Rides

We are run by volunteers who are passionate about cycling in Redbridge. We organise free rides suitable for different abilities (please read the description) from fun family rides to long endurance rides.

Please send us a message if you would like to be more involved in any of the Redbridge Cycling Campaign activities.

We are looking forward to seeing you on one of our rides!

The 2025 season has now ended. Come back here to be the first to see details of our 2026 rides and, you never know, there may even be a special ride or two during the darker months.

5.10.2025 Wanstead Park to the City of London

It has become a tradition for the last ride of the season to be to the City of London. 14 cyclists left Wanstead Park for the Olympic Park, Victoria Park and CS1 to Bunhill, where we stopped for a brief historical talk about the cemetery.

As we entered the City, we heard a talk about London Wall, then, as you can see from the photo, stopped at the Guildhall, where there was a chance to make a quick visit to the gallery. The lunch break was at Postman’s Park, where the weather, which had been dry and windy, turned distinctly chilly.

The postprandial points of interest were Smithfield, St Bartholomew’s church, Charterhouse and Poirot’s house in the TV drama. Then we headed up Tower Hill, across to St Katherine’s and through the docks to the Limehouse Basin so we could head north through Mile End Park, back to Victoria Park and home by our outbound route.

It has been a great season and this is always a lovely ride to end on. We look forward to seeing all our regular riders, and lots of new ones, next season.

27.98.2025 Urban Hill Climb

Nine confident cyclists set off from the Tea Hut for Highgate to watch London Cycling Campaign’s annual hill climb, the only event of its kind in London.

We arrived in good time to see the juniors and seniors, then set off to cycle home after lunch before the main classes, taking a more northerly route through the Olympic Park.

We have been so lucky with the weather this season, which again today was perfect. One ride still to go – what could possibly go wrong now?

21.09.2025 Eastbrookend Country Park

The season is drawing to a close and there have been autumnal days, but we were lucky as a dry, warm, sunny day dawned for our ride to Eastbrookend.

By the time we gathered in Wanstead Park and picked up a joiner in Valentines, there were ten of us, including regulars and cyclists who had not been on our rides before. We soon melded into a friendly and cohesive group, cycling through the junctions of Redbridge without putting the marshals under too much strain. We went through Goodmayes Park, crossed the border into Dagenham and Barking, and arrived at Eastbrookend Country Park for the lunch stop by the café.

We took a more southerly route back, past Dagenham and Redbridge football ground to Parsloes, Mayesbrook and South Parks, to central Ilford, then north, back to Valentines Park and home.

There are two more rides scheduled this season. We really hope to see all today’s riders back, and new joiners, so we can finish the season on a high note. See you soon!

07.09.25 Redbridge Parks Circular Ride

People had returned from holidays. School  was back. Lots of local events were taking place. Everyone was keen to enjoy the last of the summer weather. We knew autumn was around the corner, but no-one wanted to admit it. The Tube was on strike, adding to the congestion. We had organised a complicated ride around the parks of Redbridge, partly on the quiet paths of the Roding Valley Way and parklands, partly through the congested streets of the south of the Borough of Redbridge and central Ilford.

By the time we started from Wanstead Park, picked up joiners from Valentines and more on the Roding Valley Way, seventeen cyclists were on the ride, including families with children, new joiners, regulars and returners. We had a stop at Fairlop Waters, then passed King George’s hospital and Seven Kings Park to Goodmayes Park for a second stop by the Emerald Café. Then came South Park. Finally, we found a way back home through the snarled traffic and street parties.

We were a great group, bonded by the challenge of the ride, the joy of cycling together in lovely conditions, and by making friendships as we went along. I hope we will all be back on a ride again soon.

24.08.25 Wanstead Park To Bruce Castle Museum

So far this summer our rides have enjoyed perfect cycling weather and our ride to two museums was no exception. We first visited the Walthamstow Pumphouse Museum which is run by volunteers. We all found something of interest amongst the fire engines, tube trains and model railways on display. Then cycling through the Lea Valley we arrived at Bruce Castle Park for lunch and then into the museum. There was something of interest for everyone along with a rather splendid art exhibition. On our route home we passed the oldest tree in Haringey and Tottenham’s new stadium – the home of Spurs and the NFL in the UK.

Bruce Castle Museum in Haringey

10.08.25 Goodmayes Park to Wanstead Par

A glorious and unusual ride from Goodmayes Park to Wanstead Park. Wanstead Park is our normal starting place. We never have time to explore the park and learn a little of its history. Most of our riders tend to be local, but on this occasion, we had people from further afield who were keen to learn about the park. Eight riders took part during the delightfully warm day.

We recommend trying out cycling in the heat. Provided you wear light loose-fitting clothing, carry water and cycle gently, there is nothing nicer than having the cooling of the air as you move through it. The uncomfortable warmth only comes when you stop cycling. We always stopped in the shade. It was great to be riding with such interested and sociable people.

27-07-25 Forty Hall.

