Durham County Council is celebrating Bike Month this May, working alongside national cycling platform Love to Ride and a range of local partners to encourage residents of all ages and abilities to enjoy the benefits of cycling. Through Love to Ride, participants can log their rides, take part in workplace and community challenges, and be rewarded for every journey, whether it’s a short trip to the shops or a longer leisure ride. Sign up to Love2Ride here: Home: Love to Ride
The Active Travel Team & partner organisations have pulled together an exciting programme that offers a packed calendar of free rides, workshops, festivals, and inclusive cycling opportunities designed to make cycling accessible, fun, and welcoming for everyone.
Public Events –
Breeze Rides for Women and Children
Breeze is part of British Cycling’s programme for women and children. These friendly, guided rides take place at least once a month across County Durham, ranging from 5 to 35 miles. Bike Month Breeze Rides include:
- Easy Breezy to the Craft Fair
Saturday 2 May, 10.00am
Starting from Shincliffe lay‑by below Betty Bees, DH1 2PF
Booking required: Let's Ride - Easy Breezy to the Craft Fair
- The Best Little Bridge to Bishop
Monday 4 May, 10.00am
Starting from the Bishop–Brandon Railway Line above Meadowfield Sports Centre, DH7 8RS
Booking required: Let's Ride - The best little Bridge to Bishop
Women’s Only Bike Maintenance Session
Wednesday 6 May, 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Recyke Y’ Bike, Chester‑le‑Street
A free bike maintenance workshop designed by women, for women. Led by female mechanics, the session covers essential bike checks and basic repairs, from carrying out an M‑check to adjusting gears. Sessions are shaped around what participants want to learn. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own bikes.
Please book here & feel free to bring your bike along!
Family Dr Bike sessions
Families are invited to take advantage of a free Dr Bike session, offering a basic bike health check. Mechanics will inspect brakes and gears, carry out minor adjustments where possible, and advise on any additional repairs that may be needed.
Chester-Le-Street Family Dr Bike Session
Tuesday 12 May, 12.00–3.00pm
Recyke Y’ Bike, Chester‑le‑Street
Please book here
Horden Family Dr Bike session
Wednesday 13 May 11.30am-2.30pm
Horden Welfare Park
Please book here
Gateway Wheelers – Accessible Cycling
Various dates in May
Rectory Park, Houghton
Gateway Wheelers provides opportunities for people with disabilities to enjoy cycling in a safe, supportive environment. Accessible cycling sessions will take place throughout May on the traffic‑free track at Houghton, with specialist equipment and support available.
Book here: here
Durham City Bike Festival
Sunday 31 May, 11.00am–4.00pm
County Hall Car Park, Durham
Bike Month culminates in the Durham City Bike Festival, a free, family‑friendly celebration of cycling. The event is organised by the Durham Bicycle Mayor, for more information follow Durham Bicycle Mayor on Facebook