Leave the hustle and bustle of the City behind and try out this cycle route through beautiful Dulwich Park. 🚲🌳
There’s lots to see as you loop the park or explore nearby, so stop off along the way and enjoy one of south London’s loveliest parks at your own pace.
About Dulwich Park
Created in 1890 from farmland and meadows, Dulwich Park is a Grade II listed green oasis. See if you can spot the original boundary oaks that divided the land – several still exist today! 👀
Dulwich Park is car-free and with lots of cycle parking available, it’s perfect if you don’t normally ride and want to give cycling a go.
The park covers 72 acres so there’s plenty to see and keep you busy. There’s a large children’s playground, a pretty boating lake, tennis courts and sport pitches, a bowling green, outdoor table tennis and a number of gorgeous gardens – plus a vegetable garden. Fun fact: Dulwich Park was used as allotments during World War Two to help with food shortages!
After exploring, stop off for a well-deserved treat at the Pavilion Café in the middle of the park.
How to get to Dulwich Park
Use Journey Planner to plan your route. Nearby National Rail stations include West Dulwich and North Dulwich, or use other public transport options.
Find your cycle
No wheels? No worries! There’s a whole range of different cycles – banana bikes, tandems, trikes and standard cycles – available for hire in Dulwich Park.
There’s also a Brompton Cycles hire dock at Peckham Rye for people aged 18 and above. Or cycle over from Brixton using Santander Cycles. 🚲
Top stops
Dulwich Picture Gallery
You don’t need to go into central London to view the works of Old Masters. Founded in 1811, Dulwich Picture Gallery was the first purpose-built public art gallery. See masterpieces from Rembrandt, Rubens, Gainsborough, Canaletto and more alongside contemporary exhibitions. 🖼️
Christ’s Chapel
Built in 1616, the historic Christ’s Chapel is a local icon. If you go inside, look (or listen!) out for the organ – thought to be the oldest surviving instrument from famous organ-builder George England.
Dulwich Park boating lake
Get your second wind and hire a boat from £4. Choose from a rowboat or a pedalo and set sail! 🚣
Nearby attractions
Dulwich Village
Explore the independent cafes, shops and pubs in Dulwich Village – it’s hard to believe you’re just 15 minutes from central London! 📍
Herne Hill Velodrome
Almost as old as Dulwich Park itself, Herne Hill Velodrome is a must-visit for all new and expert cyclists, and fans. Anyone can learn to cycle with their range of cycling sessions for all ages, backgrounds and abilities. There’s also racing events and off-road trails for more adventurous riders. 🚵
Parks
This leafy area of south London is surround by spectacular parks. Cycle between them or hop on public transport to visit some of the area’s best green spaces. 💚
Belair Park
Explore the picturesque grounds of Grade II listed building, Belair House and Belair Park. Loop the lake and go wildlife spotting in the conservation area or entertain the kids in the playground or skate park. 🛹
Brockwell Park
This huge 84-acre green space is a breath of fresh air in south London. Brockwell Park has something to suit all interests including a BMX track, kid’s playground, ponds and gardens. Cool off in its outdoor swimming pool or pack a picnic to enjoy with one of the best views of the London skyline.
More cycling routes
Explore more of south London with The Wandle Trail or try more traffic-free cycle rides. 🗺️
Where to next?
North, south, east or west? Comment and let us know your favourite places to go cycling in London 👇
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