London Critical Mass
Where and when
Mass cycle ride through London's streets, sometimes with skaters for added fun. Happens on the final Friday of every month. Meet at 5.45pm (start usually around 6.30pm) on the South Bank by the National Film Theatre (south side of Waterloo bridge).
What's it about?
There is no stated agenda. Some people like to view it as a celebration of cycling, or as a reminder that London doesn't have to be a car-dominated city. Some of us just enjoy the chance to experience London in a sociable, traffic-free setting, with the excuse to go and eat some place after all that "exercise". Critical Mass is fun, and you get to notice architecture and details that will probably completely escape you when cycling in busy urban traffic.
Over the years Critical Mass has gained excellent support from the police, who now attend on pedal cycles as well as motorcycles. The ride has a friendly atmosphere and very slow pace - ideal for families as well as individuals.
For more information see Critical Mass London.
Some photos from Critical Mass
May 2005
Hundreds of riders, and once again a very enjoyable evening...
After leaving the Southbank complex underneath Waterloo Bridge, the ride normally makes its way across the bridge towards the Strand, giving participants a great view of the Thames, the City, St. Pauls to the east, and the London Eye and Palace of Westminster upstream.
People of all ages come along and enjoy the Critical Mass rides.
Policeman on bicycle. Critical Mass rides are invariably escorted by several police officers on mountain bikes. They help the ride keep moving and free of interruptions from motor vehicles.
A pedestrian enjoying the procession.
A recumbent rider crossing Waterloo Bridge.
On the way home from a party in the East End that followed the 11th anniversary ride, we had to wait a few minutes for a boat to sail under the raised Tower Bridge - time enough for this picture of the Tower of London. The "Gherkin" and Lloyd's building can be seen behind.
For more pictures, see our Critical Mass 2002 page.
