Free cycling activities in Lancashire
Welcome to The Big Bike Revival in Lancashire
This page shows you how The Big Bike Revival works in Lancashire and how to get involved. Whether you’re dusting off a cycle or trying it for the first time, you’ll find friendly, beginner-ready activities near you. No special kit or experience needed – just bring yourself and give it a go.
Meet your local Cycling Development Officer
Laura Howarth is your local Cycling Development Officer (CDO), supporting people and communities across Lancashire to get cycling. She helps deliver Big Bike Revival events in the area – from quick safety checks and bike repairs to learn-to-ride support and sociable led rides.
Whether you’re starting from scratch, getting back in the saddle, or just have a question about cycling in Lancashire, Laura is here to help. Reach out to get connected, get support – and get cycling.
Hello! I’m Laura, and I love cycling in Lancashire. Each borough has its own character: from canal towpaths and leafy parks to bustling town centres. But the thing that truly makes Lancashire special is the people.
Wherever I go, I see communities coming together to make cycling theirs: it’s social, friendly and a great way to be outdoors, meet new people and boost both physical and mental wellbeing.
As Cycling UK’s Development Officer for the county, I work with brilliant local partners – charities, social enterprises and cycling clubs – to help more people discover that cycling is for everyone.
A lot of the barriers I hear are about perception: “cycling isn’t for me,” “it’s not safe,” “it’s expensive,” or “it’s only for athletes”. Through The Big Bike Revival, we break those barriers down with welcoming sessions, access to bikes and helmets, and simple, practical support so people can just have a go.
One moment that’s stayed with me happened at a basic bike repair session in Accrington. A gentleman called Michael relied on his cycle to get to work. After a free safety check and fix, he was so relieved he was moved to tears – he couldn’t believe the service was free, and it genuinely made a difference to his life.
It’s a reminder that The Big Bike Revival is about far more than bikes; it’s about opportunity, confidence and connection.
Our events are friendly, inclusive and designed around you – whether you want peace of mind with a quick check, to build skills and confidence, or to join a relaxed ride and meet new friends.
If you’re thinking about giving it a try, come along. We’ll help you get started – and enjoy the ride.
What’s happening near you
We’re working with friendly local organisations across Lancashire 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.
Watch The Big Bike Revival in action
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 is it 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.
Who’s running events in your area?
These free adult cycling sessions in Lancashire wouldn’t be possible without the brilliant local organisations we partner with to deliver The Big Bike Revival – passionate teams who go the extra mile to help their communities get cycling.
Click on the contact details below to find out when your next session is happening.
Meet Big Bike Revival partner S.A.S Rights CIC
Meet Saima Afzal, founding director of S.A.S. Rights in Blackburn. In this video, she shares how their women-led group uses Big Bike Revival support to build skills, confidence and community – through learn-to-ride, gentle group rides, and a welcoming wellbeing hub.
Where are Big Bike Revival events happening in Lancashire?
Use the map below to see where free adult cycling sessions are taking place across Lancashire.
Click on a location to view contact details and find out when the next session is happening.
What people say
Since 2015, thousands of people across Lancashire have benefited from The Big Bike Revival. Here are inspiring stories of how cycling has made a difference.
Bibiane: Finding healing through cycling
After losing her husband of 46 years, Bibiane Turner, 70, from Preston, struggled with loneliness and lost confidence. Encouraged by her daughter, she tried cycling – first on her late husband’s bike – and found community with Preston Pedals.
Through Big Bike Revival sessions and supportive group rides, Bibiane rebuilt skills, friendships and confidence. She now rides for work, shopping and leisure – and her journey earned her Cycling UK’s Real Yellow Jersey for inspiring others to discover the life-changing benefits of cycling.
Hamida: Building a cycling sisterhood from the ground up
What began as a ‘soft activism’ group ride to challenge taboos became a movement. With S.A.S. Rights in Blackburn and support from The Big Bike Revival, Hamida got back on a bike as an adult – finding new confidence, friendships and a welcoming community of women riding together every week.
Today she helps empower Muslim women to cycle proudly, building skills, wellbeing and social connection across communities. For her inspiring leadership, Hamida was named a Cycling UK Real Yellow Jersey winner – proof that everyday riders can spark 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 – with confidence.
Have questions? Contact Laura at [email protected] – she will be happy to help you.
If you’re nervous about coming along, bring a friend or family member. And if you arrive on your own, you won’t be the only one. The Big Bike Revival is designed for beginners, so you’ll be among people just like you
