Cycling through Cudham, South of London

Although it is not far from London's suburban sprawl, Cudham feels like it belongs much deeper in the Kent countryside. As you cycle along Cudham Lane South, you'll pass converted oast houses, built from local flint, and the whitewashed Blacksmith's Arms, which dates from the 17th century.

Brixton Street Vibes, South London

 

Atlantic Road, Brixton

Arundel, Sussex

On the southern edge of the South Downs National Park, the ancient town of Arundel overlooks the marshes and wetlands that surround the river Arun. The 1,000-year old seat of the Dukes of Norfok, Arundel Castle looms high above this atmospheric town and port.  Although much of it has been rebuilt over the centuries, the castle, which contains 40 acres of grounds and gardens, dates back to 1068.

Next to the castle, is the Parish Church of St. Nicholas, built in 1380, while further down the high street is a Georgian coaching inn, The Norfolk Arms, built by the 10th Duke of Norfolk. Upholding an 18th century tradition, the Arundel Society for the Prosecution of Thieves and Felons still holds its annual dinner at this hotel.

Arundel's striking cathedral, which also sits high on a hillside, was built as a church by the 15th Duke of Norfolk, Earl Marshal, between 1868 and 1873 in French Gothic style.  It was re-designated as a cathedral in 1965. It celebrates the feast of Corpus Christi – the Body and Blood of Christ, 60 days after Easter. A  carpet of flowers is laid out a few days before the Mass and a procession of the Blessed Sacrament to Arundel Castle.

Highbury Place, Islington, North London

 

Overlooking the greenery of Highbury Fields, Highbury Place is a handsome and well-preserved Georgian terrace, which still has intact cast-iron railings and period lampposts. As it doesn't see much motorised traffic, Highbury Place is also a pleasant place to cycle or walk.

Pitfield Street, East London

Popular with cyclists, Pitfield Street runs north to south and retains some of its old London charm, despite losing a fine old pub - the Hop Pole - back in the eighties.

Shepherdess Walk, Central London

In the trendy neighbourhood of Hoxton, Shepherdess Walk runs down towards City Road. It is home to the Eagle Tavern, which dates from 1820 and features in a verse of the nursery rhyme Pop Goes the Weasel:

Up and down the City Road,

In and out the Eagle,

That's the way the money goes,

Pop! Goes the weasel.

Knaresborough, Yorkshire

 

Famous for its stone viaduct across the River Nidd, Knaresborough also has steep cobbled streets, a medieval castle and some pleasant parks.  Approximately 100 metres long and 30 metres high, the viaduct was built in 1851 by Thomas Grainger for the Leeds & Thirsk Railway. The pseudo-medieval design is a nod to Knaresborough castle, which was rebuilt in the early 14th century by Edward I (1272 to1307) as part of his campaign against the Scots, and completed under his son, King Edward II (1307 to 1327). 

Buckingham Palace, Central London

 

 

Cars have largely been excluded from the roads in the vicinity of Buckingham Palace, but cyclists can still weave their way past the plentiful traffic furniture and tourist throngs.