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Getting Started

According to the Bicycle Association there are over 27 million cycles in ownership in the UK. And no wonder when cycling is so easy, cheap, fast, independent, quiet, sustainable, convenient, direct, healthy and fun.

So if you’re just setting out on the cycling path – congratulations!! And if you’re not then hopefully something on this site might help you to change your mind.

On the left hand side of the page you'll find links to a whole range of information to help you get started from finding a local cycling club to details on local training opportunities. Information on local routes, maps and guides can be found in the getting around section.  
 
 

Isn't cycling just for people who can't afford a car?

BeeIn 1994 the AA found that nearly a third of their members were 'cycling motorists' - so using a car for some journeys and a bike for others is perfectly normal.
 
Promoting cycling is not about saying 'the car is bad the cycle is good' - we want to encourage people to think more about the journeys they make and use the right mode instead of just jumping in the car for all journeys. 
In the UK 60% of journeys of only 1 -2 miles are carried out by car. A large majority of these could easily be made by bicycle - you'd save money and you wouldn't need to take a shower afterwards.
 
 

Why don't people cycle more often then?

Peter ArmerA number of barriers to cycling can be identified including infrastructure, lack of adequate facilities (for example at the workplace), a lack of confidence or even a lack of knowledge about local routes and more.
 
As part of the CDT project we aim to identify local barriers and overcome them to lead to a doubling in cycling levels in the area.
  • In the Lancaster District we're continually trying to improve our cycle network. See our coming soon page for information on planned routes. When better, safer and more connected routes for cyclists are put in place, more people feel able to become cyclists. When it becomes noticeable that more people are using the routes this then attracts other people who see how fast the cyclists are getting about.
  • People need to know about our local network. Information on local routes, maps and guides can be found in the getting around section.
  • If you need cycle training at any level - from complete beginner to advanced - then please get in touch.  More information at www.celebratingcyclingorg/training 
     

Need more help?

DannyWant to feel inspired?
Go to our local profiles page to read about local people who use a bike for everyday journeys - such as to work - or just to get around.
 
Please email celebratingcycling@lancaster.gov.uk with any questions about cycling in the Lancaster District. We can help with route advice and maps etc, training, information on local bike sales and hire and much more.
 
Interested in finding out more about cycling?
Go to our links page for a comprehensive list of cycling related websites from mapping sites to campaigning organisations and everything in between.