The perfect weekend cycle using London’s Quietways
Visitors to London are spoiled for choice when figuring out how to get from point A to point B, but there is no better way to see the city than on a bike. Cycling, which is an extremely sustainable way to travel, also offers a unique vantage point of London, one that you wouldn’t otherwise see on the tube or bus. Luckily London comprises a network of Greenways and Cycle Superhighways that allow travellers and locals alive to travel across the city via bike. These can sometimes be busy, especially during commuting hours, and possibly a little intimidating for a beginner or tourist.
In 2015, Quietways were introduced by TFL as an alternative to the busier, higher-traffic cycle routes that already existed. They were, unfortunately, short-lived, and eventually, TFL decided to blend the Superhighways and Quietways into one. However, many Quietways still exist throughout London and are a fantastic way to travel throughout the city. As the name implies, they are a quieter and more approachable way to cycle around town. This is because the routes are created through the backstreets of London, and are therefore less impacted. Quietway 2 (Q2) is a brilliant option for those who desire a charming jaunt through Central and Northeast London, so read on to plan out your adventure on wheels!
As the Quietways were discontinued, it almost feels like a treasured secret and therefore, many Londoners are seemingly unaware of their existence. Thankfully, the signage for the Quietways is still in place and very user-friendly. The Q2 spans 14 km, beginning in Clerkenwell and concluding in Walthamstow, and offers a multitude of delicious eateries, sites and parks to visit along your journey. Pick and choose which section of the Q2 you’d like to visit, or set aside your day to experience this enjoyable route from start to finish:
Clerkenwell: Before hopping on your bike, grab a coffee at the highly-rated EC1 Coffee House and meander in and around the many pretty parks that dot Clerkenwell. Now that you’ve been sufficiently caffeinated, begin your day with a bit of history by heading to the Charles Dickens Museum. It is open from 10 to 5, Wednesday through Sunday and don’t forget to check out the blue plaque that welcomes you into the imaginative and talented writer’s residence.
Islington: Hop on your bike and make your way through the impressive backroads of Angel, which are flanked by pristinely white, terraced homes with vibrantly coloured front doors. If you spot a hidden mews or secret garden, hop off your bike for a bit and explore- this is the joy of cycling! Keeping an eye out for the Q2 markings (painted in white on the road), head towards Islington and find yourself at the Earl of Essex. Grab a snack and head back to the garden, which is encircled by beautiful brick buildings, trees and twinkly lights.
De Beauvoir Town: When you conjure ideas of the quintessential, charming London neighbourhood, you’re probably imagining De Beauvoir Town. De Beauvoir doesn’t have a high street as it is a smaller, community-driven area, but its main road contains a beautifully curated collection of places to eat, drink or stroll, which include a deli, Victorian pub and its quaint rose garden that is surrounded by rows of picture-perfect homes that contain their own beautiful gardens.
London Fields: On your journey to London Fields, be sure to take it slow so you’re able to soak in the neighbourhood’s charm. London Fields and the adjoining Broadway Market are must-see locations in East London. The market itself is only open on Saturdays, but don’t despair if you happen to find yourself in the area mid-week; there are ample places to see and enjoy. From coffee shops to vintage stores to book nooks, you could spend an hour or two browsing, tasting and best of all, people-watching.
Clapton: Time to head further northeast to Clapton! Get yourself back on the Q2 and eventually cross over Lower Clapton Road- you’ll see the Round Chapel on your right, a beautifully preserved building originally opened in 1871 and currently, host to an eclectic array of events such as psychedelic gong baths, vintage markets and gigs. You’ll eventually arrive at the bottom of Chatsworth Road, which is definitely worth checking out. They have a market on Sundays as well as some great eateries and shops to check out too.
Walthamstow: A cycle through Millfields Park and along the canal will bring you to your final destination: Walthamstow Wetlands. Part of the London Wildlife Trust, this 211-hectare site hosts ten reservoirs that draw a variety of species of birds and other wildlife, ideal for the nature enthusiast in you. There are multiple trails to explore, in addition to a cafe to rest after your day of adventuring.
Top Tips:
If you’re looking for some alternative routes around London, TimeOut has some great options!
If you are visiting and don’t have your own bike, try a Santander Cycle or if you’re feeling a little low energy, try Lime’s electric bikes- just download their app to access your ride.
To follow the Q2, there are two ways to stay on route: look for the Q2 painted on the road and look for the purple/blue Quietway (Q2) signs that usually appear when you need to make a turn.
Stay safe by wearing a helmet, being aware of your surroundings and using hand signals to make other cyclists and cars aware of your next move.