Cycling

When cycling through London's busy traffic, it is essential to wear a helmet. Some people also opt for facemasks. Be seen by other road users, so wear reflective clothing.

Safety tips and picturesque cycle routes can be found on Transport for London, Sustrans and London Cycling Campaign website.

With a few simple precautions, cycling can be a fun way to get to know London!

Transport for London (TfL)

The Transport for London website features a host of useful resources for cyclists. You can order printed guides and maps covering the whole of London. Discover a host of leisure routes, find out about cycling training sessions, get advice on safety and even find out how to get a free health check for your bike!

Transport for London's Journey Planner is a handy tool for cyclists as well as those wanting to plan a journey on public transport. Use the advanced options to plan your cycle route.

Cycling for All

Cycling for All is a Croydon-based project which encourages cycling among disabled people. Affiliated to the nationwide project Wheels for All, Cycling for All provides instruction in the use of specially adapted cycles at Croydon Sports Arena.

Bike Hire

Several companies hire out mountain or hybrid bikes in good condition. Deposits of £100 to £200 are generally required (credit cards are accepted), regardless of rental period.

The London Bicycle Tour Company hires bikes at reasonable rates, with lower charges for longer rentals. It also offers daily three-hour bike tours of London, with or without hire.

OYBike offer bike hire from over 60 locations around Hammersmith and Fulham. Prices range from 30p for 15 minutes to £8 for the day. With virtually traffic free routes along the riverside, you can beat the traffic and enjoy the views at the same time.

Bicycles on London's Public Transport

Outside peak times, bicycles may be taken on the following Tube lines: District, Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan, and on some sections of other lines. (Peak times are Monday to Friday 7.30 – 9.30am and 4 – 7 pm.)

Folding bikes may be taken without restriction on all Tube lines, on the Tramlink, and on buses at the driver's discretion. The Docklands Light Railway only accepts folding bikes enclosed in a container.

For more details, see the Transport for London website, or call their information line on +44 (0)20 7222 1234, email: travinfo@tfl.gov.uk.

Restrictions on taking bikes on local trains and national trains vary from company to company, so you need to check before setting out. For details visit the National Rail Enquiries website or call +44 (0)8457 48 49 50.

Pedicabs

These three-wheeled cycle rickshaws that seat two or three people arrived on the scene in Soho in 1998. The best-known companies are Chariot Bikes and the non-profit Bugbugs, both of which monitor riders and are insured. However, this is not always the case and you are advised to check safety features and insurance before boarding.