The Best West London and Surrey Cycling Routes

Looking forward to some sunny, summer miles? We’ve put together a mixture of some of our favourite routes in and around Surrey and West London. We think there’s something for everyone, from beginners to those looking to challenge themselves and explore a little further…

1. Tamsin Trail (Richmond Park)

Distance: 11km

Elevation: 111.8m

http://www.richmondparklondon.co.uk/cycling/mountainbiking/

The Tamsin Trail is a traffic-free, shared walking and cycling path around the perimeter of Richmond Park. Suitable for gravel/ adventure bikes and mountain bikes, the path is mostly shingle and gravel but can be challenging in places! The route is signposted from all of the park entrances, and while there are a couple of hills to contend with, if you ride anti-clockwise you’ll enjoy more descending than climbing. There are also plenty of places to stop for refreshments, admire the views over London and spot local wildlife including deer and parakeets.

2. Kingston upon Thames to Putney (via Richmond Park)

Distance: 23.9km

Elevation: 150m

Fancy a leisurely coffee spin? Look no further. Heading straight out of Kingston and into Richmond Park, you’ll enjoy the traffic-free shortcut, passing in front of the Royal Ballet School (make sure you also look left as the view from here is beautiful!) before dropping down to the river and following National Cycle Route 4 into Putney for refreshments. Once done, you’ll head back into Richmond Park and back to Kingston Gate via the well-earned Broomfield descent.

Click to see the route.

3. Kingston Upon Thames to Windsor Castle (Thames Path)

Distance: 39.3km

Elevation: 190m

This route follows part of National Cycling Route 4, taking a scenic mixture of towpaths, cycle paths and minor roads as you follow the Thames from Kingston bridge. You’ll need to join the river path from the Teddington side of the bridge (you should be able to see the White Hart hotel). From there, you’ll enjoy a quiet ride along the river towards Hampton Court and beyond to Sunbury, Walton on Thames, Weybridge, Chertsey and Staines. After Staines, you’ll leave the river and climb towards Windsor Great Park before finishing in front of Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world.

Click to see the route.

4. Esher to Staple Lane Loop

Distance: 40.3km

Elevation: 350m

This route is one of our favourites. After heading down Portsmouth Road to Cobham, you’ll quickly find yourself in quiet, rolling country lanes as you ride through Hatchford, Ockham and East Clandon. Crossing the A3, you’ll soon see the Staple Lane climb weaving up through the fields ahead of you. Don’t panic! While it looks steep, it’s a relatively short effort and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views as far as Woking and London on a clear day. Continue a little further, and you’ll also find a pop-up cafe in the car park at the top should you need to top up on snacks. Otherwise, turn left at the junction and begin the well-earned descent of Coombe Lane and Green Dene, before heading home via West Horsley.

Click to see the route.

5. Esher to Box Hill Loop

Distance: 44.4km

Elevation: 450m

A classic Surrey loop, taking in the iconic Box Hill climb. Starting in Esher, you’ll follow the Portsmouth Road into Cobham and into the Surrey countryside. From here, you’ll begin the steady ascent from Cobham to Effingham and on to Great Bookham, where you’ll encounter your first proper test of the day, Chapel Lane/ Bagden Hill. This should warm your legs up nicely! Once you descend into Westhumble, if you need refreshments the bike shop in the old train station is often open for coffee, soft drinks, and homemade flapjacks. After a quick refuel, it’ll be time to head towards the main event, as once you’ve crossed the Mickleham Bypass the Box Hill climb starts. Don’t forget to enjoy the view from the top! 

After you’ve caught your breath, it’s time to head back via the rolling roads of Leatherhead and Oxshott.

Click to see the route.

Enjoy the ride! 🚲