11 Riders enjoyed a challenging 30-mile ride through Waltham Forest and Enfield to Forty Hall. There were uphill and downhill sections, delightfully peaceful tracks through woodland, along canal and riverbanks and across drained marshes. There were noisy segregated paths alongside busy dual carriageways and some roadwork challenges on the recently created C1 on Hertford Road.

We had a well-earned rest and lunch at Forty Hall before the return ride alongside the Lea Navigation and through the Olympic Park. We appreciated that the ride was completed in the dry, although there was some debate about the temperature. After the heat of the last few weeks, most enjoyed the cooler weather. The group seemed to agree that the Hall, café and gardens were well worth a visit at this time of year.

A tired but satisfied group of friendly riders returned to Wanstead Park and are looking forward to future adventures on the bike.

20.07.25 Barking Park

Our quest to recruit cyclists in the east of the borough continued with a ride from Wanstead Park to Barking Park via Valentine’s with starting points in Goodmayes and South parks.

The weather on this occasion was not helpful. The forecast was ‘changeable’. In the event we rode in the dry. There was a short shower whilst at the café in Barking Park. Six starters and an equal number of marshals arrived at Wanstead Park. No riders started at Valentines or Goodmayes parks. An 18-year-old student was recruited at South Park. She was out on her bike celebrating finishing her A-levels, asked to join us, and thoroughly enjoyed riding with the group.

Our return ride back via South Park was concluded in further fine weather. Apologies, but we failed to take a photograph of the group on this ride! 

15.6.2025 Wanstead Park or Valentines Park to Hyde Park

Today’s riders cycled to the City of London via the Olympic Park, Victoria Park and CS1. Then we headed along CS3 towards the Mall. The area had been throunged the day before for Trooping the Colour. Would there be crowds to contend with today?

By now, the 15 riders had melded into a tight group, sailing through all junctions in one turn of the lights. It became clear that the previous day’s throng had gone, so we had a perfect ride, in warm, dry weather and a gentle breeze, through Hyde Park to the Serpentine Café for the lunch stop.

We headed back along CS3, past the Palace of Westminster and up Tower Hill. Finally, we turned north at the Lea Valley and passed Cody Dock and Three Mills to the Olympic Park and home. A highly enjoyable ride with a great group – we look forward to cycling with you all again soon.

8.6.2025 Wanstead Park to Ray Park

It was great to see families joining our ride along the Roding Valley Way to Ray Park. Twenty-six riders came, including two six-year-olds on their longest ride ever, and a two-year-old in her dad’s baby seat.

After rain the day before, perfect cycling weather prevailed as we stopped for a tea break at the James Leal Café before heading back the same way. Well done to the youngsters who set a personal best. We hope to see you all on another ride soon.

1.6.2025 Wanstead Park to Trinity Buoy Wharf Circular Ride

A great group of 22 cyclists joined our Sunday afternoon ride, which followed a big clockwise circle, starting with the Roding Valley Way. The wind was against us as we cycled along the Royal Docks to Trinity Buoy Wharf for a short break before the return ride, along the Lea, through Cody Dock to the Olympic Park and finally the C16.

It is always great to see new faces and families with children on our rides. The scooter bike rider was back, but on this occasion, a record for our rides was set by a cyclist who completed the ride on a tricycle!

We hope to see you all back on another ride soon. We can’t imagine what type of bike will be next to set a record!

18.05.2025 Wanstead Park to Rainham Marshes

A really lovely group of thirteen cyclists joined our ride to Rainham Marshes RSPB bird watching centre, including many who had not been on our rides before.

Every ride these days seems to set a new record. The unique achievement today was a participant who did the whole ride on a scooter bike!

The route passed through Valentines Park and Eastbrookend to the Rainham Hall National Trust café. We used the Thames Path for the final section to the bird watching centre, came back to Rainham Hall for the lunch stop, and returned to Wanstead Park by a more southerly route through Ilford.

It was great to see so many new participants join the ride and we hope to see you all again soon.

11.05.2025 RIDE REDBRIDGE

The London wide “Festival of Cycling” had its launch event in Redbridge. With the help of a dedicated team of volunteers, riders came together from all corners of the Borough to Fairlop Waters for a grand picnic. The sun shone and the smiling faces said it all: Cycling is a joy. Safe routes around Redbridge are possible. 

As 127 cyclists travelled over 1,250 miles around the Borough, there was no environmental impact and minimal disruption to motor traffic. We were not alone either. We encountered many other cyclists enjoying the glorious weather. 

We hope that this event demonstrated to residents the potential for the future of cycling in Redbridge. We are grateful to the officers and councillors of the Borough for their support. Visit https://redbridgecycling.org to keep up to date with cycling development in Redbridge and of course visit the “Rides” page to learn more about future cycling events. 

27.04.2025 Wanstead Park to Richmond

Eight riders faced the challenge  and excitement of 50 miles across London on Marathon Day. The journey to Hyde Park raised the question, ‘what marathon,’ because we did not see a single runner or supporter. The emergency repairs on the railway crossings near Barnes station led to a last-minute detour. We were not the only confused cyclists in the area, but with advice from a very helpful motorist who was stuck in a traffic jam, we were soon back enroute. The climb through Richmond Park was our next challenge, successfully achieved by all including our young teenage rider.

