The Original East London Bike Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see London beyond the usual tourist crowds, this half-day bike tour offers an engaging alternative. For just under $62, you’ll spend approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes cycling through vibrant neighborhoods, historic sites, and lively markets. Led by a knowledgeable guide (some reviews mention a certain Doug who makes the experience fun and insightful), this tour takes you from the bustling Southbank past the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, across the Tower Bridge, and through the Docklands area, ending at the stunning St. Paul’s Cathedral.

What makes this experience stand out are two key features: first, the focus on lesser-known parts of East London that most visitors miss—like quiet canals and hidden street art—and second, the chance to sample the city’s culinary delights at Borough Market, a food lover’s paradise. The bikes are comfortable and suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it accessible to most travelers.

A potential consideration is that this tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off—so you’ll need to get to the starting point on Kennington Road. Also, since it’s a guided group activity, it’s best for those comfortable with cycling in a city environment and who enjoy learning about local history through a lively guide.

This bike tour is perfect for active travelers eager for an alternative perspective on London, especially those interested in architecture, food, and neighborhoods off the beaten path. Families, history buffs, and foodies alike will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Unique Perspective: Explore parts of London that are often overlooked in traditional sightseeing tours.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit iconic sites like Tower Bridge and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre from a new angle.
• Food & Markets: Enjoy browsing and sampling at Borough Market, one of London’s most famous food halls.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, wit, and passion for the city.
• Suitability: The tour is accessible for all ages over 10 and various fitness levels.
• Value: At around $62, this tour offers a lot of memorable sights and experiences packed into a manageable timeframe.

An In-Depth Look at the East London Bike Tour

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour begins at 74 Kennington Rd, an easy-to-reach spot near public transportation. Once you arrive, you meet your guide, who helps you select a helmet and a bike suited to your size. We found the process smooth—no fuss, just a quick safety briefing, and we’re off.

The tour is designed to blend sightseeing with active exploration, making it a great choice for those who want to get some exercise while discovering the city. It’s not a leisurely walk, but with plenty of stops, it’s manageable for most ages and fitness levels.

The Highlights: An Itinerary Breakdown

1. Tate Modern
Your adventure kicks off with a visit to the Tate Modern. From the outside, it’s a striking former power station—now home to some of the world’s best contemporary art. Your guide shares insights into the building’s history, although you won’t go inside (admission is free). We loved the way the guide made a quick mention of the museum’s transformation from industrial site to cultural hub—adding context that makes the outside view more meaningful.

2. Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
Next, you cycle along the river to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. It’s a near-replica of the original Elizabethan playhouse, and your guide talks about its reconstruction and role in London’s theatrical scene today. You’ll stop for about five minutes—enough to snap some photos and hear a few fun facts. It’s a great way to connect London’s literary history with its vibrant modern arts scene.

3. Borough Market
One of the tour’s best features is a stop at Borough Market, a haven for food lovers. There’s plenty to see, smell, and taste. The guide discusses the market’s history and its influence on London’s culinary scene. We found browsing the stalls a delightful break—sampling fresh produce, baked goods, and street food. One reviewer raved, “Loved it,” emphasizing how the market served as a highlight and a chance to experience the city’s local flavors.

4. Tower Bridge and Skyline Views
Crossing Tower Bridge is an iconic London moment. From the saddle of your bike, you’ll get great views of the London Shard and The Gherkin, buildings that define London’s skyline. The guide points out architectural details and explains how the city has evolved into a modern metropolis while retaining its historic core.

5. The Docklands & The Square Mile
Your route takes you through the Docklands, an area that used to be purely industrial but now features sleek warehouses, new developments, and waterside pubs. We especially appreciated the stop at a waterside pub where you could buy a drink—perfect for soaking in the atmosphere before moving on. Cycling through the Square Mile, London’s historic financial district, you’ll pass sites like Mansion House and the Royal Exchange, architectural gems that tell stories of London’s economic past.

6. St. Paul’s Cathedral
The tour wraps up with a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral, a masterpiece by Sir Christopher Wren. The guide shares stories about its construction and significance, and you have time to take photos of its impressive dome. It’s a fitting grand finale to a day of exploring both historic and modern London.

What We Loved and What to Consider

We loved the way the guide wove stories and historical tidbits into each stop, making the ride educational as well as scenic. The bikes were comfortable, and the route was thoughtfully planned to include a mix of sights, neighborhoods, and food experiences.

A highlight for many is Borough Market—sampling local produce and soaking up the lively atmosphere. As one reviewer said, “You can tell Doug is passionate about his city and wants to share that love,” and we agree that passionate guides make all the difference.

On the downside, the tour does not include hotel transportation, so you need to plan how to get to the starting point. Also, while suitable for most, those with very limited cycling experience might find some parts a bit challenging, especially crossing busy areas like Tower Bridge.

The Value for Your Money

At $61.90 per person, this tour offers a lot of value—combining sightseeing, active travel, and local flavor in one package. The inclusion of bike hire, helmets, and a knowledgeable guide means you’re all set for a comfortable and informative experience without extra costs. Compared to typical guided tours that focus on one or two sights, this bike tour packs in multiple neighborhoods and landmarks, making it a good investment for travelers wanting a broader, more authentic look at London.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits active travelers who want to see different sides of London and enjoy a bit of exercise with their sightseeing. It’s ideal for those interested in architecture, history, and food. Families with older children (over age 10) will appreciate the manageable pace and engaging guide. It’s perfect if you prefer guided storytelling over solo wandering and want to experience the city’s vibrant neighborhoods without the hassle of navigating on your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?
Not at all. The tour is suitable for most ages and fitness levels, and bikes are chosen to match your size. The route includes some busy areas, but the guide manages the group smoothly.

Are helmets provided?
Yes. Helmets are included and fitted at the start of the tour for your safety.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including stops. The actual riding time is manageable and punctuated with visits and breaks.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and perhaps a small backpack for any purchases or snacks at Borough Market. The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, but you can buy from local stalls.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 10. Children over that age who are comfortable on bikes will enjoy the mix of sights and stories.

Does the tour include access to the museums or attractions?
No, the stops at Tate Modern, Globe Theatre, and St. Paul’s are outside visits with no entry included. The focus is on sightseeing and photos.

Final Thoughts

The Original East London Bike Tour offers an engaging, active way to explore London’s diverse neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and culinary hotspots. It’s well-suited for curious travelers who want more than the typical sightseeing route, enjoying authentic local flavors combined with scenic cycling. The knowledgeable guides and flexible route make it a memorable addition to any London itinerary.

If you’re looking for a fun, informative, and active way to see London, especially if you’re keen on discovering lesser-known areas, this tour is definitely worth considering. It balances history, architecture, and food with a relaxed pace—perfect for those wanting to experience London like a local, on two wheels.