Brutal London Brompton Bicycle Ride

At the start of the overnight ride to Maldon back in September 2025, my friend Geoff kindly gifted me a map of Brutalist London. This lists the locations of some of London's choice brutalist architecture. Mapping myself out a little 11 mile route, I ventured out to try and locate as many as I could. 

As I have mentioned on another Brutalist architecture ride (and perhaps obvious as I keep doing them) I am a bit of a fan of all things Brutalist and Bauhaus. Mrs Orange and I did consider a flat at the Barbican Estate many years ago but the issue would always be the accommodation being too small and far too many people all about you. So, I have always stuck to admiring them from afar.

#1. Alexandria Road Estate, NW8

The Alexandria Road estate in NW8 is a particularly striking example of brutalist architecture, designed by the renowned architect Neave Brown in the 1960s. Characterised by its raw concrete structures and bold geometric forms, this estate reflects the ideals of social housing during a time when urban design aimed to address the needs of the community. 

I have been here a few times over the years and the residents must take in their stride people coming to photograph the place. 

Brown’s vision was to create a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, ensuring that the buildings not only served their purpose but also contributed to the surrounding environment. The estate features a series of interconnected blocks, providing residents with a sense of community while maintaining privacy.

# 2. Dunboyne Road Estate, NW3

The Dunboyne Road Estate, located in the heart of NW3, is a striking example of brutalist architecture, another designed by the renowned architect Neave Brown. Completed in the late 1960s, this estate showcases the bold, raw concrete characteristic of the brutalist movement. Brown’s design prioritised functionality and community, featuring spacious flats and communal areas that encourage social interaction among residents.

The estate is celebrated for its thoughtful integration into the surrounding landscape, with terraces and gardens that soften the starkness of the concrete. It is not accessible to the public and my photos were gained by peering in. 

#3. Camden Ambulance Station

The Camden ambulance station was designed by the renowned architect Sir Hugh Casson in 1974. This building stands out with its bold, geometric forms which are characteristic of the brutalist style. Not a favourite of mine it is nonetheless quite a unique building in terms of those surrounding it. 

#4. Number 78 South Hill Park, NW3

Nestled in Hampstead, not far from Parliament Hill, Number 78 South Hill Park is a Grade II-listed private Brutalist house, designed by the architect Brian Housden for his family. The design process began in 1958, and construction took place between 1963 and 1965. This unique home stands out with its bold, uncompromising structure, featuring a heavy concrete frame.

Heavily influenced by European modernism, Housden’s creation invites you to consider whether you think it looks out of place. It has always been a favourite of mine.

#5. The Whittington Estate

The Whittington Estate (N19) was crafted by the architects Peter Tábori and Ken Adie from the Camden Architects’ Department, under the guidance of Borough Architect Sydney Cook. Constructed between 1972 and 1979, this estate is celebrated as a “golden era” Camden housing project.

Its distinctive low-rise, high-density buildings feature the innovative “ziggurat” terrace blocks that gracefully step down the slope. Each home is designed with private outdoor space and direct street access. 

#6. The Maiden Lane Estate

The Maiden Lane Estate in Camden (NW1), built between 1979 and 1982, designed by the duo Gordon Benson and Alan Forsyth for the Camden Architects’ Department. This estate features striking white-painted concrete terraces and nautical-style balconies.

What makes Maiden Lane particularly special is its “low-rise, high-density” design, which accommodates over 400 homes, some shops, and a community centre. This thoughtful layout not only enhances the living experience but also tried to foster a sense of community among residents. A pity then that the screaming match, accompanied by much swearing could be hear while taking my photos

 

#7. Oakshott Court

Oakshott Court, constructed between 1973 and 1976, was designed primarily by the Hungarian architect Peter Tábori for the Camden Borough Council Architect’s Department, this estate is celebrated for its distinctive Ziggurat-style, featuring L-shaped red brick terraces that elegantly overlook a central courtyard.

Originally envisioned with a heavier concrete structure, the estate ultimately embraced a warmer red brick finish. Residents enjoy private balconies and open interiors adorned with birch-ply floors, complemented by the convenience of integrated underground parking. Of all of the area I visited on this ride I can say that I was very pleased I was just passing through!

#8. Brunswick Centre

The Brunswick Centre, is located at WC1N Court, NW1. This iconic structure, designed by the renowned architect Patrick Hodgkinson in the 1960s, is a brilliant example of modernist architecture. The centre was originally conceived as a mixed-use development, blending residential, commercial, and leisure spaces, which was quite innovative for its time.

#9. UCL Institute of Education

The UCL Institute of Education (IOE) building at 20 Bedford Way, London, was designed by the British architect Sir Denys Lasdun and his partners between 1970 and 1976. This Grade II* listed structure stands out with its unique “strata” design, which showcases layers of raw concrete. I have been to quite a few lectures in here in the past and always enjoyed venturing inside. 

#10. The Royal College of Physicians

The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) headquarters in Regent’s Park, London, is a Grade I listed modernist masterpiece crafted by the architect Sir Denys Lasdun. Since its opening in 1964, this building has served as the fifth home for the esteemed institution, which dates back to 1518.

