We kicked off this year’s accessible cycling sessions with three great sessions in Gloucester, Swindon and the Forest of Dean. Designed to offer a supportive and enjoyable reintroduction to cycling, the sessions give people living with MS the chance to try adapted bikes, enjoy time outdoors, and connect with others in a relaxed and supportive setting.
Kicking things off in Gloucester
Our first session took place on Tuesday 24th March at Blackbridge Athletics Track in Gloucester.
Working alongside Goals Beyond Grass, we were able to offer a wide range of adapted bikes, giving participants the chance to find something that worked for them. From recumbent trikes and e-bikes to side-by-side cycles, there was plenty to try.
The athletics track provided a safe and accessible space for everyone to ride at their own pace, with support always on hand. For some, it was their first time back on a bike in years which is a really great reminder of how great these sessions can be in helping people rebuild confidence and rediscover the joy of cycling.
After the session, we had lunch and some really great conversations. These moments to connect, share experiences, and simply spend time together are a huge part of what makes these sessions so special. Despite the cold and rainy weather, it was a really great day.
Next up: Swindon
Just two days later, on Thursday 26th March, we headed to the Moredon Sporting Hub in Swindon for our second session.
The session followed a similar format, offering a variety of adapted bikes and a welcoming environment for riders of all abilities. The smooth, traffic-free setting allowed participants to build confidence at their own pace. With plenty of bike types to choose from, people were able to test what felt most comfortable and discover new ways of enjoying cycling in a safe and supportive environment. Even our placement students, Ava and Aimee, joined in, trying out bikes they’d never ridden before.
Our Latest Accessible Cycling Session in the Forest of Dean
Our most recent session took place in the Forest of Dean in April, and it couldn’t have been a better day for it. The sunshine was out and there was a great turnout.
The Forest of Dean is a beautiful place to cycle around with quiet paths winding through the trees and leading down to a gorgeous lake. There was a great selection of bikes provided by Goals Beyond Grass which meant even our placement students Ava, Aimee and Niamh got to have a ride around the forest. Everyone was able to cycle along at their own pace and try a range of different bikes to see what suited them the best.
After the session, everyone gathered at the cafe for coffee, cake, and a really lovely social. It was a great opportunity to get to know each other better, and hear a little more about everyone’s story.
Why These Sessions Matter
For many people living with MS, staying active can come with challenges. Whether that’s accessibility, confidence, or simply finding the right environment. These sessions are designed to remove those barriers.
They’re not about distance or performance. They’re about giving people the opportunity to try something new, enjoy being outdoors, and reconnect with the feeling of being on a bike.
Just as importantly, they’re about community. Bringing people together, sharing experiences, and creating a space where everyone feels welcome.
Looking Ahead to our next Accessible Cycling sessions.
These sessions in mark the start of what promises to be another exciting year of accessible cycling. With more sessions planned across the spring and summer, we’re looking forward to reaching even more people and continuing to grow this programme.
A huge thank you to the National Lottery and Sport England for the funding. Without this, these sessions wouldn’t be possible. Thank you to everyone who came along to take part, we can’t wait to see you at the next one.
Sign up to our upcoming sessions:
Odd Down Sport Pavilion, Chelwood Drive, Bath, BA2 2PR
- Monday 11th May – 11:00 – 12:30
- Thursday 25th June – 11:00 – 12:00
Forest of Dean Cycle Centre, Cannop Valley, New Road, Coleford, GL16 7EH
- Tuesday 20th May – 13:30-14:30
Moredon Sporting Hub, Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon, SN2 2QJ
- Wednesday 20th May – 13:00 – 14:00
- Tuesday 2nd June – 11:00 – 12:00
Pavilion on the park, 1 Kingfisher Road, Eastleigh, SO50 9LH
- Thursday 28th May – 13:00 – 14:00
- Tuesday 13th June – 13:00 – 14:00