The riverside at Richmond was extraordinarily busy in the warm sunshine, so not everyone was watching the marathon. On our return, we encountered a flooded roadside alongside the Thames near Putney Bridge (see the photograph of the rowing boat trailer standing in the water). We assume this must have been a seriously high tide.

The return took us through Westminster – just to check there was a marathon going on. All riders who set out completed the 50 miles. Thanks to all in the group – another successful ride day.

06-04-2025 Wanstead Park to Markfield Park

Thirteen riders were expected on the April family ride to Markfield Park – and every one of them did come! We cycled in sunny spring weather, through Leytonstone and Leyton to Jubilee Park, where a fair to celebrate Eid was in full swing. Having negotiated the throng, we crossed to the Tottenham side of the Lea and arrived at Markfield Park via the towpath. After a coffee break at the café by the old pumping house, the chilly wind was against us as we returned along the Lea to the Olympic Park and finally the C16. 

29-03-25 Wanstead Park – Woolwich-Tower Bridge

The sun accompanied us all on a great ride down to Woolwich. TfL managed to challenge us. The Woolwich Ferry was not operating, the DLR was not operating and both lifts at the Woolwich tunnel were out of service. This sturdy bunch of cyclists were not to be defeated and, with the help of an additional strong man, all bikes were safely carried down into the foot tunnel and up the other side. We then enjoyed the southern path past the Thames Barrier, under the cable car and around the O2 dome.

We had a lunch stop in Greenwich and then rode on to cross over Tower Bridge, along the north bank, through Mile End Park, Valentines Park and the Olympic Park. A few minor problems with bikes were dealt with and everyone is now home and relaxing after a 30 mile adventure. I am delighted to report we had riders with heritages from India, Greece, Cyprus, Italy, Germany, Ireland, Wales and England! London is such a delightful mix of people and cultures. Thanks to all those who took part and especially to the marshals.

16-03-2025 Wanstead Park to the Olympic Park

Our first family ride of 2025 left Wanstead Park, bound for the Olympic Park. After the bitter winter, there had been sunny days. But would we be lucky today?

A group of 25 cyclists included regulars back for the new season, families, beginners, and experienced cyclists out to see if they like our format.

A new record was set. The youngest cyclist ever to come on one of our rides, aged 11 weeks, came along in his dad’s trailer.

Our first Olympic venue was the velodrome, where some popped in to see what was happening on the track. Then we rode around the park, had a coffee break by the Orbit Tower, and circled the empty stadium.

By now, hopes of a sunny day had faded. It was cold, so we headed straight back, passed through Draper’s Fields and Leytonstone to Wanstead Park.

It was lovely to see a large and varied group and we hope to see you all again as the 2025 season unfolds.

The cold, harsh winter finally came to an end and our 2025 season started in beautiful spring sunshine. 22 riders left Wanstead Park, bound for Walthamstow, with two stops: Lloyd Park, where there was a chance to pop into the William Morris Gallery, and Walthamstow Wetlands, where some spotted birds while most ate lunch.

We returned by way of the Lea Valley, along a tiny bit of Sustrans’ Dover to Edinburgh cycle route, the Olympic Park and the C16. Let’s hope the season carries on as it started, with great weather, great people and interesting routes!

06-02-2025 Women’s Freedom Ride, After Dark

On a cold Thursday February evening, 5 of us rode together to Hyde Park. We joined well over 100 other riders on the LCC and women’s network campaign ride to improve cycle routes after dark. Whilst there was a festival feel to the ride through West London, the message was a serious one. Many women stop cycling in the winter as they feel unsafe on many TfL routes after dark. Read the LCC report on this issue. You can download the whole report from https://lcc.org.uk/news/womens-freedom-after-dark/

The ride was well led, and marshalled. The motorists, inconvenienced for a few moments, were generally very supportive of the campaign and most were patient! Eleven east London cyclists joined together at Paddington Station for the ride back home.

27-10-2024 City of London

A fantastic turnout of 33 cyclists joined the last ride of our season to the City of London. Lovely autumn sun shone as we set out along the C16, through the Olympic and Victoria Parks and Hackney.

We paused for short talks at points of interest, including the Post Office rail mail depot at Mount Pleasant, Bunyan’s burial-place at Bunhill, the Barbican and the Guildhall, where we went into the gallery to see some of the artworks and Roman remains. The lunch stop was at Postman’s Park. We paused at St Bartholomew’s, where we had the chance to go into the 12th century church, and at Smithfield, where we learned what a foul and putrid place the meat market was until the Victorian era, Charterhouse and the location of Poirot’s art deco apartment in the television dramas. The route back followed the C27 until we re-joined the outward path near Victoria Park.

It has been a great season. Thank you to everyone who joined us and to all those who helped. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year for another great programme of rides.

