Does anyone here cycle through the Rotherhithe tunnel?

helz

I'm going to be cycling from Limehouse to Surrey Quays tonight and Rotherhithe tunnel looks like by far the quickest route. I know cycling is allowed there, but is it a good idea?

dang65

helz wrote:

I'm going to be cycling from Limehouse to Surrey Quays tonight and Rotherhithe tunnel looks like by far the quickest route. I know cycling is allowed there, but is it a good idea?

As far as I know it has very big signs at the entrance saying no cyclists. And it looks absolutely horrible anyway, no to mention dangerous. There's a quite pleasant riverside/backstreets cycle route which starts from a side turning just before the entrance to the tunnel. Only been that way once though, so can't give more details or alternatives. Others will.

Bassjunkieuk

I have been through their both ways once and as long as you don't mind breathing in exhaust fumes for a few minutes you should be OK. I managed to get on the path at the side on the northbound journey but couldn't see a convenient place to get on the southbound side so had to ride in the carriageway!!

For that journey tho it does appear to be the easiest way across without using some sorta boat!

dang65

I think I've got mixed up with the Limehouse Link. Sorry!

spen666

dang65 wrote:

I think I've got mixed up with the Limehouse Link. Sorry!

You had me puzzled until I saw this.

I know you can cycle in the Rotherhithe tunnel and was wondering how you'd cross the river on the route you suggested- all is clear now

helz

Bassjunkieuk wrote:

I have been through their both ways once and as long as you don't mind breathing in exhaust fumes for a few minutes you should be OK. I managed to get on the path at the side on the northbound journey but couldn't see a convenient place to get on the southbound side so had to ride in the carriageway!!

For that journey tho it does appear to be the easiest way across without using some sorta boat!

Hmm... I don't fancy having to ride in the carriageway and causing a big tailback... maybe I'll just have to cyle back to Tower Bridge. I wish that tunnel was more cycle friendly, or they'd put a bridge there!

Bassjunkieuk

helz wrote:

Bassjunkieuk wrote:

I have been through their both ways once and as long as you don't mind breathing in exhaust fumes for a few minutes you should be OK. I managed to get on the path at the side on the northbound journey but couldn't see a convenient place to get on the southbound side so had to ride in the carriageway!!

For that journey tho it does appear to be the easiest way across without using some sorta boat!

Hmm... I don't fancy having to ride in the carriageway and causing a big tailback... maybe I'll just have to cyle back to Tower Bridge. I wish that tunnel was more cycle friendly, or they'd put a bridge there!

I think the supposed speed limit in the tunnel is 20MPH, so on the first half your OK as it's a slight downhill followed by a slight climb once you pass the midway point! I was very concious of causing a hold up on my southbound trip!

As for going via Tower Bridge the route there is quite pleasant, as you can use the infamous Cable Street cycle path to get to the northside! I've never had many problems along it but I've seen many post's on here about rubbish on the cycle paths and peds not look where their going!

saveswalking

As for going via Tower Bridge the route there is quite pleasant, as you can use the infamous Cable Street cycle path to get to the northside! I've never had many problems along it but I've seen many post's on here about rubbish on the cycle paths and peds not look where their going![/quote]

or go east from Limehouse (Narrow Street) under Canary Wharf and over the Isle of Dogs to the foot tunnel at Island Gardens (lifts shut a 7pm). The tunnel will take you out on the south side of the river at Greenwich (Cutty Sark). Head up Creek Road - Evelyn Street into Surrey Docks.

sw

helz

Good suggestions, thank you! ... Or maybe I'll go down to Canary Wharf then take the boat to Surrey Quays (we're allowed to take bikes on Thames Clippers). Decisions decisions...