All night London Christmas lights ride

A few weeks ago, Dr John and I put a date into the calendar for a Christmas all night ride in London. Last Friday (13th) was that day, so just before midnight we met at our usual starting point.

I arrived in good time soon Dr John did too, perhaps surprised at my new addition to the fleet. We wasted little time and soon headed off into the night. The route loaded into my Wahoo started from near Trafalgar Square and passed not too far from where we had met, so I decided to pick it up from there. The Wahoo however, for reasons unknown, didn't take kindly to this and was not cooperating. In the end we headed back to the start as we had lots of time on our hands. 

We knew that by the time we reached the really famous Christmas lights they would be turned off but this ride was more about taking in whatever was there to be seen, cycling through the night and catching up.

The first location that proved rather pretty was Borough Market. Normally this is heaving and it was strange to see it totally empty.

We headed London Bridge and Tooley Street and then, the London viewing area not far from the London Mayor's office. 

Even Dr John was taking the odd photo - something he only does occasionally - so we were both at it. 

We headed out further east to Canary Wharf which was pretty empty. As said, we knew that doing this would mean that when we returned to Oxford Street and Regents Street (where the most famous Christmas lights can be found), the lights would be turned off. It did however result in the roads being a little quieter and therefore worthwhile doing. 

We arrived at the Greenwich foot tunnel, which by law is required to be open 24 hours. Naturally, it provided a few photo opportunities. It was good fun. Unbeknownst to us, inside lift at the other end of the tunnel someone was there sleeping in their sleeping bag. It made me feel quite guilty and a sobering reminder of how lucky I am. 

Crossing the Millennium foot bridge we headed back towards Central London on fairly quiet roads. Of course, London was still awash with all manner of people out and about. 

The lights on Regents Street and Oxford Street were off, but there were lots on Bond Street. Many of the high-end shops had competing displays as we cycled down. 

On Piccadilly, Fortnum and Mason had a lovely display - as usual. My late mum used to have a few haunts mainly of the cup of tea and cake variety and this place was one of them, so fond memories. I haven’t been there many times since. 

Our last stop was Covent Garden. Normally a location I avoid during daylight hours as it is so busy. In the early hours it was empty - apart from a few tourists taking photos. 

I had to pay a visit to Brompton Junction as I knew the window would feature a G-Line. 

After this, Dr John and I tried to find somewhere open to get an early breakfast from about 06:00. Sadly, we didn’t have any luck (even at Euston Station). We said our goodbyes and Dr John went to get his train and I headed north. Many thanks to Dr John for his company and friendship. 

As I reached Swain’s Lane I felt that I had got to know my G-Line a little better and very pleased that I have one. When making my ascent, mist or fog gently travelled from the east to west side of the cemetery. I was glad to cycle past it, despite it making things a little like a Victorian Christmas!

Until next time, stay safe out there people.