Navigating London with your bicycle can be a fantastic way to see the city, but sometimes public transport is essential. Understanding the rules for taking your bike on trains, buses, and other services can significantly simplify your journey. This guide outlines the regulations for cyclists using London Overground, Elizabeth line, DLR, and other transport options, ensuring you know when and where you can bring your bike.
London Overground Cycle Policy
London Overground welcomes bicycles at off-peak times. You can bring your bike on board Monday to Friday, but only:
- Between 09:30 and 16:00
- After 19:00
- Anytime on weekends and bank holidays
However, be aware of peak hour restrictions. Bikes are not allowed on Overground services Monday to Friday before 07:30 and between 07:30 and 09:30.
There’s a specific exception for non-folded bikes on trains leaving Liverpool Street towards Chingford, Enfield Town, or Cheshunt, which are permitted between 07:30 and 09:30. Similarly, non-folded bikes arriving at Liverpool Street from these destinations are allowed between 16:00 and 19:00.
Elizabeth Line Bicycle Regulations
The Elizabeth line also has specific times when non-folded cycles are permitted during the week:
- Liverpool Street:
- Arriving (from Shenfield): Before 07:30 and after 09:30
- Leaving (towards Shenfield): Before 16:00 and after 19:00
- Paddington:
- Arriving (from the west): Before 07:30 and after 09:30
- Leaving (towards the west): Before 16:00 and after 19:00
- Between Paddington and Abbey Wood: Allowed before 07:30, between 09:30 and 16:00, and after 19:00
Like the Overground, weekends and bank holidays offer more flexibility, with bikes allowed at any time on the Elizabeth line.
It’s crucial to note that you cannot change to the Tube with non-folded bikes at certain Elizabeth line stations, including Tottenham Court Road, Bond Street, Paddington, Liverpool Street, and Stratford, when transferring to specific lines. Plan your route carefully if you intend to combine Elizabeth line and Tube travel with a non-folded bicycle.
Docklands Light Railway (DLR) Cycle Access
The DLR generally follows off-peak rules similar to the Overground and Elizabeth line:
- Monday to Friday: Allowed before 07:30, between 09:30 and 16:00, and after 19:00
- Weekends and bank holidays: Anytime
However, a key restriction applies to Bank station. Only folded bicycles are permitted on DLR services to and from Bank station at all times. If you’re traveling to or from Bank, ensure your bike is folded before boarding.
National Rail Services and Bikes
For travel beyond London’s immediate public transport network, National Rail services have varying cycle policies depending on the operator. The best way to check is to use the PlusBike icon on the National Rail journey planner. This will indicate services where bikes are permitted.
For detailed information, visit the National Rail’s Train travels with bicycles page. This resource offers comprehensive guidance on taking bikes on different National Rail routes.
Buses and Trams: Not Bike-Friendly
Unfortunately, non-folded bicycles are not allowed on London buses and trams. If you’re planning to use these modes of transport, you will need to consider alternative options or ensure your bicycle is foldable and meets the size requirements for folded bikes on buses (if permitted – generally folding bikes are easier on trains and not commonly allowed even folded on buses in London).
River Services for Cyclists
London’s river services offer a more bike-friendly approach. Most river services allow non-folded cycles, providing a scenic alternative to наземный transport. However, it’s always recommended to check with the specific river service operator before you travel to confirm their bicycle policy and any potential restrictions.
IFS Cloud Cable Car: Bikes Welcome
For a unique travel experience across the Thames, the IFS Cloud Cable Car welcomes non-folded bicycles at any time. This can be a convenient option for cyclists traveling between Greenwich Peninsula and Royal Docks, offering stunning views of the city.
Coaches: Check Before You Travel
Coach travel policies for bicycles vary significantly between companies. If you are planning to take your bike on a coach, it’s essential to check directly with the coach company beforehand to understand their specific regulations and any charges or restrictions that may apply.
Conclusion: Planning Your Cycle-Public Transport Journey
Combining cycling with public transport in London is achievable with careful planning. By understanding the rules for each mode of transport – London Overground, Elizabeth line, DLR, and National Rail – you can navigate the city effectively with your bike. Always remember to check for any updates or changes to these policies on the official Transport for London (TfL) and National Rail websites before you travel to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