20-10-2024 Olympic Park

With heavy rain and stormy weather forecast. 4 adventurous riders cycled to the Olympic Park and explored the Velodrome, woodland and waterway areas, the new cultural development of the V&A, University of the Arts, Sadlers Wells and BBC. Then along to the Olympic Pool, Mittel Orbit, London Stadium and finally the Copper Box arena. We had a great opportunity for conversation over lunch at the View Tube café on The Greenway before heading back, assisted by a following wind. It was damp but did not rain. The four of us enjoyed a leisurely, dry and sociable ride.

13-10-2024 Richmond

It was dry and it was cold but 13 of us enjoyed a ride through central London past many iconic sites, including an unexpected Spanish Galleon in St. Katherine’s Dock, to Richmond. All riders chose to return by bike. The day was made all the more enjoyable by the ability of the group to keep together, travel at a reasonable pace, and enjoy each other’s company. The Royal Parks half marathon meant a slight detour so those that were keen to complete the 50 miles, some for the first time, some for the monthly challenge of 100 miles in a month, exceeded their goal as we travelled around 54/55 miles. This was our last long ride before the winter sets in.

28-09-2024 Urban Hill Climb

Swain’s Lane is the steep hill between the two halves of Highgate Cemetery. Each year, our mother organisation, London Cycling Campaign, organise a competition to see who, in various classes, can cycle up it fastest.

Ten cyclists from Redbridge left Wanstead Park on a sunny autumn morning. Two regular ride helpers assumed the role of marshal and we made quick progress through Hackney and Stoke Newington to Highgate. We were there in time to watch the children’s and seniors’ classes which proceed the main event.

After chatting to other cyclists and LCC officers in the park, we made our way back, accompanied by one Redbridge member with energy to spare having successfully competed in the men’s over sixties climb …

22-09-2024 Tour de Waltham Forest

Sunday 22^nd September was the tenth annual “Tour de Waltham Forest”. With three well marked and marshalled routes around Waltham Forest there were distances to suit everyone. Redbridge riders met up early at Wanstead Station. It was pouring with rain, so it was only 5 intrepid marshals that set out to ride across to Waltham Forest Town Hall. The weather soon cleared up and we rode a most enjoyable circuit around the area. During the day hundreds of riders will have participated in what has become a real celebration of cycling and testament to the excellent cycle infrastructure in the southern half of Waltham Forest. A great big thanks to our marshals who will turn out in all weathers.

15-09-2024 Wanstead Festival to Ray Park

With the Wanstead Festival in full swing, eight riders gathered in Wanstead High Street for a family ride along the Roding Valley Way to Ray Park.

This year’s festival was held in warm, dry, summery weather – perfect cycling conditions. We went through residential Wanstead streets, busy with traffic displaced from the High Street, which was closed to cars for the festival.

We paused for a break near the café in Ray Park so the children could make use of the playground and the adults get a cup of tea. Then we made our way back, varying the route slightly in the Woodford section.

Finally, we competed with the frustrated drivers of Wantstead to get back up the hill to the High Street, a round distance of eight miles – quite an achievement for the two little girls who came on the ride!

11-09-2024 Woolwich and Tower Bridge

8 riders left Wanstead Park in sunshine and headed down to the Thames at Woolwich. We enjoyed our free ‘cruise’ across the Thames before following the path along the south bank. We passed the Thames Barrier, the cable car crossing from Silvertown and the Millennium Dome before reaching Greenwich. After passing Greenwich Palace we stopped near the Cutty Sark for a lunch break.

We crossed Tower Bridge, rode up Mile End Park and into Victoria Park where the predicted shower/deluge, challenged us. It did not last long. Whilst three riders left us at Greenwich the rest of us enjoyed the challenge of dealing with hailstones and rain, through the Olympic Park and on to Wanstead Park. A 30-mile round trip with many interesting views along the way.

08-09-2024 The Redbridge Parks Circular Ride

The weather forecast was for heavy rain as eight optimistic riders gathered at Wanstead Park Tea Hut, intent on visiting the parks of Redbridge.

It stayed dry as we peddled along the Roding Valley Way past Claybury Park, which, while having good play and gym facilities, did not delay us long because there is no café. We detected the merest spot of rain as we continued through Fairlop Waters, Seven Kings Park and Goodmayes Park, where we stopped for lunch at the Emerald Café. It remained dry as we returned through central Ilford by way of South Park and Loxford Park.

And at last, two hours after we had made our way safely home, came the most torrential downpour of the year.

01-09-2024 Trinity Buoy Wharf

Sometimes, rides go perfectly.

The expected eighteen riders arrived early at Wanstead Park Tea Hut with well-inflated tyres and cycled in a tight group along the newly mown Roding Valley Way in warm summer sunshine.

We made new friends as we stopped for coffee by the Albert Dock, then continued through Barrier Park to Trinity Buoy Wharf, pausing for brief history talks along the way.

