What to expect when you attend a local bike ride session

A local bike ride session is part of The Big Bike Revival, a national programme from Cycling UK that helps adults feel confident, capable and connected through cycling. These short, guided rides are all about practising your skills, meeting friendly people, and getting to know your local area—one pedal at a time. 

When you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by the session organisers—usually a local community group supported by Cycling UK. You’ll be asked to sign in, and the ride leader will have a chat to understand your experience and comfort level before setting off with the group.

There’s no pressure—just a friendly, inclusive space to enjoy the benefits of cycling together. 

• Your bike, in safe working order
• A helmet, if you’d prefer to wear one
• Comfortable clothes and shoes
• A drink or snack for break time
• Any questions about riding, routes, or local cycling

If you’re not sure your bike is ready to ride, ask if a free basic bike repair session is available nearby first. 

Ride sessions take place on:

• Cycle paths and shared-use trails
• Off-road tracks like bridleways or park paths
• Quiet back roads with low traffic

These are short, local rides, and you can go at your own pace. There’s time to stop, take a break, and enjoy a chat. It’s as much about connection and confidence as it is about distance.

Rides usually start and finish at a community hub or meeting point, and everyone finishes together. 

Ride sessions are ideal if you:

• Want to practise your cycling skills  
• Feel nervous cycling alone
• Are looking for a low-pressure way to build fitness or confidence
• Want to explore your local area and learn new routes
• Are interested in meeting others in a supportive, social setting

You don’t need to be a fast or experienced cyclist—these sessions are for everyone. 

On a ride, you’ll pick up useful knowledge like:

• How to ride safely on shared paths or roads
• How to signal, pass people and maintain road position
• Route planning tips and how to explore new areas
• What to pack or carry for short rides
• Confidence cycling in a group

Most importantly, you’ll get to practise real-world riding in a setting that feels encouraging and achievable. 

Since 2015, the Big Bike Revival has helped thousands of people rediscover cycling through friendly, local bike rides. These free sessions are about more than just miles—they’re about building confidence, connection, and a sense of freedom.

Here are just a couple of stories from participants who found community and confidence by simply going for a ride.

I felt a bit nervous the first time but with the support around ... it gave me the encouragement I needed. My confidence has grown, I now know I want to ride more

Linda, The Big Bike Revival participant, Norwich

Find out how a community ride turned Linda’s health journey around.

They cycled by the side of me, encouraging me to carry on. My favourite thing about cycling is that I’m out free and I can feel the wind

Rebecca, The Big Bike Revival participant, Bradford

From childhood rides to inclusive cycling today—Rebecca’s story is one of true determination.

Whether you’re rediscovering your love of cycling or just starting out, local bike ride sessions with The Big Bike Revival are the perfect way to enjoy cycling in good company.

Find your nearest session and start your next cycling journey with us:

1. Search for a grassroots organisation near you.
2. Choose your session
   Click on the organisation’s details to find their website, social media, or email. Check their events schedule and available sessions.
3. Join a session
   You can contact an organisation for an informal chat, drop by to see if it’s right for you, or sign up directly to join a session.