Quick advice needed - Richmond Park

[NickF]

Wondering if anyone can help - I've found myself with a few hours free this afternoon and was thinking of going to Richmond Park for a spin - never been before and it sounds like a popular place. I'm a daily commuter thru' London so I'm keen to go somewhere without traffic lights/junctions every 200 yards.How long does it take to do one circuit? I cruise at 20mph on the flat in good conditions. Is there much difference between clockwise/anticlockwise round the park?Also need to get there from Southfields, SW18. Does anyone know a route that avoids having to go down the A3? Which gate would be best to start at?Thanks in advance for any help...

[london_lady]

Richmond park is open to traffic until dusk when the main gates close but you can still get into it through the pedestrian gates (as I will tonight). In October they do deer culling so the park closes at 8pm - no access for walkers/cyclists/runners.The main perimeter road is about 7miles - which way you go round is personal preference. I personally prefer anticlockwise - I prefer the left turn up the hill at Kingston gate rather than descending down it and turning right at the roundabout at the bottom.There are also roads that cut across the park to make a figure of eight loop.

[NickF]

Thks for advice - went this afternoon, had two lovely laps of the park (anti-clockwise) - such a pleasure to cycle continuously, not stopping for lights, junctions, etc.Also made me appreciate how flat my regular commute is!

[Nikolay Stoyanov]

Are there any other places like Richmond Park in/around London?

[daft punk]

Epping Forrest is a popular haunt for roadies and MTBers. Depends on what area you live in. Head south to Dorking and there are thousands of country lanes to choose from.