Often referred to as Boris Bikes, after Boris Johnson (Mayor of London) who was responsible for setting up the scheme, the Barclays Cycle Hire service is now available to everyone. The distinctive bikes are not built for speed but they are a great way to explore London, just remember to bring your own safety equipment.

There are two methods of hiring bicycles:
Those likely to make regular use of the scheme can register on the TfL website, who will then send a key to operate the docking stations in the post.

Casual users will need their Visa or MasterCard credit or debit card to use at a docking station. Follow the simple on screen instructions at the terminal to release a bike. Once you have purchased an access period (for either 24 hours or seven days) the first 30 minutes of any journey will be free of any usage charges.

There is no limit to the number of FREE journeys each day, so if you put your bike into a rack for a few minutes you can then start new 30 minute hire session.

To find out more about payment and availability

Users group information about Apps for your smart phone.

The nearest Barclays Cycle Hire docking station is 150mtrs from the Americana in Park Road. Turn left when you go out of the hotel and take the first left turn into Ivor Place, cross Park Road at the crossing at the end of the Ivor Place and the docking station is on the right.