This summer is all about cycling, as the Tour de France returns to the UK for three stages, and cycling fever grips the nation. Now you can do more than just watch the events – be inspired and get involved with Sky Ride Local in Calderdale.
The Tour de France, steeped in tradition and prestige, is one of the most eagerly awaited cycling events on the annual sporting calendar. If Le Tour has inspired you to go for a ride, British Cycling in partnership with Calderdale Council, is running a series of free bike rides to get you pedalling this summer.
Throughout June and July, there are a number of free guided bike rides, taking place in Calderdale, with three different ability levels on offer.
If you’re looking to get into cycling, there’s the ideal introduction on Sunday 29 June at 10am at the People’s Park in Halifax. Not only do you get a free bike check (perfect if you’re dusting off an old bike), but you can also take part in the Peoples Park Pootle, a gentle, 3 mile, easy-going ride – great for those wishing to become more confident on their bikes.
If you’re looking for something slightly more challenging ride, the Calderdale Panorama ride on Sunday 13 July at 10am, is an 8 mile ride around Norland Moor. This ride takes place on mainly quiet roads with plenty of sights along the way.
On the same day, there’s also an Over and under the bridges to Sowerby Bridge and back ride. This takes place from Brighouse at 2pm, and will take in a mostly flat route along the canal to Sowerby Bridge and back.
Later in July there’s the Hebden Bridge to Luddenden Foot Exploration ride. An 8 mile circular route from Hebden Bridge that is mostly off-road, making use of National Cycle Route 66 to Luddenden Foot and returning to Hebden Bridge on the Rochdale Canal.
For the more experience cyclist, there is also a challenging ride in July. Up and Down Dale on Sunday 20 July at 10am, is a 30 mile route with, as the name suggests, a few hills along the way!
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Cllr Steve Sweeney, said:
“The Sky Ride Local bike rides are the perfect way to get involved with Tour de France fever and Yorkshire’s summer of cycling.
“Whether you’re an experienced rider, a beginner or just very out of practice, there’s something for everyone, right across Calderdale. So why not get on your bike, and release your inner cyclist!”
If any of these rides take your interest, why not find out more and book your free place at goskyride.com/Calderdale.