London's cycle network has officially surpassed the tube network in length, now spanning 450km—a fivefold increase since 2016. Transport for London (TfL) announced this week that the cycleway network, which was only 90km a decade ago, has expanded significantly, with an estimated 43 percent increase in cycling journeys across the capital.
Expansion details and new cycleways
The latest growth includes several new additions: an extra 4km in Islington, 2.5km between Camden Town and King's Cross, a 1.6km link between Wandsworth Common and Clapham Common, and a 0.5km extension along Ewell Road in Kingston. More cycleways are planned for southeast London and the northwest of the city, according to TfL.
This milestone means the cycle network is now longer than the entire tube network and further than the distance from London to Paris, highlighting the scale of the city's investment in cycling infrastructure.
Mayor's statement on cycling progress
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: 'I'm proud to have overseen a dramatic expansion of London's cycle network, making it easier and safer for people across the capital to choose cycling for everyday journeys. I said I'd make London a byword for cycling - promise made, promise delivered.'
He added: 'This progress is transforming the way Londoners travel, improving our health and cleaning our air to help us build a greener city. But there is more to do. I'm determined to keep working closely with Transport for London, boroughs and communities on expanding and improving our cycle network so we can create a greener, safer, better London for everyone.'
Impact and future plans
The 43 percent increase in cycling journeys reflects a broader trend of bike usage in London, supported by the expanded network. TfL's data indicates that more Londoners are cycling than ever before, a shift that contributes to reduced congestion and improved air quality.
With additional cycleways in the pipeline for southeast and northwest London, the network is set to grow further, promising continued benefits for commuters and the environment. The expansion aligns with the mayor's commitment to making cycling a viable everyday transport option, with ongoing collaboration between TfL, boroughs, and communities to deliver on that vision.
