Buying or renting a property in London needn’t leave you stuck in the city centre. There are plenty of picturesque destinations just a short bike ride away
With multiple benefits for both the environment and your health, cycling has never been more in vogue. If this conjures images of negotiating busy London traffic, fear not. There are plenty of peaceful cycling routes in London’s most desirable neighbourhoods.
Even if you live in an apartment block with no room to own a bicycle, there are plenty of places around London where you can hire a bike. Known to Londoners affectionately as Boris Bikes, the Barclays Cycle Hire scheme is the easiest way to rent a bike cheaply and quickly, with docking stations conveniently located around the city. For more information about the scheme, visit the Transport for London website.
Hyde Park: South Kensington (SW7)
With the scenic views of Hyde Park on your doorstep, South Kensington is a great destination for cyclists. There are a number of popular routes through the park, including cycling from Alexandra Gate to Hyde Park Corner, or from Hyde Park Corner along Serpentine Road. There’s plenty to see along the way, with routes circling the Serpentine Lake and the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial. Cyclists can stop off at the Serpentine cafe and bar, which offers views across the lake and a menu comprised of fresh, locally-sourced products.
Roland House, an apartment block of 94 apartments for rent in South Kensington, is owned and managed by Residential Land and conveniently has a docking station for the Barclays Cycle Hire located immediately outside the building on Old Brompton RoadChiswick House: Chiswick (W4)
The quiet and picturesque West London suburb of Chiswick is the ideal spot for taking in some British heritage. Starting with Barnes Railway Station, cycle left along The Promenade and enjoy the scenic view of the river. Continuing on the route to Chiswick Pier, cyclists will pass Chiswick’s sports ground and bandstand – sights that reinforce the area’s quaint village feel. On reaching the Pier, cyclists should turn left along Thames Crescent and continue towards Burlington Lane and the impressive grounds of Chiswick House, a breathtaking neo-Palladian villa built by the third Earl of Burlington in 1729. Those in need of refreshment can enjoy drinks and snacks at that cafe, while taking in the idyllic surroundings.
Hampstead Heath: Hampstead (NW3)
Despite being so close to London’s centre, Hampstead provides a country-style retreat a world away from the big smoke. Start your ride among the bustle of the small shops and pubs next to Hampstead Overground, cycling uphill towards Back Lane. When you reach the top of the hill, take a minute to pause and enjoy the views – it really does feel as if you’re at the top of London. Continue your ride down Inverforth Close, keeping to the left. Put down your bike and explore the Hampstead Pergola – a maze of beautiful gardens and architecture. Cyclists can then make their way back to Hampstead Lane and through the hilly meadows and stretches of greenery boasted by Hampstead Heath. The Wells gastropub is situated on the outskirts of the Heath, providing hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere.
Kensington Gardens: Lancaster Gate (W2)
Riding around this exclusive quarter, there are plenty of sights to see. Aside from the magnificent architecture of Christ Church and Kensington Palace, the impressive Kensington Gardens offer cyclists plenty of paths to ride through and enjoy the scenery. Close to Lancaster Gate tube station and just outside of Kensington Gardens is The Mitre pub, a long-standing local favourite. When planning a ride through the gardens, bear in mind that they shut at dusk and it can be difficult for cyclists to exit the park after this time.
Residential Land own and manage a number of beautiful period apartments for rent within Lancaster Gate, which conveniently has a docking station for the Barclays Cycle Hire located immediately outside and is just a stones throw from the cycle routes of Hyde Park.Portobello Road: Notting Hill (W10)
Whether it’s a stroll around Portobello Market or lunch in one of the numerous cafes, there is plenty of opportunity to while the day away here. Those wishing to work up an appetite beforehand could grab a ‘Boris bike’ near to Leicester Square and head towards St James Park, cycling up the Mall and Constitution Hill. Use the cycle routes through Hyde Park, keeping south. There is a cycle docking station just before Portobello Road, allowing you to spend the afternoon browsing this fashionable area on foot. Charlie’s Portobello Road Cafe offers a quintessentially British menu, perfect for a spot of afternoon tea.
Regent’s Park: St John’s Wood (NW8)
Fashionable north-west district St John’s Wood is regarded as one of the most desirable in London. One of its features is easy access to the attractive Regent’s Park. Catering for keen cyclists, the park has cycle racks at 15 different locations and 4.5 miles of park roads. While you are there why not stop for lunch in the delightful Garden Cafe, situated in the Inner Circle of the Park?
Along the Thames: Pimlico (SW1)
Peaceful Pimlico offers access to the sights of the River Thames. Bring your bike, or grab one from the cycle hire docking station on Claverton Street, and head west on the blue-painted bike path on the embankment. This route will take you past the Chelsea Physic Garden and Tate Britain. Go as far as you desire along the river, but if you do decide to head back to Pimlico, be sure to pop into Orange Public House & Hotel on Pimlico Road. With a casual atmosphere, elegant decor and vast menu, a visit here is the perfect end to an afternoon’s cycling.
Residential Land is one of the Capital’s largest private prime residential landlords, with a portfolio of over 1000 of properties to rent in Central London. If you are looking to rent in London, visit www.residentialland.com
