Queen and Princess Pedal Power (Royal Parks for Beginners)

Join Paul for this sociable leisure cycle around Manchester.

The ride is perfect if you are new to cycling or haven't ridden for a while. Or if you're an experienced cyclist in the mood for something a little more gentle, this is the ride for you too.

The regal theme to our ride starts as we head south east from the city centre into Victoria Park. Locals will of course know that Victoria Park isn't actually a park. Bearing the name of our second-longest reigning monarch Queen Victoria, this green suburb of Manchester is renowned for it's historical significance and diverse community. We'll pass several historic listed buildings including the Plymouth Grove Hotel, Elizabeth Gaskell's House and Victoria Baths.

We'll then use the Fallowfield Loop (former disused railway line) to head over to Alexandra Park, one of Manchester's earliest and most complete Victorian parks. The park was named in honour of Princess Alexandra of Denmark, the wife of Prince Albert Edward, who later became King Edward VII.  Originally known as "The People's Park", Alexandra Park opened in 1870, inspired by the belief that access to nature and open spaces was vital for the physical and mental health of Manchester's residents. 

We'll have the option of stopping to relax for a bit at Coffee Cranks Cafe in the park's pavilion, before the relatively short ride back to our start point.

Not got a bike, no problem. Hire bikes are available from multiple locations around the city, including several that are close to our start point. Make sure to download the cycle hire app beforehand, and allow enough time in case you need to try more than one location to find an available bike. The ride is less than 10 miles and will take 60 to 90 minutes to complete at a gentle pace. Based on this timing, hiring a bike should cost no more than £5.00 (or £10.00 for an e-bike). We would recommend purchasing a bundle of time in advance as this will be cheaper than the pay as you go option (especially if hiring an e-bike). Don't forget you will still need to bring a helmet as Outdoorlads requires you to wear one. 

Pace and Terrain

This will be a leisurely cycle suitable for all levels of fitness. We will try to keep moving, but there are plenty of natural breaks which will give you the chance for a breather. The route is flat all the way round and the terrain is level so it will be fine for all bike types. 

If you're not a regular cyclist, please do make sure your bike is in good condition - check the tyres are well inflated, chain is oiled, and you've got a spare inner tube, drinks and snacks with you. 

Keep in Touch

If you'd like to hear about our cycling events as soon as they are published, then subscribe to our Social Media & Instant Messenger channels. 

Facebook, Telegram, Twitter

You can chat with our members on Facebook and Telegram, and join our Strava club
 

IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement

You MUST complete the Cycling Participation Statement in addition to booking your event space before attending a cycling event.