Lasdun’s design merges modern architectural principles with the college’s historic needs. The use of concrete, glass, and Portland stone not only showcases innovative design but also helps to harmonise with the adjacent Nash terraces, making the blend between of old and new a little more gentle.

I enjoyed my little solo adventure and the good thing is that there are many more buildings and areas to explore on Geoff's map. Once I have mapped out a little route I will set aside some time to get out and explore. 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!

The Great Lime Bicycle Blockade

The Tower of London, a majestic fortress steeped in history, where tales of kings, queens, and the occasional beheading echo through the ages. (It is little bit like one of those awful theme parks now). But lo and behold, what greets the unsuspecting visitor? A veritable army of Lime hire bicycles parked haphazardly and blocking the pavement like the carnage from a recent battle.

You are strolling along, perhaps contemplating the Crown Jewels or the infamous ravens, when suddenly you’re confronted by a wall of bright green bicycles. It is as if a flock of London pigeons has decided to roost right in the middle of the thoroughfare. Some pedestrians tried to sidestep, bob and weave, but alas, the bicycles were relentless. They stood there, resolute, like a stubborn herd of zombies (not that dissimilar to those that use them), oblivious to the fact that they were causing a minor traffic jam for those on foot. I am all for sustainable transport and the joys of cycling, but when these Lime bicycles start blocking the pavement, they transform from eco-friendly marvels into a nuisance. 

The other day, I found myself in the midst of this bicycle blockade when walking past. There I was, minding my own business, when I realised that a poor soul was struggling to get past. Ever trying to be the gentleman, I stepped in to help as best I could. This was after I politely suggested they walk around them. The person concerned was not having any of this and continued with their circumnavigation. 

With a bit of teamwork, we managed to shift a few of the offending bicycles aside. My goodness, Lime bikes are heavy! As we cleared a path, I could not help but chuckle at the absurdity of it all. Here we were, in the shadow of a thousand years of history, grappling with a modern-day conundrum. The horrid irony of it all, was that when the poor person I attempted to help continued their - stubborn - walk, they were nearly hit by a Lime bike user who mounted the pavement to park and abandon their bike in the exact spot where the others has been parked!

So, the next time you are out and about, keep an eye out for those cheeky Lime bicycles. They may just be the unexpected obstacle in your quest for historical enlightenment! 

Until next time, stay safe out there people!

On my Brompton G-Line Through Richmond Park After Dark

Picture a crisp, clear night in Richmond Park, the moon hanging high like a giant disco ball illuminating the path ahead and me, armed with my trusty Brompton G Line, ready to traverse the vast expanse ahead. What could possibly go wrong?

The last time I cycled through Richmond Park at night was either when trying to clock up some miles for the Rapha Festive 500 I did a few years back or when making the return from Box Hill. On this occasion, I had been visiting some friends towards the south of Richmond Park, and all I had to do was get across to Barnes, where there would be sanctuary and almost certainly a pot of tea waiting for me. I had the bright idea that I could just cycle through Richmond Park. It would be quiet, an adventure and surely the most efficient route.  I didn’t have my Wahoo to navigate, but I did have my phone and could use one of the map apps.

I little known fact, if you can find a pedestrian gate to Richmond Park it is usually open after dark - unless they are carrying out the deer culls - which means you can enter with your bicycle. Mine was in the form of a G-Line. As I set off, the chill in the air was enough to freeze the thoughts in my head. I pedalled along the deserted paths, feeling like one of my favourite explorers Sir Wilfred Thesiger in a vast, uncharted wilderness. The only sounds were the gentle rustle of leaves and the occasional clatter of my teeth chattering in the cold.

With no one about, I felt like the king of the park. I could cycle wherever I pleased! Of course, I did nothing of the sort. I tried to follow the directions were screamed out by my phone, which seemed louder than it had ever been. I turned it down, not wanting to draw attention to my presence just in case some crazy types, youths, drug dealers or worse still, influencers were lurking in the park as well.

As I continued my moonlit adventure, I began to question my life choices. The cold seeped through my layers - lots of tweed and lambswool - and I could practically hear my fingers begging for mercy. “Never again,” I muttered, squinting into the darkness, trying to spot the elusive deer that Richmond Park is famous for. All I could see were shadows, and I started to wonder if they were actually just figments of my imagination or perhaps the ghosts of cyclists past, warning me to turn back.

At one point, I was pretty sure that a wild dog ran across the road ahead. What was it doing there? Was it wild? Was its owner after it? I half expected to hear “Fenton!” being screamed, but thankfully, nothing.

Eventually, I made it back to another entrance/exit, shivering and slightly regretting my decision to embrace the night and take a short cut (which believe me was not)! The Brompton and I had survived, but I vowed, never again. Richmond Park after dark? A splendid idea in theory, but in practice, I’d rather stick to my warm living room and a pot of tea and just cycle on the road!

Until next time, stay safe out there people and do not cycle in Richmond Park or any park after dark!