We had plenty of time at the Wharf for lunch, to admire the art works and visit the lighthouse, where the thousand-year singing-bowl concert is still playing. We returned along the Lea Valley, through Cody Dock and Three Mills to the Olympic Park, and finally the C16 towards home.

Next week, we may be back in the world of rain and punctures and will be sustained by the memory of this happy ride and the new friends we made.

25-08-2024 Forty Hall

On a sunny Sunday 15 riders set off to explore our new route to Forty Hall in Enfield. The weather was kind given the heavy and continuous rain of the previous day.

Forty Hall is a Jacobean manor house, built by former Lord Mayor of London, Sir Nicholas Rainton between 1629 and 1632. Set amidst 273 acres we explored a walled garden, ancient trees, wildlife ponds, medieval water gardens and a great café. All riders seemed to think the visit was well worth the effort.

The route may not be the most tranquil we undertake, but most was away from main roads and on designated cycle paths. An unscheduled visit to the Lea Valley campsite demonstrated that the leader was fallible! The group interacted well and were very supportive of the less confident riders. One rider completed the 30 miles and told us it was the longest ride she had ever done. Well done to her and thanks to everyone who came along.

23-08-2024 Rainham Marshes

Our ride to Rainham Marshes was one of the first weekday rides we have tried. Five riders met in Wanstead Park in glorious sunshine and noted a fierce westerly wind. This helpful wind blew us out to Rainham through a variety of parks and nature reserves.

At the RSPB reserve we enjoyed lunch and conversation. The 5 of us shared information about our different heritages – Iranian, Syrian, Barbadian (Bajan), South African and Welsh. It was delightful to share stories, take an interest in the country parks and history of the Thames, and to find that the wind had died down a little as we returned into the wind to Wanstead Park. One rider had come over to join us from Wembley! What a star.

Such a delightful day.  It always helps when the sun shines.

17-08-2024 Hainault Forest Country Park

We often visit Fairlop Waters, but today ventured further, to Hainault Forest.

The problem arises because you have to cycle along part of New North Road and cross the A1112 Romford Road to get from the C16 cycle route and Fairlop Waters to the beautiful, cycle-friendly forest, with its newly refurbished facilities. To avoid the speeding cars, we need about 1km of extra cycle lane!

In a day of firsts, we went on a Saturday and planned a longer than usual lunch stop to give riders a chance to enjoy the forest’s facilities. The Woodland Trust exhibition was closed for want of volunteers, but plenty of people were enjoying the other facilities on a hot summer’s day. We shared the path with Thomas the Tank Engine as fifteen riders returned by the same route to Wanstead.

28-07-2024 Regent’s Park

A large group of 21 riders set off from Wanstead park in lovely summer weather, bound for Regent’s Park by way of the Olympic Park, Victoria Park, Hackney and Islington.

We paused for brief historical talks at places of interest, including the New River and the ground where cricket was first played.

After lunch at the café in the park, we followed a more southerly route back along the C27 through Bloomsbury and Clerkenwell, re-joining our outbound route in Hackney.

7-7-2024 Wanstead Park

In conjunction with the Friends of Wanstead Parklands, The Wanstead Park ride is a chance for families to cycle around the Ornamental Waters, within the bounds of Wanstead Park, with no roads, no motor traffic.

Would anyone turn up on this Sunday afternoon, with heavy rain forecast?

Ten intrepid riders did. As the starting time approached, raindrops started to fall. As the ride got underway, the rain intensified. Bravely, we cycled on, completing a circuit as the paths became muddier and our clothes wetter.

In the circumstances, one circuit was enough. We finished back at the Tea Hut for hot drinks and the ride home. By late afternoon, the sun had come out.

A purpose of the ride was to raise additional funds for Wanstead Park children’s playground. The donations page remains open.

29-6-2024 Rainham Marshes

15 of us set off on a lovely sunny morning and cycled to Rainham Marshes. We had a coffee stop at Eastbrookend Country Park, before riding alongside the Thames to the RSPB reserve for lunch.

Unfortunately, one of our number took a tumble as we arrived at the reserve. His front wheel slipped on gravel at the bottom of a slope. He damaged his elbow. We had terrific help and support from staff at the RSPB Reserve. Our rider is now comfortable at home, re-united with his bike and will, we hope, make a good recovery.

The remainder of the group returned safely and once again concluded a most enjoyable, sociable ride in delightful weather.

16-06-2024 Walthamstow Wetlands

The ride was planned as a family ride with a brief bird watching stop at Walthamstow Wetlands.

A select group of seven left Wanstead Park. The early morning rain cleared as the day turned warm and breezy.

As our route passed two architectural gems of Walthamstow, we paused for brief talks at William Morris’s house and the aptly named Ancient House.

We continued our gentle ride through the parks of Waltham Forest until, at the café by the Wetlands, we paused for lunch. Then came the bird watching.

Having started, we couldn’t stop. We continued counting on the way home along a section of National Cycle Route One (the Dover to Edinburgh), through the Olympic Park and along the C16, where, as a good deed, we mended a puncture, and it wasn’t even for one of our riders!

