I'm considering commuting (cycling)into London from Sidcup, Kent. This a a journey of around 12 miles I believe.
If anyone else does this or similar can they please advise on the best route. (Best for me would mean safest rather than quickest).
Any other advice would also be welcome.
I used to commute from Lewisham to central London (Gloucester Road) at 6am for a 7am start. I used to slip stream the 36B to Vauxhall. However, I don't think that's what you have in mind, and besides, they've long since retired the old and slow RT busses on that route.
I suggest you make your way to Avery Hill, Well Hall Roundabout, Blackheath Standard, Greenwich (via the Park) then follow the Thames Path to central London. You can choose which bridge to cross.
I'm considering commuting (cycling)into London from Sidcup, Kent. This a a journey of around 12 miles I believe.
If anyone else does this or similar can they please advise on the best route. (Best for me would mean safest rather than quickest).
Any other advice would also be welcome. Thanks.
I can't help with the route but I do a similar distance (14 miles). You should definitely consider cycling shorts, base layer and jersey(s). A lightweight shower/windproof roll-up jacket and overshoes ( I use Eager overshoes ) will take care of rainy journeys. I take shirts and undies in to work on Monday and bring them home on Friday. I get trousers dry-cleaned near where I work and have access to a shower.
For many years I used the same route coming from SW London , what I call the "Northern Line" route. With busier roads and more traffic lights I've started to seek out a less congested commute. Sometimes it adds one or two miles but it's safer, more enjoyable and less stressful.