'Side Quest' sightseeing cycle routes for London

Each curated route around London has a difficulty level and a theme

Themed cycling routes to help people discover parts of London they are less familiar with have been launched by Santander Cycles and Transport for London (TfL).

The Side Quests route generator provides people with randomly selected routes around the capital, each of a different difficulty level and a theme, such as food spots or film locations.

Research commissioned by Santander and TfL found 55% of respondents wanted to explore more of London.

"This scheme helps Londoners and visitors discover hidden parts of the city, stay active and enjoy the summer weather," said Will Norman, walking and cycling commissioner.

To mark the launch, Santander Cycles is offering floating water bikes for one day only on Thursday.

The water bikes, which can seat two people, will be available to use for free in 20 minute slots on the canals in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, from 12:00 BST to 17:00.

David Eddington, head of cycle hire at TfL, said he was "excited to see more Londoners and visitors explore the capital in an affordable way".