Finally we arrived back in Aldersbrook. And the final bird count? 17¹.

09-06-2024 Richmond

On Sunday 9^th June, 17 riders assembled in Wanstead Park and headed through the Olympic Park, runners in Victoria Park, the City, and Hyde Park to Richmond.  Everyone made it up the Hill in Richmond Park, some faster than others! We took in the view from the top of Richmond Hill and then descended to the riverside café.

It remained dry but cool throughout the day. Two people chose the railway option to return. The remaining 15 went back into Central London via Westminster and the Tower. At Katherine’s Dock we were delayed as Portsmouth University scientists set off through the lock gate into the Thames on their 2000 mile Rowing Challenge around the UK.

After 50 miles, riders were tired but pleased to have achieved the distance. Most importantly they had enjoyed the day!

26-05-2024 Ride London

The Ride London Freecycle is London’s annual festival of cycling, when thousands of cyclists ride a circuit of iconic central London streets, free of motor traffic for the day. It is not to be confused with the more challenging ride into Essex, which takes place concurrently.

This year, London Cycling Campaign groups from Redbridge and Newham joined forces to lead a giant ride of 110 cyclists to join the Freecycle in central London.

Redbridge riders started at Wanstead Station and Ilford Town Hall, and met others in Aldersbrook to cycle along the C16 and meet the Newham contingent in the Olymic Park.

Most of the rain forecast for the day had passed over by the start of the ride, and there was just a shower as the combined group cycled through Victoria Park to the City of London, where we joined the main Freecycle and spent two hours enjoying the traffic-free streets.

12-05-2024 Family Ride to Fairlop Waters

On a lovely, warm day, fourteen riders set off from Wanstead Park for our May family ride to Fairlop Waters. We headed along the C16 cycle route to Valentine’s Park, where some more cyclists joined us. There were quite a lot of people out enjoying the sunny Sunday weather, and we saw more cyclists around Fairlop Waters than usual. If you enjoy cycling in that area, you are very welcome to join our rides!

The lunch stop at Fairlop Waters was slighty extended because the café was so busy and we had a couple of punctures and mechanical problems to deal with. Then we finished cycling around the lake and made our way back by the C16 route.

It was great to see some new participants and we hope to see you all again on our rides as the season continues.

27-04-2024 Hyde Park

As the early morning rain eased, eighteen determined cyclists gathered in Wanstead Park. Our aim was to cycle to Hyde Park on the Saturday before the London mayoral election to meet cyclists from other boroughs and London Cycling Campaign’s head office. Cycling in London is now a mainstream activity, with the number of cycle trips equivalent to one third of all journeys made by Tube. LCC’s priority for the election is to ensure all mayoral candidates are committed to providing the support for cycling that London needs.

Having dealt with the day’s first two punctures, we headed along the C16 cycle route towards Victoria Park and thence the City of London and Trafalgar Square.

As hundreds of tweed-clad cyclists rode past, marshals repaired another puncture in the Mall.

After all that, we were only slightly late meeting LCC cyclists by the Serpentine Café for the lunch stop.

With split-second timing, just after we left the park, a huge pro-Palestinian march passed down Park Lane behind us. We might have been stuck for hours! We followed a more southerly route back, along CS3, past Parliament to Tower Hill, then St Katherine’s, through the docks, Mile End Park, along the towpath to Victoria and Olympic Parks and along the C16, arriving home just before the rain restarted.

14-04-2024 Fairlop Waters to Valentines, Wanstead and Olympic Parks

The glorious spring weather brought out 30 riders, including several children, for our family ride to the Olympic Park.

We visited the velodrome and were surprised by the absence of cyclists inside, but outside, we saw many cyclists exploring the park. Our own explorations were a little restricted as West Ham FC had a change of date and were playing at home in the London Stadium.

Everyone made it safely back to Wanstead Park with smiles on their faces. Whilst the people of London love cycling – #LondonLovesCycling, Redbridge people especially love cycling.

We had some new riders and look forward to seeing all of you again soon.  Our next Family Ride is to Fairlop Waters on Sunday 5^th May. Details will be posted soon.

30-03-2024 Trinity Buoy Wharf

Thirteen riders left Wanstead Park on Easter Saturday with a pair of secateurs in a pannier.

The weather was warm and sunny as we followed the course of the Roding to the Royal Docks.

Dragon Boat racers were training on the Albert Dock, but we had only a brief minute to watch as we crossed the Connaught Bridge to Barrier Park, passed the Mayor of London’s new headquarters on the Victoria Dock, and cycled on until at last we arrived at Trinity Buoy Wharf for lunch at the café.

Then we had time to explore the wharf, admire the art works, listen to the tide bell, which sounded even though the tide was very low, and visit the lighthouse where Michael Faraday did experiments and the Longplayer musical composition now plays, still in the early days of its thousand year cycle.

The return ride followed the Lea, through Cody Dock, past artworks on the way to Three Mills, thence through the Olympic Park to the C16 and home.

