London’s roads can feel intimidating for cyclists – a maze of busy junctions, narrow lanes, and the constant presence of larger vehicles. But one man decided enough was enough, embarking on a personal mission to reclaim the city’s streets for those on two wheels.
Aydin Crouch, a 34-year-old heritage consultant, began his project five years ago after his flatmates confessed their fear of cycling in the capital. Unable to find a suitable map focused on safety, he took matters into his own hands, determined to chart a course towards more confident journeys.
What started as a few familiar routes quickly blossomed into a comprehensive map, painstakingly built over 3,000 hours. Aydin combined on-the-road exploration with data from Google Maps and insights from fellow cycling enthusiasts, creating a resource unlike any other.
The resulting map, known as SafeCycleLDN, isn’t just another collection of cycle paths. It’s a detailed guide to navigating London with a focus on security and peace of mind. Thick blue lines denote fully protected cycle lanes, while thinner blue lines highlight quieter backstreets. Orange indicates shared paths with pedestrians, and green marks park routes – noting those closed at night.
Beyond the color-coding, the map also identifies Low-Traffic Neighbourhoods, routes currently under construction, and those still in the planning stages. It offers a complete overview of London’s cycling infrastructure, far exceeding the scope of existing resources.
Aydin’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. The London Cycling Campaign, a leading advocate for safer cycling, has officially endorsed SafeCycleLDN, recognizing its immense value to both seasoned cyclists and those just starting out.
“It’s a hugely useful resource,” says Simon Munk, head of campaigns and community development at the London Cycling Campaign. “It’s brilliant he’s continued to develop the mapping… The SafeCycleLDN map means you can see clearly which boroughs are delivering a safe cycling network.”
Despite ongoing investment in cycling infrastructure, London’s roads remain a source of concern. In 2024 alone, nearly 1,000 cyclists suffered serious injuries, and nine lost their lives. An additional 3,800 experienced less severe injuries while navigating the city.
Aydin points to the inconsistency of existing routes as a key issue. “You might have a protected cycle route for part of the journey then suddenly you are left on your own,” he explains. “It’s nowhere near as dangerous as junctions. That’s where most accidents happen.”
The impact of SafeCycleLDN is already being felt. Aydin has received countless messages from new cyclists who found the courage to get on the road thanks to his color-coded routes. Experienced riders are also using the map to discover safe passages in unfamiliar areas.
With over 1.3 million views since 2021 – and nearly a million in the past year alone – the map’s popularity is undeniable. Aydin’s ultimate hope is to see his data integrated into popular navigation apps, making safe cycling even more accessible for everyone in London.
His work is a testament to the power of individual initiative, transforming a personal concern into a valuable resource for the entire city. It’s a story of reclaiming urban spaces, one safe route at a time.
