Oldham & Ashton Canal Loop

Event introduction

This 18 mile event is being led by Rich and suitable for all cyclists. We'll be riding out of Manchester on the Rochdale Canal plus  quiet roads and paths before making our way back to Manchester via Clayton Vale and the Ashton Canal. The event will mostly take place on quiet roads and canal tow paths.  

Route introduction

A map of the route can be viewed at: https://cycle.travel/map/journey/208952

If you have a GPS device or navigation app on your phone, please feel free to download the route for use on the event. This is optional and not required.

COVID19

We ask that all riders respect social distancing guidelines wherever possible. We encourage riders to bring masks and hand sanitiser, just in case you need them before, during or after the event.

First event?

We know it can be nerve-racking joining a new group or event where you haven’t met anyone before… even for the most confident of people. We’ve all been in the same boat before, so we want to make everyone feel welcome. If you’d appreciate chatting someone before the event or having a buddy to meet you prior to going to the start point, please let us know by sending an email to hello@prideout.co.uk with the subject line ‘request a buddy’.

Pace of the ride

The purpose of the ride is to get some easy exercise at a moderate pace while being able to socialise in a relaxed environment. We will regularly stop to allow people to catch up. We never leave people behind.

Terrain and potential hazards

This bike ride event will be travelling on a mixture of quiet roads, busy roads and cycle paths, but we will try to stick to the roads with least traffic. Hazards you may need to watch out for include bumpy paths in parts and potential broken glass.

What bike should I use?

This event is suitable for a all bikes that are in good mechanical order.  Please have your tyres pumped to the correct pressure and with oil on the chain etc.

Refreshment breaks

Due to COVID 19 restrictions, more than two households are not able to meet indoors, therefore we are not able to eat inside at a pub or cafe. We will stop at a shop for refreshments if people wish. Don’t forget to bring a mask.

Usually we have a drink after the event because is a great social opportunity to chat to people you didn't get a chance to during the bike ride. Unfortunately due to COVID19 restrictions, more than two households are not able to meet indoors or outdoors, therefore this may not be possible at this time.

What else should I bring?

We advise you wear a helmet for your own safety, but it's not compulsory. You should also consider bringing some of the following: spare inner tube and tyre levers, any special tools your bike needs, some food or snacks for energy, bottle(s) attached to your bike and plenty of water, bike lock and glasses can be useful to prevent grit or insects getting in your eyes. Please wear/bring waterproof or warm clothes dependent on the time of year and weather forecast. Bring lights if you are likely to be travelling in the dark or wet weather is forecast. Please have footwear that is appropriate for your bike. Don't forget suncream (if it's summer) - you just never know with the UK weather!

Who's welcome on the event?

In a nutshell, everyone, as long as they are respectul of other attendees. PRiDE OUT is an LGBTQ + cycling group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex and asexual people. We also welcome allies.

Meeting point description

Meet in the centre of Piccadilly Gardens by the grassy area. There is plenty of paid parking nearby or you could also consider free on-road parking 1 mile away at George House Trust, 75-77 Ardwick Green North, Manchester, M12 6FX.

Any finally…

Have fun on the event. We promise to make you feel welcome and we’re sure you will meet some amazing new people. Please try to avoid cancelling at the last minute - it could deny someone else the opportunity to attend the bike ride. If you have any queries or need assistance, please email hello@prideout.co.uk and we will put you in touch with the event leader.