Thames River Tour
Skill level = easy
Approx. time = 2 1/2 hours
Distance = 10 km
For this ride, we’ll travel up the North Branch of the Thames River on a quiet multi-use pathway en route to Western University. Here you’ll marvel at Gothic architecture that would even excite the set designer of a Harry Potter movie. You’ll glide through quiet neighbourhood streets, ride down hidden laneways, and pass through the “Banana Kingdom.”
Along the way, we’ll cross the Thames River on scenic bridges numerous times, wander through peaceful parks, and ride atop an elevated dike! You’ll discover why so many houses in London are made with distinctive yellow bricks, learn about unique London doorways, and see firsthand what has been done to protect neighbourhoods when the Thames River floods.
And yes, we can add a stop for refreshments at the local bistro. On our tours, we’re never in a hurry. You determine the pace.
What to expect:
All tours will be run by an experienced guide who is certified in First Aid, CPR, and AED.
Before we start, we’ll ensure your helmet fits and your bicycle is expertly adjusted for size and comfort. Then comes a short safety demonstration.
Just so you know, central London is quite flat. The few hills we do come across are fairly easy to navigate.
We’ll be making good use of London’s extensive network of trails and protected bicycle lanes. Along the way, we use quiet residential streets and laneways, only crossing a few busy streets as needed. Your safety is our top priority.
When to arrive:
Please note: If you arrive exactly at departure time, you’re actually gonna be late! We know you won’t want to hold up the rest of the group by arriving “just on time,” and we’d hate to leave you behind. So…
At a minimum, please arrive 15 minutes before your tour is scheduled to begin. (Fifteen minutes is the length of time we set aside for you to get fitted for your bicycle and helmet.)
Heck, you probably want to arrive 30 minutes early so you can buy a quick drink or grab a bite to eat at the London Bicycle Café. Partake of their wonderful Dutch-inspired menu, meet their friendly staff, and enjoy their all-inclusive pricing. Then relax on the spacious patio outside or cozy seating inside.
Where we meet:
- Our tour begins and ends at the London Bicycle Cafe, 320 Thames Street, Unit 101, London, ON.
What’s provided:
- a fully adjustable city touring bicycle (the non-electric Tern Link model) with seven gears and a small basket for your belongings
- our bicycles fit riders from 4’10’’ to 6’5” (147 to 195 cm) and up to 230 pounds (104 kg)
- a safety helmet
- a knowledgeable guide
What to bring:
- comfortable shoes (closed-toed)
- weather-appropriate clothing (think layers)
- your phone to capture and share memories
- sunscreen
- refillable water bottle
- personal snacks
- an appetite for fun and adventure.
Starting at $150/guest