London Ride Guide
London riding escapes the traffic via the Royal Parks and the lanes of Surrey and Hertfordshire. Mild, damp weather means a long season — the main variables are rain showers and the wind off the North Sea.
Climatology
Cool and damp year-round (38–73°F) with frequent grey, showery days and rare extremes. Summers are mild, winters seldom freeze hard, and rain can come in any season — so good kit matters more than the calendar.
Season by season
Spring
Mar–MayLengthening days and drier spells. Pack a packable rain shell every time.
Summer
Jun–AugThe best window — mild, long evenings. The odd heatwave pushes the 80s.
Autumn
Sep–NovCool, atmospheric, and wet. Lights and mudguards go back on by October.
Winter
Dec–FebGrey and damp but rarely icy. Layer for 40°F drizzle and ride through it.
Signature rides
Surrey Hills & Box Hill
45 miThe classic escape south — quiet lanes and the famous Box Hill zig-zag climb.
Richmond Park Loop
7 miTraffic-calmed deer park laps on the city's edge. The everyday training circuit.
Regent's Park Outer Circle
3 miSmooth central-London loop for early-morning laps before the gates get busy.
Frequently asked
Is London a good place to cycle?
London riding escapes the traffic via the Royal Parks and the lanes of Surrey and Hertfordshire. Mild, damp weather means a long season — the main variables are rain showers and the wind off the North Sea.
What is the weather like for cycling in London?
Cool and damp year-round (38–73°F) with frequent grey, showery days and rare extremes. Summers are mild, winters seldom freeze hard, and rain can come in any season — so good kit matters more than the calendar.
What are the best bike rides in London?
Standout routes include Surrey Hills & Box Hill (45 mi), Richmond Park Loop (7 mi), Regent's Park Outer Circle (3 mi).
Nearby guides
From the blog
What the 0–10 Ride Score means, which weather factors drive it, and how to use it to pick the best day and time to ride.
A temperature-by-temperature guide to dressing for cold-weather cycling — from cool 60°F mornings down to freezing rides.
Wind is the most underrated factor in cycling. Here's how to read it and plan routes so the hardest effort comes first.
Want today's Ride Score and what to wear in London?