It was a leisurely ride with a great group of cyclists. And, with the aid of those secateurs, we left the cycle paths along the Roding clear enough of overhanging vegetation for cyclists to pass in safety.

16-03-2024 Eastbrookend Country Park

16 Redbridge riders cycled in the sunshine to Eastbrookend Country Park to meet up with cyclists from Havering and from Barking and Dagenham. Lunch in the sunshine was enjoyed by all. It was good to make contact with other East London boroughs, engaged in similar campaigning to us. We all want better provision for cyclists and more coherent signed routes from which we would all benefit. Once there are properly signed, safe, routes everyone benefits. Many more people want to cycle and are nervous to do so with the current level of provision.

03-03-2024 Women’s Freedom Ride

Eighteen cyclists set off from Wanstead Park on Redbridge Cycling Campaign’s ride to join the 2024 Women’s Freedom Ride in central London.

After a cold start, spring-like sunshine glimmered as we rode through Victoria Park and joined a thousand cyclists in Lincoln’s Inn Fields, all there to protest against dangerous cycling conditions, especially for women in London, and demand action from London Mayor Sadiq Khan.

We met members of other LCC borough groups before setting out on a circuit of iconic central London Streets, and finally followed the C27 back to the Olympic Park and home.

A great start to the season, we look forward to seeing all participants on lots more rides as the 2024 season unfolds.

09-12-2023 Walthamstow Wetlands

People sometimes suggest a winter ride, but would they turn up when faced with the reality of getting the bike out on a cold, rainy morning? The answer is, six did, and were really pleased to have made the effort. The weather improved and we had a really great ride with a lovely group of cyclists. The heavy rain had already eased by the time we gathered in Wanstead Park, to make our way through Walthamstow to the Wetlands, where our ride leader’s other passion came to the fore as we enjoyed a brief bird spotting session. After lunch in the café, we returned via the Olymic Park and C16. A lovely addition to the season and we were so glad to have made that early effort,

28.10.2023 Redbridge Parks

Our 2023 season came to a climax with a ride around seven parks in the London Borough of Redbridge, with short talks along the way on their history and geography.

Fifteen riders gathered in Wanstead Park, in sight of the newly arrived English longhorn cows, and set off along the Roding Valley Way for Claybury Park, where we met two more cyclists from Valentine’s Park and learned about the psychiatric institution that once stood there.

The third park was Fairlop, where we had a break by the Waters and a talk about the watercourses in the area.

Then we visited Seven Kings Park en route to Goodmayes Park, where we took the main lunch stop outside the café. Then came South Park followed by a ride through Ilford to Valentine’s Park.

The forecast rain held off until after we were safely back at Wanstead Park, glad to have finished the season with a lovely group of cyclists on a rather complex ride, and looking forward to a break before embarking on a whole new programme of rides. See you in 2024!

22.10.2023 The Olympic Park

In the respite between storms Babet and Ciaran, ten intrepid cyclists gathered in Wanstead Park for Redbridge Cycling Campaign’s last family ride of 2023. Our outward route took us to the Olympic velodrome, where novice track riders were being briefed for a taster session, then onward to the heart of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, where we took the break in front of the stadium by the fountains.

Our anti-clockwise ride headed back along the C16 cycle path through Leyton and Forest Gate. Finally, we were back in Aldersbrook, grateful that the family ride season had ended in lovely autumn weather in the company of such a delightful group of riders. We look forward to seeing everyone in 2024 for a new programme of variations on the proven family-ride theme.

8.10.2023 Rainham Marshes

13 riders took part in a ride from Wanstead Park to the RSPB reserve at Rainham. It was a gloriously sunny day and for some riders, discovering Eastbrookend Country Park and the Beam Valley Nature reserve cast East London in a new light. The route alongside the Thames, past the concrete lighters – remnants of the second world war led to the café at the RSPB reserve. Lunch on the balcony in the glorious sunshine and using the display binoculars to look over the RSPB reserve, made for a relaxing break before heading back. We passed through Mayesbrook Park and South Park on the return.

This 35 mile ride was probably the best weather ride we have had this year so far. Two more to go see details above.

1.10.2023 Hyde Park

Ten cyclists, including four marshals, left Wanstead Park on a fine Sunday morning bound for Hyde Park by way of the C16, Olympic Park, Victoria Park, City of London and Cycle Superhighway 3.

It was a great ride despite adversity caused by road closures in or near tunnels. Firstly, a section of CS3 is closed in the City, where it goes through the Upper Thames Street tunnel. There was a good diversion through the traffic tunnel and they have to do maintenance, we accept that. Queen Street was closed for roadworks. We found a way around that and stopped for lunch near the Serpentine Café, little suspecting the closures were going to get worse.

After the break, we headed back along CS3, past the Palace of Westminster and Tower of London, to St Katherine’s Dock.

