Transport for London is bringing back Cycle Sundays with free Santander Cycle rides every Sunday in August.
Launched last year, TfL’s Cycle Sundays encourages those who are new to cycling to give it a go with beginner-friendly routes and cycle training tips.
“With Cycle Sundays, TfL is encouraging Londoners and visitors to the capital, especially those who are new to cycling, to try exploring London by bike on Sundays,” the local government body says.
Even if you’re a confident cyclist, the scheme has its perks, with Santander Cycles offering free unlimited 60-minute rides to everyone in the capital.
To take advantage of the free travel, you’ll need to claim a free day pass via the TfL website or Santander discounts pages. They can be redeemed at any Santander Cycles docking terminal by choosing a day pass and entering the code.
You’ll also be able to use Santander’s electric bikes, but there are stipulations. “This year, for the first time, Santander ebikes can also be redeemed as part of the day pass offer, but they must be hired via the Santander Cycles app or with a membership key and are only available to registered members,” says TfL.
Membership is free and can be created online or through the Santander Cycles app.
The Cycle Sundays announcement comes two days after TfL celebrated 15 years of hire bikes in the city. TfL launched hire bikes in 2010 with 315 docking stations across the capital. Now, there are more than 800 docking stations and more than 12,000 bikes, including more than 2,000 ebikes, in use.
TfL has also partnered with Strava and Komoot for this year’s Cycle Sundays “for easy ways to access and track leisure routes across London, including in outer London boroughs”.
“Riders will be able to see the map in real time with directions, track their route length, see the route difficulty level, elevation levels and how busy the road is,” TfL says.
A list of routes can be found on the TfL Cycle Sundays website, which can be accessed through Strava and Komoot.
Will Norman, London's walking and cycling commissioner, says: “Cycling can be for everyone and it really is the best way to explore London this summer, with more than 410km of cycling routes available for both beginners and experienced riders.
“The Mayor and I are encouraging everyone to take up this fantastic offer as we continue to champion cycling and build a healthier, greener and more accessible London for everyone.”
