Free cycling activities in Birmingham
Welcome to The Big Bike Revival in Birmingham
This page is here to help you understand what The Big Bike Revival is, how it works in Birmingham and how you can get involved. From basic bike fixes to friendly group rides, you’ll find welcoming, beginner-friendly sessions running across the city. No previous experience or special kit needed – just come as you are.
Meet your local Cycling Development Officer
Sally Watson-Jones is your Cycling UK Development Officer in Birmingham. She works alongside communities and local organisations to make cycling more accessible, inclusive and fun.
Sally helps deliver Big Bike Revival events across the region – from puncture repairs and safety checks to learn-to-ride sessions and group rides that build confidence and connection.
If you’re curious about cycling, looking for support, or simply want to find out what’s happening near you, Sally is here to help you get started.
Hello! I’m Sally, and I love cycling in Birmingham – a city full of surprises when you’re on wheels.
You might not expect it, but Birmingham has some of the most scenic and accessible cycle routes in the country. From leafy canals and quiet greenways to more than 590 parks – including beautiful country parks where bikes are welcome – there’s so much to explore. And with more Cycling UK Community Cycle Clubs here than anywhere else in the UK, you’re never far from friendly people to ride with.
The Big Bike Revival helps break down the barriers that stop people cycling – especially if you’re not sure where to ride, don’t have a bike or just need a little confidence boost. Many of our events include learn-to-ride sessions, route discovery rides and even bike loans or safety checks, so you can focus on enjoying the ride.
I’ll never forget hearing about a woman who turned up to an event having never ridden a bike before – and within 15 minutes, she was pedalling on her own for the first time. It’s amazing how quickly people gain confidence and discover how fun cycling can be.
These events are friendly, informal and genuinely uplifting. You’ll explore beautiful parts of the city, meet new people and maybe even surprise yourself with how far you can go – especially when there’s tea and cake involved!
So whether you’re brand new to cycling or looking to fall back in love with your bike, come along. You never know where it might take you – but I promise it’ll be fun.
What’s happening near you
We’re working with friendly local organisations in Birmingham to offer:
Basic bike repair sessions
- Get a quick repair, puncture fix or safety check by an experienced mechanic – free of charge. Perfect if your bike needs a little TLC.
- Learn what to expect at a free basic bike repair session.
Learn basic bike maintenance
- Want to learn how to fix a puncture or adjust your brakes? Our friendly basic bike maintenance sessions give you the hands-on skills to keep your bike running smoothly.
- Learn what to expect at a learn basic bike maintenance session.
Learn-to-ride sessions
- Whether you’ve never cycled before or want to brush up your skills after time away, we’ll help you build confidence at your own pace.
- Learn what to expect at a learn-to-ride session.
Join a local group ride
- Explore local parks, cycle paths and quiet roads with experienced ride leaders. Go at your own pace, meet friendly people and build confidence on the move.
- Learn what to expect at a local group ride session.
This video gives you a quick taster of what to expect at a Big Bike Revival session. For more details, just click the links above.
Who it’s for
These sessions are open to adults aged 18+, especially if:
- You’re new to cycling
- Haven’t ridden in years
- Don’t feel confident cycling alone
- Your bike needs a check-up or fix
- You want to cycle more for health, fun or everyday journeys
No special clothes, experience or equipment needed – just turn up and we’ll support you.
What people say
Since 2015, thousands of people across Birmingham have benefited from The Big Bike Revival. Here are just a few stories from people whose lives have been changed through cycling.
Martin: From homelessness to hope through cycling
Martin Williams from Birmingham was facing some of the toughest challenges life can throw at you. He was homeless, battling addiction and struggling with anxiety and depression. But things began to change when he discovered The Big Bike Revival through New Roots, a local recovery group.
After attempting to take his own life in 2017, Martin turned to New Roots for support. There, he was introduced to cycling – and everything started to shift. He learned basic bike mechanics and rediscovered the simple joy of riding.
I feel like I’m being given another reason to avoid drugs as I’m working hard at something positive
Cycling gave Martin a renewed sense of purpose. He began volunteering, fixing up bikes and supporting others on their recovery journeys. The work brought him structure, connection and confidence.
I enjoy seeing the looks on people’s faces when we give them a bike they can use. I like to think I’m helping others improve their lives too
Martin now dreams of starting his own business and is passionate about giving back. He credits cycling with helping him rebuild his life – and look forward to the future.
Sukhi: From 12 to 260 rides a year
Sukhi didn’t own a bike and hadn’t ridden for years. She wasn’t sure where to cycle safely and lacked confidence in her ability. That changed when she discovered Big Bike Revival sessions run by Handsworth & Hamstead Pavilion’s Community Cycle Club.
With encouragement from instructor Sam Sahdra, Sukhi learned to cycle all over again.
Sam was brilliant. I thoroughly enjoy cycling with her – she even helped me find my own bike
Since then, cycling has become a big part of her life.
I lost weight, and cycling also helped me through a stressful time personally
Keen to stay independent, Sukhi also learned basic maintenance skills. Now Sukhi cycles regularly, feels more confident and is a proud example of how small steps can lead to big change.
Ready to take part?
Browse free sessions, meet your local cycling group and discover how The Big Bike Revival can help you get pedalling again – with confidence.
Have questions? Contact Sally Watson-Jones – she will be happy to help you.
It’s completely normal to feel daunted about turning up somewhere new – especially if you’re not sure what to expect. Try looking up the event location on Google Maps and checking out the website or social media of the group running the session. You can also give them a call or drop them an email – they’ll be happy to answer questions and help you feel more at ease before you arrive
