Top 5 worth cycling to
On sunny summer days, cycling through the park or along the river to your favourite restaurant is a lot more appealing than tackling the underground or rush hour traffic. Plus, you'll have worked up a nice appetite by the time you arrive.
THE WATERWAY
54 Formosa Street, W9 (020 7266 3557) £37
A scuzzy boozer converted into stylish colour-supplement pub complete with yards of decking, The Waterway is the ideal starting point for a nine-mile cycle ride along Regent's Canal from Little Venice to Limehouse Basin. The Londoner Sausage Sandwich and a jug of Pimm's will help you on your way.
WRIGHT BROTHERS OYSTER & PORTER HOUSE
11 Stoney Street, SE1 (020 7403 9554) £35
Ben Wright and brother-in-law Robin Hancock were inspired to start their seafood supply business by a lunch of oysters plucked straight from the water in Marennes-Oleron, south-west France. Their restaurant outlet in Borough Market can be reached by the Thames Path on the South Bank.
THE LOCK DINING BAR
Heron House, Hale Wharf, Ferry Lane, N17 (020 8885 2829) £34
Chef/co-owner Adebola Adeshina, who trained with Gordon Ramsay - and it shows - has his eye on the potential that the Olympics will bring. Keen cyclists could start training on the 26 miles of paths in nearby Lee Valley Park. Roast Sunday lunch, £10 for two courses.
WILLIE GUNN
422 Garratt Lane, SW18 (020 8946 7773) £34
Before setting off on the well-marked Wandle Trail, this easygoing, friendly operation is somewhere to take on fuel. The menu covers most bases, whether it's a burger you want or Thai chicken curry.
PETERSHAM NURSERIES CAFE
Behind Petersham House, 143 Petersham Road, Richmond ( 8605 3627) £55. So right-on are the credentials here that it is amazing cars are allowed anywhere near. Ride a bike through Richmond Park to minimise your footfall and keep a grip on your sense of the ridiculous when looking at prices that make the River Cafe seem a snip. Lunch only, Wed to Sun.
Prices above estimate the cost meal with wine for one.
