Thursday 23rd June to 3rd July sees Bowland's first cycling festival, and an exciting programme of events to celebrate all that is special about cycling in this beautiful area.
Whether you're new to cycling or regularly tackle one of Bowland's iconic climbs, enjoy pedalling under your own steam, or welcome a more leisurely e-bike ride - there will be something for everyone!
Organiser Phil Wade from Breaking Cycles CIC said: "The Bowland Cycling Festival is a collection of small events run by local cycling enthusiasts, community organisations and businesses who share a passion for cycling in the Forest of Bowland. It is our intention, over time, to develop and grow these events to showcase all that the area has to offer as a cycling destination and celebrate some of the amazing things that already happen here". He adds: "Cyclists in the Forest of Bowland tend to keep themselves to themselves, quietly enjoying living and riding in one of the most beautiful and engaging landscapes in the UK. When it comes to describing the Forest of Bowland as a destination, it is often referred to as a ‘hidden gem’ or one of the ‘best kept secrets".
All the events this year – apart from the Clarion House musical performance - will start in Clitheroe. The festival launches with the Wheelie Good Exhibition, organised by Gosha Gibek at Clitheroe Castle Museum, which is running from Saturday 18th June to 30th September.
The exhibition is a visual celebration of cycling in the Forest of Bowland. Have a look at the exhibited artworks, meet the artists and engage with workshops and events from the gallery. Claire Sutton, Manager at Clitheroe Castle Museum said: "We are delighted to be involved in the festival. The exhibition celebrates the joys of cycling past and present and is wonderful blend of contemporary fine art from thirteen local artists. Also on display are selected images and objects from the museum collection that provide a glimpse into the history of cycling and local cycling clubs. Objects include the Clarion Cup and a velocipede. The exhibition is free to visit in the Steward's Gallery and runs up to the 30 September."
Clitheroe is a hub for fantastic eateries and the all-important refreshment stop. Head to Clitheroe market Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday for some wonderful café stops with the barista-style cafe Horse Box serving breakfast and lunch using locally sourced produce, or Blueberries café and the Secret Garden café with useful outside space for securing bikes. If you fancy a more pub-like atmosphere, enjoy the outdoor space at the café and bar at Holme's Mill or explore the town for a whole array of pubs, restaurants, and cafes. Or if you want to make a break of it visit www.discoverbowland.uk for a round-up of local accommodation.
Below is the full programme of events, but for full details visit the Festival Facebook page: www.facebook.com/BowlandCF/
Events
Saturday 18th June – 30th September - Wheelie Good Exhibition: Gosha Gibek, Clitheroe Castle Museum
The Wheelie Good Exhibition is a visual celebration of cycling in the Forest of Bowland. Have a look at the exhibited artworks, meet the artists and engage with workshops and events from the gallery.
Thursday 23rd June (12:00) - Sharing the Road: Fagan & Whalley, Ribble Valley e-bikes, Breaking Cycles CIC
‘Hills’ and ‘Traffic’ are the two most stated reason to not cycle in the Forest of Bowland. This event showcases the techniques and technology that can overcome both. Have a look at the technology fitted to Fagan & Whalley’s trucks, which help drivers to see us and experience the support of an e-bike!
Friday 24th June (19:30) - Ride Pendle with Breaking Cycles CIC
Join Phil, from Breaking Cycles CIC for a guided ride on country lanes and bridleways around Pendle Hill. As the sun is setting, we will be returning to the centre of Clitheroe, where opportunities to ‘refuel’ will be plentiful if needed!
Saturday 25th June (08:00) - The Green Jersey: Challenge Rides
Join the Green Jersey Cycling Club for a challenge ride of your choosing. Ride any, or all, of the three ‘Grimpeur’ routes to conquer some of the most notorious local climbs or head off for an adventure ride on your Gravel Bike.
Saturday 25th June (10:00) - Beginners & Improvers led ride: Breaking Cycles CIC
Join Breaking Cycles CIC for a gentle paced, social group ride from Clitheroe. This will be led by qualified cycling instructors who can provide tips and advice to support your progression.
Saturday 25th June (11:00 – 15:00) Dr Bike
Call in to see Dr Bike at Clitheroe Castle - free advice and guidance on bike maintenance/repair from a qualified cycle mechanic
Saturday 25th June (14:00) - Pedal Pilgrimage with Revd. Andrew Froud
Join Revd. Andrew Froud on a scenic guided ride between Ribble Valley Churches and Whalley Abbey.
Sunday 26th June (11:00) - Wheely Good Exhibition: Meet the Artists
An opportunity to meet the people behind the artwork on display. There will also be an opportunity to have a go at using Gosha Gibek’s Gloss Drip technique!
Sunday 26th June (13:00) - Jack Young at Clarion House
Classical Pianist, Jack Young will be performing a combination of classical pieces and his own improvisations from the Clarion House Garden.
Wednesday 29th June (18:15) - NLRC evening 10s: Newcomers Night
The evening 10 is a great starting point for many a racing cyclist. Newcomers Night is a supportive opportunity for riders who have never raced before to come along and have a go.
Saturday 2nd July (14:00) - Wheely Good Exhibition: Bike Bites
We all like to talk about our bikes and our adventures. Bike Bites is a collection of short talks, sharing passion for cycling from different perspectives.
Sunday 3rd July (06:00) - Bowland Audax: Saddleworth Clarion
This 200KM Audax ride begins at Denshaw and brings cyclists through some of our finest roads, scenery, and cafes!
Notes to Editors:
For press enquiries, please contact Phil Wade, Breaking Cycles CIC: breakingcyclescic@gmail.com, Tel: 07746 272643
Bowland Cycling Festival is a celebration of cycling in the Forest of Bowland. It is the first year that the festival has run, and it is hoped that the festival will grow in subsequent years.
It is organised by local cycling enthusiasts, supported by private businesses and public sector organisations on a not-for-profit basis.