The best cycling routes around the London Borough Of Croydon

There are over 140 touring cycling routes in the London Borough of Croydon, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. You can find routes ranging from easy urban rides to challenging climbs through varied landscapes.

Croydon's touring cycling routes offer diverse terrain, from gentle gradients on paved surfaces to challenging climbs and descents through woodlands and open heathland. Areas like Addington Hills feature undulating valleys and broadleaved woodland, while routes along the River Wandle provide flatter, more serene paths.

Yes, Croydon offers over 30 easy touring cycling routes. A good option for beginners is the Buckner Road Shortcut – Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Park loop from West Croydon, which is 18.0 miles (28.9 km) and takes you through urban green spaces and parks with minimal elevation gain.

For more experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Croydon has over 50 difficult routes. The Ditchling Beacon – Ditchling Beacon Climb loop from Kenley is a demanding 83.9 miles (135.0 km) trail with significant elevation gain through varied landscapes.

Absolutely. Many routes offer stunning views, particularly from areas like Addington Hills, which provides panoramic vistas of London. You can also find scenic viewpoints along routes that pass through areas like Box Hill, such as the Zig Zag Road, Box Hill – View from Box Hill loop from Reedham.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Croydon are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Outwood Windmill – Jack and Jill Windmills loop from Reedham is a challenging circular route that takes you through scenic countryside.

Croydon's routes often pass through extensive green spaces and nature reserves. You can explore areas like Addington Hills for its woodlands and heathland, or Selsdon Wood Nature Reserve for ancient woodlands. Some routes also lead to or pass by interesting highlights such as Farthing Downs Scenic Road or the View of London from Addington Hill.

Many touring cycling routes in Croydon are well-connected to public transport. The borough has numerous train stations, including East Croydon, West Croydon, and Reedham, which can serve as convenient starting points for various routes. For instance, the Battersea Park Lake – Albert Bridge loop from Thornton Heath starts near Thornton Heath station.

Yes, some routes in and around Croydon offer opportunities for refreshment stops. While not explicitly listed for every route, areas like Merton Abbey Mills along the Wandle Trail (which connects to Croydon) offer cultural hubs with shops and eateries. Additionally, routes passing through towns or villages will often have local cafes or pubs.

The touring cycling routes in the London Borough of Croydon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from quiet woodlands to challenging climbs, and the accessibility of green spaces within an urban environment.

The best time for touring cycling in Croydon is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and the green spaces are in full bloom. This allows for comfortable riding conditions and the best enjoyment of the scenic natural features.

Yes, you can find picturesque paths along waterways in Croydon. The River Wandle, for example, offers routes through areas like Wandle Park, providing tranquil water features and lush greenery. The Wandle Trail is a notable path that follows the river.

Croydon's extensive network of parks and green spaces provides excellent options for family-friendly cycling. Parks like Lloyd Park and South Norwood Country Park offer well-maintained paths and open fields, suitable for easier rides away from heavy traffic. Look for routes designated as 'easy' for the most suitable family options.