Cycling in Southwark
Find out about less busy cycling routes in Southwark, family-friendly routes, cycling groups, guided rides and free online cycling skills training.
We'd love to see everyone in the borough leave their cars at home and start cycling and walking more. We've been busy creating a network of handy cycle routes along Southwark’s less-busy streets.
Quietway routes
Together with TfL, we've been adding Quietways routes to our map. These are part of a London-wide programme of clearly marked cycle routes, away from heavy traffic, and help cyclists find their way along roads they may never have cycled on before.
Southwark Spine route
Our Southwark Spine cycle route will compliment the Quietways. The routes will offer a direct, safe, attractive, comfortable and easy cycle route for all ages and abilities, traveling from the north to the south of Southwark.
Cycle guides
With TfL’s local cycling guides, you can discover family-friendly routes through parks, waterways and forests. Visit TfL's website for cycle routes in Southwark.
Rotherhithe trail
You can enjoy a two mile (with an alternative 1.5 mile extension) signed walking and cycle trail through historic Rotherhithe. The trail takes in the sights of Canada Water, Albion Channel, Surrey Water, Staves Hill, Russian Dock Woodland, Greenland Dock and Surrey Quays shopping centre. Most of the route is traffic free, and there are plenty of cafés to stop in at along the way or enjoy your own picnic. You can download the Rotherhithe bike trail map (PDF, 1.4mb).
Breeze rides
Led by women for women, Breeze bike rides are local, friendly and very social. The rides are short and traffic free and are ideal for those new to cycling or wanting to improve their skills. To find out more, visit the Go Sky Ride website and click on find a ride. You can also contact Laura Spooner on 020 7525 7304.
Social cycling groups
If you'd like to set up your own cycling group, buddy up with like-minded cyclists or find cycling activities in your area, join British Cycling's Social Cycling Groups, which is the social network for cyclists. For more information, visit the Go Sky Ride website.
Sky Ride local rides
These free, fun guided bike rides around the borough are perfect for all ages and abilities and take place fortnightly between June and October. For more information, visit the Go Sky Ride website.
Free online cycle skills course
Whether you're new to cycling or just want to brush up on your skills, TfL’s free online cycle skills course provides easy to follow tips and advice to get you going. There are four short modules to try.
You'll learn:
- tips to get you and your cycle prepared for the road
- how to start cycling on the road safely and responsibly
- tips to brush up on your cycling skills
- how to cycle in a group with children
Register for TfL's free Cycle Skills course
Page last updated: 14 September 2022
