Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Why Mind The Gap?
This phrase was first used in 1968 on the London Underground. Mind The Gap Tours are proud of our London heritage. We chose this iconic phrase as it is strongly associated with London and is a quintessential sound of the city. - What’s included in the price?
Included in the ticket is return train transport from London Waterloo, an experienced guide, one-way bicycle hire form Richmond to Hampton Court, and entry into Hampton Court Palace - What is not included?
Food, drink and miscellaneous expenses for the day. - Where do we meet?
The trip meets at London Waterloo under the big clock, opposite platform 12 at 09:15. - Do we go inside the Palace?
Entry is included into Hampton Court Palace. We pass lots of great sights en route, which we will stop at to hear the history and intrigue, but we will not enter any minor attractions due to time restrictions. - Can we bring our own bikes?
Yes, but please contact us first to let us know! - What language is spoken?
All tours are conducted in English. Foreign language tours are available on request. - How big are your groups?
Maximum 12 people. - Are they guaranteed to depart?
Yes, no matter how big or small the group and no matter what the weather. - Do I need to reserve a place in advance?
Yes. The small groups and unique itineraries mean you must reserve online. - Am I fit enough?
Probably yes. The route covers 7 miles on a flat traffic-free route. We allow around 2 hours to cover this distance with regular stops. Anyone who can ride a bike should have no problem. - Am I too tall?
Anyone under 7 foot should find our bikes comfy enough, even if not the perfect fit. The ride is so leisurely, you should have no worries. - Am I too short?
We suggest that that you are over 5 foot tall to fit comfortably on our bikes. - Are the trips suitable for children?
At this stage we only accommodate children on request. Please email us with your enquiry. - Can we book a private group?
Yes. Please see more info on our private groups page. - Do you have any age limits?
It is more to with attitude than age. However, our bikes generally suit children over the age of 12. If they can ride a 17 inch frame bike comfortably then no worries. - What if it rains?
Come rain or shine, we still run the trips. London is technically drier than Rome or Jerusalem so you should be pleasantly surprised. We also carry ponchos that are available to buy if we caught out by the odd shower. - What is your cancellation policy?
We offer a full refund or change of date outside 72 hours. Inside 72 hours 100% cancellation charges apply. We will try to accommodate date changes where possible, but this will be subject to availability. - What if I am late?
Aggghhh! Please arrive in good time to meet your guide, or you risk us leaving without you. In emergencies ring our mobile on +44(0)7768310005 and we will try to arrange for you to catch up with us. - Do we have to wear helmets?
No, there is no law requiring the use of helmets but they are available if you wish at no extra charge. - What if I get a puncture?
Your guide is fully equipped to have you up and running in no time. - Do we have to join the trip in central London?
We prefer to keep the group together from the start, but it is possible to join the trip at Richmond. Please email us to make these arrangements. - Can We spend more time in Hampton Court Palace?
Certainly! The guide is available to escort the group to the train station at the end of the day, but you are more than welcome to make your own way back. Your guide will give you directions on the day. - Can we spend an extra night in Hampton Court?
Of course. Hampton Court has plenty more to offer the over night visitor. We have a selection of handpicked accommodations we can recommend to suit every taste and budget. Please email us for further details. - Can I return to London by boat?
Yes, you can indeed often return all the way to Richmond or Westminster by boat. The boat is very comfy, and has a fully licensed bar. The perfect way to spend a lazy summer evening. Please note this is an extra on-the-day upgrade available to book via your guide, and is subject to seasonal availability and tide times. - Do you arrange airport transfers?
Our trips are perfect for people arriving or leaving from Heathrow. If you would like us to arrange a transfer then please email us with your flight number and other requirements. - Can I bring my luggage?
If you can carry your luggage from the meeting point and on to our cycle starting point via the train, then we are happy to keep the luggage for you and bring it to the finish point. Please note items will be left at the owner’s risk. - Do we have to tip the guide?
If you feel your guide has done a sterling job, then a small tip is always appreciated. If you feel a simple “Thanks” or “high-five” is suitable than that is great too. - Can we just hire the bikes?
Unfortunately no, as our bikes are reserved for our full day trip packages. - I can’t ride a bike, can I still come?
If you have a friend or partner who does not cycle, then we can give you advice on how to travel from central London and meet up with us so you can enjoy the main attraction together. - Can I work for Mind the Gap Tours?
We are always on the lookout for fun loving, knowledgeable Londoners with a genuine passion for excellent customer service. Please send us your CV, and we will give you a call to chat about any opportunities.
“Get a bicycle. You will not regret it if you live.”
Mark Twain