London Victoria to Tower Bridge

Route Details

• From - to: Tower Hill to Victoria Park
• Type: Residential roads, towpaths, off-road tracks
• Access: Tower Gateway DLR, Limehouse DLR, Mile End tube station, Hackney Wick overground
• Surface: Tarmac/ paved / gravel towpaths, tarmac path tracks
• National Cycle Network: Route 1

Route Description

The route begins at the historic Tower of London, making this ideal for tourists and Londoners wanting to explore east London whilst avoiding busy roads.

Starting on residential roads, the route then passes through much of east London’s hidden treasures, including the Ornamental Canal, a picturesque section of canal that boasts interesting features left over from the canal’s hey day, including restored boats and locks.

If you’re in an adventurous mood then the Shadwell Basin Outdoor Activity Centre, a short distance into the route, offers sailing and kayaking on the Thames. From here the route heads along National Cycle Network 1 on a series of very quiet residential routes, many of which are blocked off partially to motorised traffic, providing a more pleasant environment.

From here the route runs through Mile End Park, where you may wish to leave the route and visit the leisure centre, try out the go-kart track or simply have a rest on the grass. There is also a link to the towpath via the bridge at Haverfield Road for those that might prefer to cycle along the canal.

The route ends in Victoria Park, one of the largest green spaces in east London. The Park boasts a number of sporting facilities including football pitches, cricket wickets, tennis courts, a rugby pitch and a bowling green.

Local attractions

• The Tower of London
• Shadwell Basin Outdoor Activity Centre
• River Thames
• Mile End Park (go-kart track, leisure centre)
• Victoria Park (sporting facilities)