The bridge where boats enter the dock was up! Luckily, an eagle-eyed rider noticed it was about to be lowered so we waited a few minutes. But that’s not all. The Thames Path in Wapping is still closed near the Thames Tideway Tunnel works, forcing us onto the Ratcliff Highway. This is not a temporary closure – the landlord is endeavouring to make this a permanent closure to cyclists from the Thames Path.

Then, part of the towpath along the Lea Navigation is closed, forcing us to carry our bikes up steps to find a detour. The Canals and Rivers Authority may have a pressing need to do maintenance, but if would be good if they signposted it earlier, so people could make a diversion that doesn’t involve steps.

We then had the smug feeling of cycling past huge amounts of snarled-up traffic. We assume the Limehouse or Rotherhithe Tunnel was closed.

We arrived back at Wanstead Park, feeling it was a good ride, and extremely grateful to the ride leader for expertly finding ways around all the closures.

17.09.2023 Wanstead Festival to Wanstead Park

The Wanstead Festival got off to a good start, with dry weather early in the day. Two family groups joined our taster ride from Wanstead High Street to Wanstead Park and back. Four marshals were on hand to show how we keep everyone safe and to give a flavour of what our longer rides are like.

The deteriorated weather later in the day may have put people off and, in the event, the morning ride was the only one we led, giving an opportinity to explore the festival in the afternoon.

We hope to see riders back for one of our regular programme of rides one day soon.

10.9.2023 Waltham Abbey Olympic Canoe Centre

Seven star riders, including three marshals, left Wanstead Park determined to make it to the Lea Valley White Water Centre on one of the hottest days of this summer’s late heatwave. The first leg went through Leytonstone and Walthamstow Marshes to Markfield Park. Some of our family rides finish here, but today there was no time to visit the Victorian double-expansion beam engine, we had much further to go, along towpaths, following part of national cycle route 1, until at last our end was in sight: the canoeing centre near Waltham Abbey built for the 2012 Olympic white water rafting.

After the lunch stop, we watched elite white water canoers training for an event the following weekend, then headed back along towpaths to the Olympic Park. The temperature soared to 31°C and a few splodges of rain fell as route C16 took us home to Wanstead Park.

26.08.2023 Trinity Buoy Wharf

Our return was via Lea Valley and the Olympic Park.

20.08.2023 Family Ride to Markfield Park

Fifteen cyclists, including five marshals, set off from Wanstead Park in warm, dry conditions for our August family ride to Markfield Park on the Lea in Tottenham. The route there took us along residential streets in Leytonstone and the greener terrain of Walthamstow Marshes. After the tea break by the café next to the Victorian pumping station, we returned along the Lea, through the  Olympic Park and Leyton

30.07.2023 Regent’s Park

Our new route to Regent’s Park followed a thin figure-of-eight. We peddled the familiar C16 to the Olympic Park, then in Islington, North Londoner Alan gave talks as we passed Tony Blair’s infamous house, the ground where cricket was played before Lord’s and the New River, among other historical titbits. Our 14 cyclists traversed Regent’s Park from north to south, stopping for lunch at a handy bandstand, and the wind blew us back by a more southerly, central, route along the C27, past the Post Office Tower, rejoining the outward route through Victoria and Olympic parks. To complete the eight, we cycled the final section through Leytonstone to Bushwood as the rain, which had obligingly held off until the end, started to pour.

16.07.2023 Victoria Park Family Ride

In a magnificent turnout, 28 riders including seven fantastic marshals set off from Wanstead Park for Victoria Park along the C16 and through the Olympic Park. The forecast rain held off, the temperature was perfect for cycling and the wind blew from behind on the way back. After the tea break, the official route entered Draper’s Fields and went over the humps.

Everyone having successfully completed that challenge, we continued the ride home with suitable musical accompaniment.

A great afternoon’s cycling – we can’t wait to do it all again!

02.07.2023 Woolwich, Greenwich and Tower Bridge

Twelve intrepid riders set off towards the Royal Docks intending to cross the Thames at North Woolwich. We knew the Woolwich Ferry wasn’t running on Sunday, and the lifts in the Woolwich foot tunnel were out of action, but we had a contingency plan – to take our bikes across on the DLR. Having made it to Woolwich, we cycled the path south of the river, admiring the art works around the periphery of the

Greenwich Peninsula, and arrived at Greenwich for a lunch stop by the Cutty Sark.

Continuing on the Thames Path south of the river, we arrived at Tower Bridge to discover it was raised. After a few minutes’ delay, the bridge back down, everyone made it safely to St Katherine’s, and from there through the docks to Leamouth, along the Lea through Cody Dock to Three Mills, through the Olympic Park and finally back to Wanstead Park. It was a great day’s cycling with a really good group and the challenge of crossing the river both ways made it an adventure. We’re already looking forward to the next one.

1. Coot, Moorhen, Common Tern, Black headed Gull, Lesser Balck backed Gull, Swan, Cormorant, Grey heron, Magpie, Wood pigeon, Feral Pigeon, Jackdaw, Canada Goose, Greylag Goose, Great Crested Grebe, Tufted Duck and Starling. ↩︎