With so many green spaces, London is a great place to hop on a cycle and go for a bike ride.
With so many expansive green spaces, riverside paths, and traffic-free routes, South London is one of the best places in the capital to explore by bike. Whether you’re a casual cyclist, weekend explorer, or a dedicated rider training for endurance, there’s a perfect route waiting for you.
In this updated 2025 guide, we’ve rounded up five of the best cycle routes in South London. Each trail showcases the area’s blend of scenic parks, vibrant neighbourhoods, and riverside beauty.
1) Richmond Park
One of the most iconic places to cycle in London, Richmond Park is an ideal escape from city life. With its rolling hills, herds of deer, and sweeping views, it offers a taste of countryside in the capital.
Start your journey at Kingston Gate, then head down Queen’s Road. Complete a full loop before exiting at Sawyer’s Hill. This route is approximately 7 miles long and moderately challenging — perfect for weekend riders.
Highlights:
- Richmond Park’s free-roaming deer
- Stop at Pembroke Lodge or Roehampton Café
- Stunning viewpoints like King Henry’s MoundHead to one of London’s most popular open spaces and go on a bike ride that embraces country life in the city.
- Richmond Park is one of the most cycled green spaces in London, and for a good reason. There are deer, picturesque spots and great cafés to see and visit along your journey.
Fun fact: it was createdi n the 1625 century by King Charles I and was originally called New Park. Soak up the rolling greens, admire local wildlife and pedal around this delightful park before exiting at Sawyer’s Hill.
2) The Battersea Park Loop
We did say that South London has an abundance of green spaces, and they’re perfect for cycling thanks to the scenic settings and traffic-free routes.
If you’re short on time but still want to stretch your legs (and wheels), the Battersea Park Loop offers a scenic, family-friendly cycle. The route is entirely traffic-free and consists of smooth tarmac paths.
Route Length: Approx. 1.7 miles
Perfect for beginners, kids, or a gentle lunch-hour cycle, this loop takes you past the Peace Pagoda, Battersea Park Zoo, and Pear Tree Café for a mid-ride snack.
Nearby Attractions:
- Albert Bridge views
- Boating Lake
- Pump House Gallery
3) The Wandle Trail
This 14-mile route follows the River Wandle from Wandsworth to Croydon, passing historical mills, wetlands, and beautiful parks. It’s one of South London’s most characterful bike trails, filled with industrial heritage and nature.
Key Stops:
- Morden Hall Park (National Trust site)
- King George’s Park
- Wandle Delta
If you're a nature lover or a history enthusiast, this route is a must. There are also plenty of cafes and pubs en route to keep you fuelled.
Explore more: Best cycling routes in London
4) Brixton to Crystal Palace
Cycle the 3.5 miles between Brixton and Crystal Palace to explore quintessential South London.
This 3.5-mile ride begins in vibrant Brixton, winds through Brockwell Park, and climbs into Crystal Palace via Gypsy Hill — a real leg-burner but worth the views and village vibes at the top.
Route Tips:
- Stop at Brockwell Lido Café for coffee
- Enjoy the leafy West Dulwich streets
- Celebrate your hill climb with lunch on ‘The Triangle’
This route gives you the full South London experience — music, culture, green space, and a challenging climb to finish.
5) Hampton Court to Putney (Thames Path Route)
You will need to walk some parts of this route with your bike should you wish to do the entire 184-mile Thames Path, as part of it is pedestrian-only.
This route delivers stunning riverside views from Hampton Court Palace to Putney, with a mixture of urban and natural landscapes. Stick to the cyclable portions of the Thames Path, avoiding pedestrian-only areas.
Distance: Approx. 10.5 miles
Points of Interest:
-
Bushy Park and deer herds
-
Twickenham riverside pubs
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Putney Embankment
It's a peaceful ride ideal for a sunny day out and offers lots of places to stop and admire the Thames.
The best cycle routes in South London
You don’t need much encouragement to hop on a bicycle and explore south London. It has some of the best trails in the capital and offers a great mixture of green rides and peaceful routes along the River Thames.
The next time you’re cycling through the south, make sure you take some time to ride some of the routes on our list and enjoy the best of south London.
Explore our other cycle route guides:
FAQ: South London Cycling (2025 Edition)
Is South London good for cycling?
Yes, South London is excellent for cycling, offering a mix of quiet park trails, riverside paths, and scenic urban routes. It’s ideal for all experience levels.
What is the most scenic bike route in South London?
Richmond Park is widely considered the most scenic, thanks to its countryside feel, roaming deer, and panoramic views.
Are there traffic-free cycling routes in South London?
Absolutely — the Battersea Park Loop and large sections of the Wandle Trail are traffic-free, making them perfect for beginners and families.
Can you cycle the whole Thames Path?
No, some parts are pedestrian-only. However, sections like Hampton Court to Putney are fully cyclable and popular with riders.
Where can I rent a bike in South London?
You can use Santander Cycles (Boris Bikes) in many parts of South London, or rent from local bike shops near Clapham, Brixton, or Richmond.
