London
Ambitious ‘Healthy Streets’ strategy and 350+ km of Cycleways contrast with a fragmented, borough‑by‑borough reality and a persistent bike‑theft deterrent.
Stolen Bikes in London
Bike theft is an ongoing challenge in London — current risk: Very High; 94% unsolved cases (2021). Learn how to protect your ride with our Security Tips and understand coverage options in the Insurance Guide. If your bike was taken, you can report a stolen bike in London to alert the community.
At a glance
Daily riders
27%
Dedicated paths
350+ km Cycleways (2023)
Bike sharing stations
800
Theft risk
Very High; 94% unsolved cases (2021)
Stolen bikes are commonly targeted near transit hubs and popular areas. Use two quality locks and register your frame number.
Quick map
Open London on the map
Why it’s special
Healthy Streets Approach; 80% sustainable trips target by 2041
350+ km branded Cycleways; quality improving but connectivity patchy
Bike theft a major deterrent; secure Cycle Hubs and hangars expanding
2022 Highway Code hierarchy empowers cyclists at junctions
LTNs create calmer local networks (vary by borough)
Data‑driven planning via SCA and Cycling Infrastructure Database
Safety tips
Use two Sold Secure Gold/Diamond locks; frame + at least one wheel
Prefer Cycle Hubs or supervised parking for long stays/overnight
Register your bike on BikeRegister (free) and keep proof of purchase
Use lights at night; ride primary position where appropriate
Avoid quiet, secluded racks; choose busy, well‑lit areas
Ride like a local
Rules that matter
- Ride primary position on quiet roads/junctions; secondary on faster roads
- Two‑abreast is legal; single file when safe to facilitate overtakes
- Cyclists have priority straight ahead; turning traffic should yield
- Obey signals; do not ride on pavements (footways)
- Lights/reflectors required after dark
Typical fines (EUR)
Unwritten etiquette
- Hold a steady line; avoid weaving and sudden stops
- Signal early and make eye contact at junctions/merges
- Be courteous in shared spaces, parks, and along towpaths
Security & parking
Parking like a pro
- Use approved stands; avoid railings and private fences
- Cycle Hubs at major stations offer access‑controlled parking
- Residential bike hangars available via borough schemes
- Dock Santander Cycles correctly; wait for green light
Theft & lock strategy
- Two different lock types; keep locks off the ground
- Secure frame + both wheels to a solid, immovable anchor
- Register on BikeRegister; consider trackers for e‑bikes
- Report theft immediately to police and get a crime reference
Rent a bike
Epic day trips
Lee Valley to Waltham Abbey • ≈20 km
Flat, traffic‑light ride along continuous green corridors from East London.
Thames Path to Windsor (via Feltham start) • ≈17 km+
Gentle westbound ride towards Windsor; combine with Great Park.
Kent/Surrey Hills via Croydon → Westerham • ≈25 km+
Hilly AONB with rewarding views and classic climbs.
What’s next
Cycleway 4 extension (Tower Bridge → Woolwich)
Flagship segregated corridor; multi‑stage delivery to 2027.
Cycleway 9 (West Kensington → Brentford)
Major west‑side route; phased delivery across dense corridors.
Network densification
Closing gaps near Camden, Battersea, Wembley/Willesden to build a connected grid.
Your perfect day
Royal Parks & landmarks (Santander)
Hyde Park → Green Park → St James’s; short hops with abundant docking.
South Bank → Greenwich → Olympic Park (Hybrid)
Thames Path & Cycleway 4 to Greenwich; foot tunnel; canals to Stratford.
Richmond Park circuit (Road)
Laps of the classic 11 km loop among deer; Thames Path west in the afternoon.
Live here or visiting? List your bike to help the community
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Frequently asked questions
How do Santander Cycles charges work?
Day Pass £3 = unlimited 30‑minute pedal‑bike rides in 24 hours (dock before 30 minutes to avoid charges). E‑bike fees via app.
Where should I park overnight?
Prefer Cycle Hubs (stations) or indoor/residential facilities; avoid on‑street racks overnight when possible.
What are typical fines for cyclists?
Examples: red light ~€59 (FPN), pavement ~€59 (FPN), no lights ~€59; more serious offenses (careless/dangerous) go to court.
How do I report a stolen bike?
Report to police online/101 for crime reference; register on BikeRegister; monitor marketplaces; provide serial/frame number.
What is an LTN?
Low‑Traffic Neighbourhood: filters stop through traffic on residential streets, creating calmer routes for walking/cycling.