Why we can peddle as fast as Hackney
Whodafunk it? Kentish Town is one of the most cycle-friendly parts of London for commuters, nearly akin to two-wheeled hipster paradises like Stoke Newington, Dalston and Herne Hill. At least, according to an “infographic” from Rentonomy, anyway.
Writes David Butler, who created it: “The most common area for cycling commuters is Dalston where 12% of all commuters cycle into work. Others in the top five are Stoke Newington (10%), Highbury (9%), Clapton (9%) and Herne Hill (8%), according to the 2011 census. These areas are all linked by virtue of being close to the centre of London, and having a large young working population.”
Yet, arguably more interesting (at least to us), is the fact that Kentish Town is the only place in our part of north London with a healthy over 5%+ cycling populace – a pleasurably pale blue island in the purple ocean, if you like. See for yourselves by looking closely above.
So why do you think this is? Our plethora of excellent bike shops? A pivotal location? Answers on a postcard…or add your thoughts below.
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2 thoughts on “Pinboard: Any news on the Bull & Gate? And how Kentish Town squares up to Hackney”
RE: the cycling
Proximity to Regents Park, being at the foot of the north london alps (Swaine’s lane, highgate hill etc etc), some of the best independent bike shops in London (Simpsons, Chamberlain, Lunar), home of Rapha (high end bike fashion and sponsors to TDF winners Team Sky), a police officer who cycles (Peter Ryan) – need I continue? Yet yet, we lack a cycling club for those with aspirations to ride a bit faster and further. A gospel oak cycling club is trying to be formed, so if that can be plugged that would be good!
Never thought I’d say this but I hope the Bull and gate gets converted into flats, a better end then becoming just another gastro.