London is a city that’s rich in history, from its royal palaces to its industrial revolution and revolutionary past. What better way to explore this fascinating history than by hopping on a bike? Hidden Tracks Cycling offers several incredible rides that take you through the heart of London’s past, combining the joy of cycling with a deeper understanding of the city's historic landmarks. Among these rides are Global London, Trading London, and Rebel London, each offering a unique perspective of London’s diverse and ever-changing story. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just someone who loves cycling, these rides offer something for everyone.
Global London: A celebration of London's diverse culture
London has a proud history of welcoming people from around the world, The Global London bike ride explores the vibrant cultural diversity of the city. Riders will visit key landmarks representing London’s diverse communities, from the iconic London Central Mosque to the rich history of the Irish in Kilburn, and experience a taste of Persian coffee and Lebanese cuisine. The ride celebrates the contributions of various immigrant groups, including Jewish, Hindu, Algerian, and Caribbean communities, offering a unique perspective on London’s cosmopolitan character. It’s a relaxed, story-driven ride with cultural insights and historical landmarks
Trading London: A Look at the City’s Commercial Evolution
For cyclists interested in diving deeper into the story of London’s trade history, taking you along the historical docks, uncovering the hidden corners where commerce once thrived. As you cycle through the streets of London, you’ll explore how the city evolved into today’s global trading center.
You’ll visit locations such as the Royal Docks and Limehouse, once hubs of global trade, and trace the paths that merchants, workers, and ships took during the city’s economic rise. The ride also touches on the architectural legacy left behind by this bustling commerce, with stops at iconic buildings and warehouses that played a pivotal role in the city’s economic development.
This ride complements the When Wren Rode event, which explores the architectural evolution of London. While When Wren Rode focuses on the vision of Sir Christopher Wren, one of the city’s most influential architects, Trading London provides an overview of how trade and industry influenced the city’s landscape. Both rides offer cyclists an opportunity to see how the past has shaped the present, though they do so from different angles.
Rebel London: Pedal Through London’s Revolutionary Past
London has always been a city of change, and with that change has come rebellion. The Rebel London ride is a thrilling journey through the city’s revolutionary past, from the famous to the Gordon Riots, all the way to the more modern protests that have defined London’s identity as a city of resistance.
Cycling through London’s streets, you’ll visit locations that were key to these uprisings and learn about the events that sparked them. This ride provides a fascinating and sometimes gritty look at how ordinary people shaped the city’s political landscape. Just like the Trading London ride, which examines the evolution of the city through commerce, Rebel London shows how the people of London have always fought for change and how those struggles have impacted the city’s development.
Rebel London offers an alternative view of the city, focusing on the struggles of the common people. While the When Wren Ride offers a look at the privileged lives, Rebel London shines a light on the often overlooked stories of rebellion and resistance that have shaped London and the UK’s history.
The Perfect Way to Experience London’s Past, by bike
What makes these rides even more special is the care Hidden Tracks Cycling takes in designing each route. Much like the Palace to Palace and When Wren Rode rides, which are designed to showcase London’s royal and architectural history at a leisurely pace, the Global London, Trading London, and Rebel London rides are crafted to allow cyclists to fully immerse themselves in the city’s past. These rides are accessible to riders of all levels, with plenty of opportunities to stop, rest, and take in the sights and stories.
Each ride is expertly guided, with knowledgeable guides providing fascinating historical context and engaging commentary as you cycle through the city. Whether you're interested in the monarchy, the rise of global trade, or the rebellious spirit of London, there’s a ride that offers a unique perspective on the city’s history.
London’s history is vast and varied, and cycling with Hidden Tracks Cycling is a fantastic way to experience it all. From the royal palaces to the rebellious streets of Rebel London, there’s a ride for every cyclist who wants to explore the city’s past in a way that’s both active and enriching. So, whether you're pedalling through the history of London’s trading routes or riding in the footsteps of Sir Christopher Wren, Hidden Tracks Cycling offers an unforgettable way to discover the stories that have shaped this iconic city.