The Oyster Effect
Cycle Orbital uses and adds to the existing Sustrans National Cycle Network, but has a specific advantage: it exploits the fact that off-peak rail travel is free or low-cost to TfL Freedom Pass, Oyster and season ticket holders.
With that weak economic friction, you are liberated to devise a trip that does not have to return to the start point, anywhere around the capital - and liberated from the use of a car. It will open up a range of new excursions for urban cyclists in particular.
Network Developments
Cycle Orbital research began back in 2015. Since then some important improvements in connectivity have come to fruition (most especially the Elizabeth Line, which has not only opened up Central London stations to off-peak access for bikes, being TfL-operated allows low-cost and free access all the way to Shenfield in the east, Reading in the west). A new London Bridge station and track layout at both ends has transformed the north-south Thameslink service, and the Overground service and network has both expanded and improved immeasurably.
Timetabling, post Covid
While most of Cycle Orbital was recce'd pre Covid and this website largely in place 2020-21, there have been steady additions and 'tweaks' to the network since. However, the pattern of commuting, work-from-home and other socio-economic factors have radically altered timetabling, especially of commuter lines. As a rule of thumb, outer London services are halved (half-hourly to hourly; quarter-hourly to half-hourly). Rather than attempt to keep this website up to date, you are advised to use the many apps to plan your excursion.