During the Olympics London went cycle-crazy, probably because we were winning quite a bit. Now the famous Pringle shaped venue is open to the public, and there’s plenty to encourage them to get back on their bikes.
The Lee Valley Velopark is unique in bringing together four Olympic cycling disciplines in one place. As well as the track cycling facilities inside the temperature controlled velodrome the BMX track outside has been remodelled and now features 390m of bumps, curves and jumps. A looping, one-mile floodlit road cycle circuit has been created and there are five miles of brand new mountain biking tracks.
The velo park, which is located at the northern end of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park’s north-east concourse, offers a wide programme of events, from classes for first-time riders to major world championships. Some sessions need to be booked but the centre also offers pay-and-ride slots for cyclists who just want to turn up and have a go.