Breeze North London Explorer

This ride begins at Finchley Road station and ends at Kings Cross. (You can put your bike on the Metropolitan Line between the two). If coming from Harrow you need the 0930 from Pinner or the 0935 from Harrow on the Hill. The beginning of the ride is a steady climb through Hampstead and Highgate till we reach the Parkland Walk, a disused railway line and Local Nature Reserve. It's a bit bumpy and could be muddy after rain, so hybrid bikes are best. The rest of the ride is downhill or flat. We descend to Finsbury Park for our coffee stop, then through Hackney to the Regents Canal, which we follow on the towpath to Islington before rejoining quiet streets to Kings Cross. There are some places where we have to walk our bikes, so it's best to wear normal shoes/trainers, not cleats. The streets and parks of the ride are very varied, and there are good views over London. Do check your bike before you come and ensure the tyres are pumped up, the brakes work and the wheels turn freely. Bring money for the cafe, a bike lock, water and a snack if you like - we finish around 12.30 at Kings Cross and can take the train from there. Although this is only 13 miles, you need to be able to deal with a little traffic and happy to climb a few hills - you can walk them if you like.