Capital Ring Cycling Route: Yes There Is One

You know about this green belt around London, and you want to cycle it? Welcome to the Capital Ring cycling route, the unsung hero of circular rides that gives you woods, waterways, and wide-open spaces, all without ever truly leaving the city. Sure, it was designed for walkers, but cyclists? We’ve found a way in.

In this post, we’ll break down what makes the Capital Ring so special, how (and where) you can ride it, and why it might be the perfect Sunday mission. Let’s get rolling.

What Is the Capital Ring Cycling Route?

The Capital Ring cycling route is roughly an 81-mile (about 130 km) loop around London, originally created for walkers in mind. It connects green parks, canal paths, woods, and hidden corners of the city in one big scenic necklace. While it wasn’t purpose-built for cycling, much of it is rideable – with a few tweaks and gentle detours.

Can You Actually Cycle the Capital Ring?

Short answer: Yes – with a bit of creativity. The official route was made for walkers, which means you’ll encounter a few stairs, tight footbridges, and the occasional muddy footpath. But cyclists have mapped out slightly alternative versions using adjacent roads, towpaths, and cycle lanes.

Many sections are blissfully quiet, rideable and safe – especially with a gravel, hybrid, or mountain bike. Just keep a GPX file handy (the Capital Ring signage is… optimistic) and be prepared to dismount occasionally if the way narrows.

How Long Is the Capital Ring Cycling Route and How Long Does It Take?

The walking route is 78 miles (125 km). The cycling route (thanks to a few detours) is around 81 miles (130 km). Depending on your fitness level, it can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours to cycle the full loop. It’s doable in a day for ambitious riders, or you can split it into two or three segments for a more leisurely ride.

Add a few hours if you’re the type to stop for coffee, cake, photos, or deer-spotting in Richmond Park. (Highly recommended.) You won’t believe the beautiful corners of London you’ll pass.

Route Overview: A Loop Through London’s Greenest Bits

Here’s a short breakdown of the route, going clockwise from Woolwich:

South East: Woolwich to Crystal Palace

• Start with riverside views and old industrial charm.
• Enjoy Shooters Hill (yes, it’s a climb) and Oxleas Wood.

South West: Crystal Palace to Richmond

• Meander through Dulwich Wood, Wimbledon Common, and follow the Wandle Trail.
• Hilly but rewarding.
• Deer to spot in Richmond Park if you’re lucky.

West & North West: Richmond to Greenford

• Thames towpaths, and quieter roads through Brentford and Perivale.

North: Greenford to Highgate

• Ride canal-side along the Grand Union.
• Pass through Harrow-on-the-Hill and glimpse some of London’s highest points.

East: Highgate to Woolwich

• Cruise through Finsbury Park, admire Ally Pally, and follow the Greenway Walk.
• The Greenway section, especially on an early Sunday morning, is an underrated gem – absolutely empty, peaceful, and perfect for cruising.

Best Parts of the Capital Ring Cycling Route

Some parts of the Capital Ring bike route are simply more cycle-friendly than others. If you want to explore just bits here and there, these stretches are particularly rideable:

• Richmond to Wimbledon: Smooth paths, parkland, and cafes galore.
• The Greenway (East London): Like having your own private bike lane through the city.
• Grand Union Canal: Flat, tranquil, and good for clocking easy miles.
• Woolwich to Crystal Palace: A solid workout with big green payoffs.

Exploring these highlights gives you a great mix of terrain – without committing to the whole 81 miles (unless you’re that kind of hero).

Tips for Cycling the Capital Ring Like a Pro

Cycling the Capital Ring like a pro isn’t about speed. It’s about being smart, prepared, and rolling with London’s unpredictability.

1. Start by getting familiar with the route. The Capital Ring isn’t a dedicated cycle path; it’s a blend of quiet roads, parks, canal towpaths, and the occasional dodgy staircase. Signs can be tricky to spot, especially if you’re on the bike. Navigation apps are your best friend. They’ll remove much of the navigational frustration.
   Check out the route on Komoot.
2. Tyre choice matters. A hybrid or gravel bike handles the mix of tarmac, gravel, and muddy woodland far better than skinny road tyres.
3. Don’t rush it. This isn’t the Tour de France. It’s a rolling tour of London’s green belt. Expect dogs, strollers, and gates that demand a dismount. Ride with patience and soak in the scenery.
4. Fuel properly. Grab snacks along the way, and treat yourself to a flat white at the TEAMMC Cycles café in Whitechapel (yes, shameless plug – but also highly recommended).
5. Finally, stay flexible. Closures happen, detours pop up. Laugh it off, reroute, and keep pedalling. That’s how the pros do it – minus the Lycra tantrums.

What Kind of Bike Is Best for the Capital Ring?

If you’re wondering whether your bike can handle the loop, here’s the lowdown:

Gravel bikes are your best friend for the Capital Ring cycling route. They are designed for mixed terrain and fast on tarmac but confident on trails.

Hybrids and mountain bikes also work great, especially if comfort and control are your priorities.

Road bikes can manage large parts, but you’ll feel every bump, gate, and patch of gravel. Bring your strongest tyres – and patience.

Capital Ring in a Day: Go Big or Go… Slowly

Doing the whole Capital Ring cycle route in a day is possible with an early start, good fitness, and a solid plan. Keep stops efficient and your navigation sharp. Alternatively, turn it into a weekend adventure with overnight breaks in leafy boroughs.

Don’t forget your lights. London’s sunsets can sneak up on you.

Getting Ready

The Capital Ring cycling route is one of London’s best-kept two-wheeled secrets. You’ll get forest trails, historic landmarks, deer sightings, canal serenity, and a surprisingly countryside feel, all while technically staying in the city.

Before you set off, make sure your bike is in good shape. TEAMMC Cycles can help you with that. We offer full servicing, repairs, and part upgrades to get you road- (and gravel-) ready. And if you need a coffee before or after your ride, our Moroccan-inspired café serves up coffee classics, chai, and Karak coffee to keep the legs spinning. We’d love it if you came around to say hi.

Here’s to new loops, smooth rides, and just enough uphill to feel smug about.

🚴‍♂️ Happy Cycling! 🚴‍♀️