The best cycling routes around the London Borough Of Havering

The London Borough of Havering offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 90 routes recorded on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 42 easy, 41 moderate, and 8 difficult options.

Havering's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain, from flat, easy pathways ideal for families in areas like Thames Chase Community Forest and Rainham Marshes, to more varied landscapes including river valleys, historic marshes, and ancient woodlands. Some routes may have unpaved segments, while others are mostly paved, offering a countryside feel within Greater London.

Yes, Havering is well-suited for beginners and families. Areas like the Albyns Farm Lake – Ingrebourne Hill summit loop from Hornchurch offer easy, family-friendly rides. The Thames Chase Community Forest, including Pages Wood, provides 6.5 km of flat, shared-use pathways, perfect for learning cyclists. Many parks also offer gentle routes.

Touring cycling routes in the London Borough of Havering are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists often praise the expansive green spaces, varied landscapes, and the peaceful countryside feel within London.

Absolutely. Routes often pass through significant natural features and landmarks. You can explore the expansive Havering Country Park with its rare Wellingtonia trees, or visit the Ingrebourne Valley Visitor Centre. The Dunnings Lane – Upminster Windmill loop from Emerson Park takes you past the historic Upminster Windmill. Other attractions include Albyns Farm Lake and the ancient woodlands around Upminster and Cranham.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Havering are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the View of the Thames at Purfleet – Ingrebourne Hill summit loop from Elm Park and the Old Church Hill – Orsett Hall loop from Elm Park. The 'South Havering Circular' also explores parts of Thames Chase, Rainham Marshes, and Mardyke Valley.

Yes, several routes provide scenic views of the River Thames. The View of the Thames at Purfleet – Ingrebourne Hill summit loop from Elm Park and the View of the Thames at Purfleet – Ingrebourne Hill summit loop from Harold Wood are excellent choices, winding through historic marshes to the Thames riverside.

Havering's cycling routes are generally accessible via public transport. Many routes start near train stations or bus stops within the borough. For detailed information on public transport options and cycling policies, you can consult the official Havering Council website: havering.gov.uk/travel-1/cycling-walking.

Parking is generally available near many of Havering's parks and trailheads, especially at larger green spaces like Hornchurch Country Park, Havering Country Park, and Bedfords Park. Specific parking information for individual routes can often be found on komoot tour pages or local council websites.

The London Borough of Havering is enjoyable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also popular, though routes can be busier. Even in winter, many paths remain accessible, especially the paved sections, allowing for year-round exploration of the borough's green spaces.

While many routes are easy to moderate, more experienced cyclists can find longer, more challenging options. The The Viper – Blackmore Tea Rooms loop from Emerson Park, for instance, is a moderate route spanning nearly 60 km with significant elevation gain. Combining multiple routes or exploring the less-paved segments of Ingrebourne Hill can also provide a more demanding ride.

Many of Havering's parks and green spaces, including Hornchurch Country Park and Havering Country Park, are dog-friendly, often allowing dogs on leads. While specific cycling routes may vary, shared-use paths are generally suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept under control. Always check local signage for specific restrictions in nature reserves or protected areas.

Havering's routes often pass through or near towns and villages where you can find cafes and pubs. For example, the Tea Hut – Upminster Windmill loop from Romford offers opportunities to stop for refreshments. Exploring routes that go through Upminster, Hornchurch, or Romford will provide more options for food and drink.