Ford RideLondon, one of the capital’s biggest mass-participation cycling events, is returning this bank holiday weekend.
The standard London- Essex ride is expected to see thousands pedal in the 100-mile rides — either for charity or for a personal challenge.
There are also 60 and 30-mile alternatives, while RideLondon also encompasses the Classique, a three-day event that is part of the UCI Women’s WorldTour, and the Ford RideLondon FreeCycle.
London boroughs have been warning residents about potential road interruptions as around 25,000 riders are set to take part.
Will Norman, London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, told the RideLondon website: “After the success of RideLondon in 2022, I can’t wait to return to the streets of London and Essex for this year’s event.
“Ford RideLondon is a much-anticipated yearly highlight for the capital, with something for everyone to enjoy — from new cyclists who want to gain confidence, to more experienced riders looking for a chance to push themselves, plus the chance to cheer on the professionals.
“Cycling has seen a huge boom in London and this brilliant event will inspire people to take advantage of an environmentally friendly, cost-effective and fun way of getting around.”
RideLondon aims to promote cycling and encourage people of all ages and abilities to get on their bikes. The event was first held in 2013 as part of the legacy of the London Olympic Games in 2012.
Here is all you need to know about this year’s 10th anniversary event.
When is RideLondon 2023?
All three mass-participation rides are on Sunday, May 28.
The Classique begins on Friday, May 26, with stage one. Stage two is on Saturday, May 27, while the final stage is on Sunday, May 28.
The Ford RideLondon FreeCycle is on Sunday, May 28.
Can anyone join RideLondon 2023, and is it free?
The Ford RideLondon FreeCycle does not cost anything and anyone can take part.
Thousands are expected to enjoy a gentle ride around a landmark-laden loop on traffic-free roads in the heart of central London from 10am to 3pm.
It is also possible to take part if you do not have a bike of your own.
For more information, click here: www.ridelondon.co.uk/our-rides/ridelondon-freecycle
Entries to the other mass participation races have closed.
What is the RideLondon 2023 route?
All routes will start on Victoria Embankment in central London and finish at Tower Bridge.
The 100-mile ride will head out of London past the Olympic Park and through the London boroughs of Westminster, City of London, Tower Hamlets, Newham, Hackney, Waltham Forest and Redbridge. It will then go through Essex via Epping Forest. In Essex, it will take in Epping, Ongar, Great Dunmow, Felsted and Writtle before heading back.
The 60-mile event will not go any further than Epping, while the 30-mile version turns around at Woodford in north London.
How to plan your journey around the race
There will be minimal road closures required for May 26 and 27 but more will be in force on the Sunday. For full closure information, click here for London or Essex.
For more information on the entire event, visit this website.
You can also check out our guide on the best apps for helping you to get around London during particularly busy times.
