East London is full of stylish neighbourhoods, great vibes and top-notch cycle routes. So if you’re a bicycle enthusiast, you’re probably wondering where to find the best cycle routes in East London.
If that happens to be the case, we’ve got some good news for you.
This guide covers the best trails in East London, allowing you to soak up the charm of the eastern postcodes.
So oil your chains, check the handlebars, and make sure your seat is comfortable before reading on for the best East London cycle routes.
1) From the East to Epping Forest
An off-road bike route for the entire family, this ride starts in Chingford and ventures into Essex’s Epping Forest.
Choose this route if you want to avoid busy roads and keep on the scenic trail.
There are 13 miles without any tarmac, which means it’s a fantastic ride for beginners.
Once in Epping Forest, why not extend your ride and enjoy a further 20 miles of paths and woodlands? Make the most of your surroundings and take in local nature during your bike ride.
It’s a trail suitable for the whole family, too, so you can enjoy the entire day and explore the best of the east’s green areas.
2) From Marshes to Wetlands
One of the best cycle routes in East London, this ride starts at Hackney Marshes and finishes off in the Walthamstow Wetlands.
The route is short and sweet – only around five miles long – and avoids London’s major roads. That makes it a great choice for beginners who want to avoid the capital’s busy streets.
Start your journey at the Hackney Marshes Centre and head along the River Lea, taking in the views as you go.
Next, you’ll pass the Walthamstow Marshes before arriving at the Wetlands, where you can enjoy the historic nature reserve and even do a spot of bird watching.
3) Lounging in Loughton
If you’re looking for a mega bike ride, then hop on the Lounging in Loughton trail.
It covers 42 miles of East London and lasts for around two-and-a-half hours.
Good fitness levels are required, but you’ll get to see plenty of the East of the capital as you set off on your journey.
The route starts near Hackney Wick station, and covers popular neighbourhoods, such as Stratford, Hackney, Walthamstow and Loughton.
There are also segregated cycle paths along the way, making it easier to navigate this route as you take in the best of East London.
4) Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Another five-mile ride covering East London, this route takes you from Tottenham all the way to the impressive Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Starting in Stonebridge Lock in the Tottenham marshes, you’ll again head south along the River Lea on the way to your destination.
Expect to see lots of sights on this route, including pretty canal boats, Grade II-listed buildings and scenic parks where you may want to stop for a spot of relaxation.
The best is saved for last, however, as you reach your destination at the Olympic Park in Stratford. From here, why not visit the impressive London Stadium and go down the Olympic Park slide?
5) Shoreditch to Stratford
Flex your hipster vibes, starting in one of London’s most iconic areas and heading to one of its newest hotspots.
This short trip lasts around five miles and begins in Shoreditch, the home Banksy art, world-class popups and cutting-edge fashion.
Along the route you can take in the local atmosphere in Shoreditch before passing Bethnal Green (where our Dressage Court building is).
The ride then cycles through both Victoria Park and Queen Elizabeth Park before finishing off in E15’s Stratford neighbourhood.
Best cycle routes in East London
These routes more than have you covered if you’re all about the east-end vibes — whether you’re looking for scenic rides or inner-city locations.
East London offers a diverse landscape, so you can enjoy a wide range of routes that cater to a variety of tastes.
And there are plenty of attractions and landmarks to enjoy along the trails, meaning you can make the most of the best cycle routes in East London.
