring a camera as you will be riding past a plethora of sites you will not want to forget.

What are some bike tours in London that offer something unexpected?

The Secret London Tour by Bike leads you downside roads and alleys to give you the opportunity to enjoy London from an insider’s perspective. Listen to stories of scandal spanning over the years of London’s history. Bike through the financial district and imagine a time when polar bears were spotted in the River Thames. Covering about 15 miles, the river offers easy access for goods and transportation in and out of London.