Cycling fest

London Cycling Festival coming to East London borough for first time

The London Cycling Festival is coming to Barking for the first time in its history on 20 September. 

The event is being organised by Be First, the council’s wholly owned regeneration company, alongside the council and the London Cycling Festival team.

The long running celebration of all things two-wheeled and pedal-powered will give residents the chance to get on their bikes and enjoy some free family-fun. 

From 10am to 2pm in Barking Town Centre there will be activities including: 

  • Bubble bikes 
  • Free ‘Dr Bike’, bike checks 
  • Head-to-head static bike challenge 
  • Have-a-go on a selection of adapted cycles  
  • Residents will also be able to join family friendly led cycle rides, or a guided heritage walk around the town centre.   

This event follows investment into the borough's cycling infrastructure including: 44 easy-to-use secure bike hangars, 7.1km of new and improved cycle lanes across Barking and Dagenham and ongoing support for our popular school and social cycle training programmes. 

Cllr Dominic Twomey, Leader of the Council, said: "This is going to be a lovely day out for everyone attending, with plenty of free things to do for people of all ages. 

"I think it's clear that cycling is growing in Barking and Dagenham and that's something we've worked to achieve.  

"To be welcoming the London Cycling Festival to our borough for the first time is a great honour and my message to residents is clear, get on your bike and join the fun." 

Victoria Spashett, Be First’s Active Travel and Behaviour Change Manager, said “ The London Cycling Festival offers residents the chance to bring out their bikes.

“You can get advice on bike maintenance and how to improve your cycling confidence. Join one of our guided rides and explore the many cycle routes, that help people move about the borough.  

“Shorter journeys around the borough are better by bike, making cycling safer creates healthy routes to work, school and our green spaces, sports, and leisure facilities.”

Tom Fyans, London Cycling Campaign CEO, said: “We’re delighted that Barking & Dagenham council is taking part in the London Cycling Festival this year, along with many other boroughs across the capital. 

“It will be a real treat for Barking residents and show that cycling can be safe and fun for everyone, regardless of age or ability.”