Rebel London
Any bike | 27km/16 miles | 120m/420ft
Date: Wednesday 28th May
See London in a whole new light on this fascinating historical bike ride, uncovering the city's rebellious past!
Led by cycling guide Charlie and brought to life by Official London Guide Sean, this tour takes you through the streets of London, revealing the hidden stories behind its most defiant figures and events.
From Roman times to the present day, you'll hear about legendary rebels—some heroes to many—including Boudicca, William Wallace, the Fenians, Gandhi, and of course, Guy Fawkes. Discover where rebels were executed, how governments sought to suppress uprisings, the truth behind Sylvia Pankhurst’s trial, secret IRA meetings, and even whether Shakespeare himself was a rebel!
We’ll start at the NLA London Centre, where we’ll explore their city models to get our bearings before setting off. Midway, we’ll stop for lunch at the Nag’s Head in Knightsbridge, before meandering back to NLA to recap our journey.
This is a gentle-paced ride—the focus is on the incredible history and stories that have shaped London. You’ll never see the city the same way again!
Join us for an unforgettable ride through London’s rebellious past!
Highlights:
1. Boudicca’s Uprising & the Burning of Roman London – Visit the sites linked to Boudicca’s fierce rebellion against the Romans and hear how she nearly wiped London off the map!
2. The Execution of William Wallace – Stand near the spot where the real-life "Braveheart" met his gruesome fate, executed for defying the English crown.
3. Guy Fawkes & the Gunpowder Plot – Uncover the secrets behind the failed attempt to blow up Parliament and see where this explosive conspiracy unfolded.
4. Suffragette Rebellion & Sylvia Pankhurst’s Trial – Discover how the fight for women’s rights led to protests, arrests, and dramatic courtroom battles.
5. Secret IRA Meetings & Hidden Rebel Hideouts – Learn about the covert locations where revolutionaries plotted, from the Fenians to modern-day activists.
Each stop reveals a gripping tale of defiance, struggle, and resistance, bringing London’s rebellious past to life!
Ride details
- Date: Wednesday 28th May
- Start and Finish: NLA London Centre - 3 Aldermanbury, City of London, EC2V 7HH
- Start time: 09:00 Finish closes 17:00 (ish)
- Distance: 16 miles.
- Climb: 420 m
- Cycle Paths and quiet roads.
- Max Group size - 10 riders
Route Map
What is included in the price?
- GPX route maps.
- Qualified London Guide
- Ride lead by a British Cycling Accredited Ride Leader
Is this ride for me?
Expect a gentle ride ridden at an easy pace.
With few or no hills on well-maintained gravel paths, bike lanes and shared-use paths. these rides are suitable for riders who can pedal for about an hour without stopping.
Suitable for all bikes, including hybrids, folding bikes, MTB, gravel, road bikes, Boris Bikes and e-bikes.
Is my bike OK for this ride?
Suitable for all bikes in working condition!