Cycle through the city without traffic fumes and congestion in a series of summer Skyrides. London has several free cycle events taking place around the city, with larger Skyrides planned for the end of the summer.

British cycling
The Skyride events are organised by Sky and British Cycling with the aim of putting the fun back into cycling and hundreds of cyclists are expected to take part in the Skyrides. London has lots more to offer than the constricted bike lanes that run through the city centre. You can take a leisurely ride through London's parks, enjoy an exhilirating off-road trip or soak up some culture with the more historical Skyrides.

Skyrides in the Capital
The local Skyrides take place at various locations and at various times on weekends throughout summer. In September there's a special Mayor of London Skyride, but not before the Hillingdon Skyride on 31st July and the Barking and Dagenham Skyride on 21st August. To get in some practise before these big events, you can also take part in the local Skyrides.

Mayor of London Skyride

Highlight events for the 2011 London Skyrides are as follows:

Central London Four Parks
For a scenic traffic-free cycle, take the Central London Four Parks Skyride. This sets off from the Queen Victoria Memorial on The Mall and takes in famous green havens such as Hyde Park. As it's an easy ride, the whole family can get involved. The four mile ride takes around 80 minutes to complete, and is suitable for confident cyclists.

Lower Lea Valley River Ride
A scenic ride for the family is the Lower Lea Valley River Ride. At 12.8 miles long, this relaxed cycle takes around 130 minutes to complete. It's a perfect trip for little ones and takes you past a landscape that's soon to host the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Osterley and Syon Parks Circular
If, however, you fancy taking your cycling up a gear, head to the Osterley and Syon Parks Circular Skyride, one of the more challenging of the Skyrides London events. This brisk ride gives cyclists the chance find their rhythm with a 14.2 mile ride around parkland, canal towpaths and quiet roads.

The Barracks and Brook
To enjoy the greenery and wildlife take a tour along the Ingles Barracks and Dollis Brook. It's suitable for mountain bikes and takes around 135 minutes.

Country rides
If you fancy escaping the hustle and bustle of city there are more rural Skyrides. London cyclists can take a short train or car ride to enjoy the Along the Downs to Downe cycle through country lanes in Surrey and Kent. You have to be fairly fit to do the ride as it's hilly and it takes around two and a half hours.

Safer cycling
All participants get a T-shirt and hi-vis vest and all you need to take part is a bike and lots of enthusiasm. However, to ensure you have a safe ride it's recommended, and compulsory for under 18s to wear a helmet. If it's a sunny day don't forget to wear plenty of sunscreen and sunglasses, or if it's not so bright pack some waterproofs. It's also recommended that you pack some lunch, a water bottle and a camera for the sights along the way!

The London Skyride events take place every Sunday throughout the summer. Start times and tours vary and events are free to participate in.

To register your interest click on the link below.

Skyride Official Site

Cycle Hire Scheme London

Free Fitness Classes at The Scoop

London Lidos

Tree Athlon London

Race for Life London

Great River Race

Free Fitness Classes at The Scoop

Tree Athlon London

London Fields Lido