Special access: how you can cycle round London’s top attractions
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Would you like to get behind the scenes of some of London’s biggest attractions? Now’s your chance. Santander Cycles’ Summer of Cycling festival offers the opportunity to explore the Science Museum, ZSL London Zoo, the Thames and some of London’s most famous buildings in a unique way – by Santander Cycle.
Formula 1 Champion and Santander ambassador Jenson Button launched the festival at the Science Museum in London, saying: “The Summer of Cycling will come alive with a great set of events, giving people the chance to do some fantastic things in some of the capital’s most amazing places. Anyone who enjoys getting out and about should go to www.santander.co.uk/cycles and see how they can get involved.”
The four festival events will be held between July and September:
The Science Museum – An after-hours guided cycling Twilight Tour on Santander Cycles through some of the museum’s galleries, stopping to hear from curators about the stories behind the exhibits. Dates in July and August.
Totally Thames – A month-long celebration of everything connected to the River Thames, Santander Cycles will run activities at Potters Fields Park on 5 and 6 September. Experiences to be announced.
ZSL London Zoo – See the animals wake up and eat their breakfast on a Sunrise Cycle though the zoo, guided by staff, before the general public are allowed in. Groups will stop at the enclosures to hear more about the animals from their keepers. Dates: 11, 12 and 13 September.
Open House London – Experience amazing architecture across the capital when over 800 buildings open their doors for free. Santander Cycles will offer exclusive access to selected buildings and gardens, including Lambeth Palace (the Archbishop of Canterbury's London residence), where there will be a Sunset Cycle on 19 September. Additional venues to be confirmed.
“Summertime in London is the perfect time to take to two wheels and explore the city’s many hidden treasures,” said Mayor of London, Boris Johnson. “These new festivals are a great way to encourage people to try out Santander Cycles and further embed cycling into the hearts and minds of Londoners and visitors to the capital.”
For more information and to check event dates, visit www.santander.co.uk/cycles (terms and conditions apply). For regular updates, follow @SantanderCycles on Twitter. There will be a prize draw for ticketed experiences, and winners will be announced online.
