London Shared Bikes
Four active bike-share schemes serve London in 2026 — one TfL-run docked classic, two dockless e-bike fleets, and a folding-bike network for rail commuters. Together they put around 55,000 bikes within walking distance of most Londoners.
All four schemes
Santander Cycles
Docked (TfL)
TfL's official scheme — known as 'Boris Bikes'. 800+ docking stations.
Lime
Dockless e-bike
London's largest dockless fleet across 25 boroughs. Bay-parking required.
Forest
Dockless e-bike
London-grown, 100% renewable, carbon-neutral. 16-borough coverage.
Brompton Bike Hire
Docked folding bike
Quality folding bikes from secure docks at rail/Tube stations. Fold-and-board friendly.
Which should I use?
- Tourist exploring Zone 1? Santander Cycles — £3 buys 24h of unlimited 30-min rides between landmarks.
- Outer-London commute? Lime — widest coverage across 25 boroughs.
- Short central hops? Forest — first 10 minutes are free.
- Rail commuter? Brompton Bike Hire — fold and board any TfL service at any time.
FAQs
What shared-bike schemes operate in London?
Four active schemes in 2026: Santander Cycles (TfL's docked roadsters and e-bikes), Lime (dockless e-bikes, largest fleet), Forest (dockless e-bikes with 10 free minutes), and Brompton Bike Hire (folding bikes from station docks). Earlier operators Dott, Tier and Voi have withdrawn from London.
Which London bike-share scheme is cheapest?
Forest is cheapest for short trips (first 10 minutes free). Santander Cycles is cheapest for multiple 30-minute hops (£3 for unlimited 24-hour access). Lime and Brompton suit longer single journeys.
Do I need a helmet for London bike share?
Helmets aren't legally required in the UK or provided by any scheme. TfL strongly recommends one. Bring your own or buy a foldable helmet for trips.
Can I take a shared bike on the Tube?
Only folded Brompton bikes are allowed at all times. Santander, Lime and Forest bikes are not allowed on the Underground, DLR or most Overground peak services.
Where can I park dockless bikes?
Lime and Forest now require parking in designated bays in most central London boroughs. The apps show nearby bays — finishing outside one incurs fines of £2–£100.