London Nocturne moves to new course for tenth anniversary

The London Nocturne is moving from its Smithfield Market home to a new course around the City of London for the tenth anniversary of the night time Criterium.

The event, on 4 June, will see anyone from professional cyclists to participants atop Penny Farthings and Bromptons race around the new, bigger 1.5km circuit, with St Paul’s Cathedral as a backdrop for the start and finish line.

New races for 2016 include the Track Bike Criterium, and the Concours d’Elegance, which organisers describe as “a celebration of style and considerate cycling with prizes going to the most elegant riders”.

James Pope, CEO of Face Partnership, organisers of the London Nocturne said: “We are excited to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the London Nocturne by moving to a bigger circuit in the heart of the City. The new location will enable the event to continue to grow and accommodate more spectators, participants and attractions to make the event better than ever.”

The new course will feature a technical section around the far side from the start/finish, around Guildhall, potentially throwing a spanner in the works for sprint finishes. Organisers say the new course will be more easily accessible by rail and tube, as well as easier for spectators to move around the course. For participants a new and improved rider paddock is in the offing, too.

The event is free to attend, and a public grandstand will be available for a limited number of spectators, along with a big screen and children’s activity area.

Last year the elite men’s race was won by Ed Clancy, and the elite women’s race by Katie Archibald, who lapped the field.

For more information visit the London Nocturne website.