Community cycle Sundays to bring free family fun and nature activities to Ashton

Families across Tameside are being encouraged to get active and embrace the outdoors with the launch of Community Cycle Sundays in Ashton.

Starting on Sunday 17 August and running through to October, the free events will take place on Rayner Lane, offering a mix of cycle training, bike repairs, and nature-themed activities aimed at all ages and experience levels.

Delivered by Active Tameside’s qualified Bikeability instructors, the sessions provide a chance for both beginners and confident cyclists to improve their skills in a safe and supportive environment. In addition, Manchester Bike Kitchen will be on hand to carry out free bike repairs, helping to keep local families pedalling throughout the autumn.

Beyond cycling, the events will include a range of engaging outdoor activities such as bulb planting, crafting, and potting plants to take home—encouraging a deeper connection with nature and the local environment.

The initiative also marks the celebration of the newly launched Rayner Lane walking and cycling scheme. Funded by Transport for Greater Manchester, the scheme has been commissioned by Tameside Council and delivered by Groundwork Greater Manchester as part of a wider effort to promote sustainable transport and healthy living across the borough.

Community Cycle Sundays will run from 9.30am to 10.30am on the following dates:

• Sunday 17 August
• Sunday 28 September
• Sunday 26 October

Participants are asked to meet at the junction of Heron Drive and Rayner Lane. Where possible, attendees are encouraged to walk, cycle or use public transport to help reduce traffic. Limited parking is available at Ashton Moss Park and Ride.

Cllr Tafheen Sharif, Tameside Council Executive Member for Population Health and Wellbeing, said: “Community Cycle Sundays are a fantastic opportunity for families to come together, get active, and fall in love with the outdoors. It’s more than just cycling, it’s about building confidence, discovering new skills, and creating joyful, healthy memories in the heart of our community. We’re proud to support an initiative that brings people closer to nature, promotes active travel, and makes wellbeing fun and accessible for everyone.”

Attendees should head to the junction of Heron Drive and Rayner Lane in Ashton. The precise location can also be found using What3words: ///payer.rugs.curiosity.

For more information, contact lucy.rodgers@groundwork.org.uk or call 07814 066148.