What is RideLondon 2024?
RideLondon 2024 is a cycling festival that will take place in the capital on the 26th of May. It is one of the biggest events of its kind in the world, attracting tens of thousands of riders from across the country. The festival has a range of events that cater to all levels of cyclists, from beginners to professionals.
A Quick History of RideLondon
The Mayor of London established RideLondon in 2013 to create a legacy from the London 2012 Olympics, where Team GB achieved great success in cycling. Since then, the event has expanded to include a variety of mass participation challenges that cater to riders of all ages and skill levels, as well as road races that attract top professional cyclists and are broadcast live on the BBC.
Unfortunately, the event was put on hold in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic. However, in 2022, RideLondon made a much-anticipated comeback with revamped routes that extended through parts of Essex, breathing new life into the event.
Ford RideLondon-Essex 100
One of the main events is the Ford RideLondon-Essex 100. This will take riders on a 100-mile journey along traffic-free roads through London and the neighbouring county of Essex.
Starting from Victoria Embankment in central London, the RideLondon-Essex 100 route will take cyclists past the Olympic Park and through various London boroughs, including Westminster, City of London, Tower Hamlets, Newham, Hackney, and more. From there, the route will continue into Essex via the stunning Epping Forest.
As riders journey through the towns, villages, and countryside of Essex, they will experience a section of the route that was part of the 2014 Tour de France stage that finished in London.
The event will come to an exhilarating close as riders return to the capital, completing their journey at the Finish Line at Tower Bridge, where they will be met with enthusiastic applause and a sense of accomplishment after completing the 100-mile challenge.
RideLondon-Essex 60
Similar to the 100-mile ride, the 2024 Ford RideLondon-Essex 60 will begin at Victoria Embankment before taking riders through the stunning and historic Epping Forest and into Essex.
Once in Essex, cyclists will ascend to Ongar before turning around and retracing their path back to Southwark in central London. The ride will culminate in an impressive finale at Tower Bridge.
RideLondon-Essex 30
Finally, the smallest version of this event is the Ford RideLondon-Essex 30. Participants must be 16 years or older, and like the other versions, it sets off from Victoria.
The cycle ride passes through central London and up to South Woodford, which is situated near the Essex border. At this point, riders will turn around and head back to central London
The RideLondon Free Ride
A more casual event, the Ford RideLondon FreeCycle is an exciting ride that caters to riders of all ages and abilities. Taking place on a traffic-free route, this event offers a unique opportunity to explore central London on a bike, and the best part is that it's completely free to participate! You can register your place now to secure your spot in this unforgettable event.
For the first 4,000 registrants, a complimentary Ford RideLondon FreeCycle tabard will be given to make you feel safe and visible while cycling on the Event Day and beyond.
The 2024 Ford RideLondon FreeCycle route will take you through some of London's most iconic landmarks, including St Paul's Cathedral, Somerset House, Buckingham Palace, and The Mall. This landmark-laden loop will showcase the city's history and culture, all in one ride.
This year's event will feature two Festival Zones at Bank and St Paul's, where riders can stop for mechanical assistance, refreshments, and enjoy various activities like music, games, and face painting! Join the fun on Sunday 26 May 2024 for a day of cycling and celebration in the heart of London. And the best part, it won't cost you a penny!
Sustainability and Cycling
One of the key aims of RideLondon 2024 is to promote cycling as a sustainable and healthy mode of transport. The festival aims to encourage people to take up cycling and to promote the benefits of cycling for individuals and the community.
RideLondon 2024 is an exciting and vibrant cycling festival that offers something for everyone. This is a unique chance to experience the city in a new way with closed roads and a stunning route through the heart of London.
At Bike Club we are also passionate about sustainability and the circular economy. With our bike subscription model you can help reduce waste. When your child outgrows their current bike, they can exchange it for the next size up.
The old bike will be serviced by our expert mechanics and available for another child to use as a reBike. We want to get more children cycling and help the planet at the same time. You can view our great range of kids bikes today and find the best fit for your little one.