As London bicycle racing increasingly moved to enclosed tracks in the late nineteenth century, Herne Hill became one of the city’s new velodromes. Its first race took place in April 1891. The original circuit measured about 480 metres, and its stands drew spectators to track events over the following decades.
The year 1948 stands out in Herne Hill’s history. Resurfaced after the war, the track hosted cycling events at the London Olympics. Professional racing later declined, while local riders and children made growing use of the venue. That shift kept it part of everyday cycling rather than leaving it only in the sporting record.
The velodrome’s future became uncertain in the mid-2000s, but riders, volunteers and supporters helped secure its renewal. A new surface and improved facilities allow the historic track to serve regular sessions today. Herne Hill shows how sporting heritage stays alive when new riders can still take their place on it.