Late-night London: three routes made for supercars.

When London's traffic subsides and the city shifts into its nocturnal rhythm, certain routes transform entirely. Illuminate landmarks, empty riverside roads, and architectural drama take on new character – especially from the driver's seat of something exceptional.

Here are three late-night London routes designed for supercars, plus what you need to know before setting off.

Route 1: Thames Path East – Docklands to Greenwich

Distance: 12 miles (round trip)
Best time: 11pm–2am (weeknights)
Optimal vehicle: McLaren 720S, Aston Martin DB11, Bentley Continental GT

Start at Limehouse Basin and follow the A1206 East India Dock Road towards Canary Wharf. The glass towers create dramatic reflections when lit – a cinematic backdrop that suits the low-slung silhouette of a modern GT car.

Continue through the Blackwall Tunnel (southbound) towards Greenwich. The A102 opens up briefly before you descend into tree-lined streets around Greenwich Park. Loop back via the foot tunnel viewing point (parking available) for photos with the Thames and Canary Wharf skyline behind you.

Return via the Rotherhithe Tunnel (A101) for variety – narrower, older, more atmospheric. The tunnel acoustics are particularly rewarding in cars with theatrical exhausts.

What to watch for:

• Tunnel height restrictions (both Blackwall and Rotherhithe accommodate standard supercars)
• Weekend nights attract boy racers – weeknights are calmer
• Limited fuel stations after midnight – fill up beforehand

Route 2: Westminster to Kensington – Royal London Loop

Distance: 8 miles (loop)
Best time: Midnight–1am
Optimal vehicle: Rolls-Royce Ghost, Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, Bentley Flying Spur

This route favours stately, elegant vehicles that match the architectural grandeur. Collect your London hire and begin near Parliament Square.

Key waypoints:

• Westminster Bridge – illuminated Parliament and Big Ben (photo stop)
• Victoria Embankment (A3211) – smooth riverside tarmac alongside the Thames
• Northumberland Avenue – wide, tree-lined approach to Trafalgar Square
• The Mall – London's ceremonial boulevard, rarely empty except late at night
• Constitution Hill – approach Buckingham Palace with minimal traffic
• Hyde Park Corner – sweep around Wellington Arch
• Kensington Road (A315) – past Kensington Palace and through to Notting Hill

The entire loop can be completed in 20-30 minutes depending on traffic lights, but it's worth pausing at key landmarks. The Mall, in particular, offers an almost private audience with royal London when deserted.

Considerations:

• Traffic lights are timed for flow – rarely need to stop more than once per junction
• Minimal speed cameras, but enforcement is active
• Park Lane (A4202) offers a faster return route if you prefer motorway-style straights

Route 3: North Circular Sprint – Brent Cross to Barnet

Distance: 16 miles (one way)
Best time: 1am–3am
Optimal vehicle: Ferrari 488 GTB, Lamborghini Huracán, McLaren 720S

For drivers wanting a faster, more visceral experience, the A406 North Circular transforms after 1am. This isn't about landmarks – it's about pace, engine note, and uninterrupted tarmac.

Start at Brent Cross and head east on the A406. The road opens into long, sweeping curves with good sightlines. Traffic thins dramatically after midnight, leaving clean overtaking opportunities and room to experience what your Ferrari or McLaren can deliver.

Exit at the A1 junction and head north towards Barnet for contrast – tree-lined residential roads that feel suburban and calm. The juxtaposition between the North Circular's intensity and Barnet's quietude is part of the route's appeal.

Important notes:

• Average speed cameras operate on sections of the A406 – stay legal
• Road surface quality varies – watch for potholes after Henlys Corner
• Avoid Friday/Saturday nights (boy racer activity increases risk)
• This route demands respect – save spirited driving for clear, safe stretches only

Before you go: night drive essentials

Vehicle familiarity: If this is your first time in a supercar, spend daylight hours familiarising yourself with visibility, seating position, and controls before attempting night drives.

Lighting adjustments: Many supercars feature adaptive LED headlights with multiple modes. Learn how to cycle through settings – urban, motorway, dynamic – before departure.

Fuel planning: Most 24-hour petrol stations are on main roads (A roads, motorways). Supercar fuel consumption increases significantly on spirited drives – plan accordingly.

Navigation: Pre-program routes into your phone or the car's system. Stopping to check maps on dark side streets isn't ideal in a high-value vehicle.

Photography etiquette: If stopping for photos near landmarks, choose well-lit public areas with CCTV. Never leave the car unattended with the engine running.

What makes a good night-drive supercar?

Different vehicles suit different routes. For landmark loops (Route 2), choose something elegant and understated – a Rolls-Royce Ghost or Bentley Flying Spur commands respect without ostentation.

For faster routes (Route 3), you want responsive steering, strong mid-range acceleration, and engaging acoustics. The Ferrari 488 GTB or McLaren 720S excel here – visceral, focused, rewarding.

Read our guide on choosing the right marque for your occasion for deeper insights into vehicle character and suitability.

Safety & legality

These routes are shared for enthusiasts who appreciate London's nocturnal beauty from behind the wheel of something exceptional. They are not invitations to break speed limits, take risks, or disturb residential areas.

Drive within legal limits, respect other road users, and remember that late-night London still has cyclists, pedestrians, and delivery drivers. The goal is immersion and appreciation, not lap times.

After your drive

Return your vehicle in the same pristine condition it was delivered. Our preparation team takes pride in presenting every car immaculately – we ask the same in return.

For those inspired to explore beyond London, our supercar weekend guide covers routes across the UK, from the Cotswolds to the Scottish Highlands.