The annual Chesterfield Festival of Cycling is set to take place in the town this June.

Cycle Chesterfield, a local community group dedicated to promoting cycling in Chesterfield is gearing up for the event. It aims to showcase the cycle infrastructure in and around town, promote cycling as an alternative means of transport and build links across our communities.

This year’s festival runs from the 7th – 16th of June and offers a diverse range of activities designed to cater to people of all abilities and ages. From guided rides at a steady, inclusive pace exploring the town’s hidden gems to interesting talks by cycle adventurers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the festival’s highlights is the Holmebrook Valley Park Cycle Funday, where families can enjoy a day of outdoor activities and games. This event not only fosters a sense of community but also encourages residents to embrace cycling as a fun and accessible recreational activity.

There will be a variety of themed, free, guided recreational rides which will demonstrate some of the cycling infrastructure in Chesterfield and the wider area, including the brand-new section of the East/West route. Rides will generally start in the town centre and will head out in a range of directions, including rides taking in Grassmoor, Holymoorside and Hollingwood. The rides will proceed at a steady, inclusive pace.

In addition to rides, the festival will be hosting a talk by author, adventurer and cyclist Emily Chappell. Emily was the first woman to finish the Transcontinental Race in 2016, has cycled across Asia from Turkey to China and has authored two books about her exploits.

Moreover, the festival serves as a platform to showcase Chesterfield’s cycling culture. From taster sessions for adapted bikes for disabled adults to BMXers showcasing their skills at Ringwood Park to an exploration of some of the town’s public art on the Art Trail ride, the festival celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of the local cycling community.

Cycle Chesterfield has been a driving force behind numerous initiatives aimed at improving cycling infrastructure and awareness in the area. Through lobbying efforts and community outreach programs, the group continues to push for safer streets and better cycling amenities, not only improving the quality of life for residents but also contributing to a greener, more resilient future for our community.

You can find out more about the festival and cycle chesterfield online: Facebook – CycleFestChesterfield & CycleChesterfield or via the website – https://cyclechesterfield.org/

Find out more about cycling in Chesterfield here, and to discover great events taking place in our area, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/events/