London St Pancras to Waterloo

From Pedalpushers

Kings X/St Pancras to Waterloo

Preamble

This route is useful for trips to the South Coast - Portsmouth & Southampton trains amongst others go from Waterloo, for France, Spain & the Isle of Wight.

The key to successful and safe cycling in London traffic is Lane Control. Check behind you, signal and make a decisive manoeuvre and you'll be OK. Drivers are far more accustomed to cyclists than in Sheffield, and although the traffic may seem daunting it's generally moving more slowly than elsewhere. Just because other cyclists ignore red lights, cycle on the pavement, and overtake on the inside, doesn't mean you have to. In general there is a London Cycle Network route paralleling the major roads, but it is usually quicker, if more stressful, to keep to the main roads. A "Seven Stations" route is under development to link all the main line stations in London, and we look forward to seeing that on the ground.

When I first wrote this guide the cycle routes in London were patchy, but under the guidance of Red Ken they've got really good, so I can now say with confidence that you should just follow the cycle route signs in London rather than follow these directions.

The Route

Cross Euston Rd and head West (W) Follow l. bike filter to Marchmont St. Straight down to l. Bernard St, Wick Sq, r. on Guilford St, r. Lamb's Conduit St (If you're thirsty the Lamb is an excellent watering hole, and the Bikefix advanced cycle shop is also along here) r. on Holborn, l. to Kingsway (gets busier here) l. Aldwych, SWITCH LANES to RH. & Follow Waterloo Bridge signs, switching back to LH lane into Lancaster Place, then over the bridge. Take the left bike filter at the southern end of the bridge, l. under the bridge, l. and cross York Rd, you're there.

On return journey it's slightly more tricky. At north of Waterloo Br. take bike gate up to Covent Garden, follow cycle route signs to Euston. After Russell Square, which is a nice place for a rest and has a good cafe, turn right onto Tavistock Rd. You'll find yourself on Judd St which will take you up to Euston Rd, St Pancras is directly in front. Cycle access to St Pancras International isn't great - walk if necessary.

It's quicker than the Northern Line!