Heaton Park Wanderer

Sky Ride Local in Manchester

A scenic circular 11 mile route mainly on roads in and around Heaton Park. Heaton Park is situated just four miles north of Manchester city centre and is the city's largest green space, with acre upon acre of parkland and woodlands, as well as miles of traffic-free parkland paths and trails, ideal for safe, relaxing riding. The route ventures out of the park's perimeter to take in some quiet suburban roads. There are numerous things to see and do in the park, and a number of cafe stops, for that all important cup of tea and well-earned slice of cake.

If you’re fairly confident on your bike and ready to broaden your cycling horizons, our Steady rides are ideal. At a comfortable pace, and possibly with some modest hills along the way, rides take place on mainly quiet roads with plenty of sights along the way. Rides are between 6 and 20 miles long, at a moderate pace of between 7 and 10 miles an hour.

Additional Information

Helmets must be worn by all under 18's regardless of ride level.
Please bring equipment with you to repair punctures, Ride Leaders are there to help but are not responsible for your bike.
All rides leave at the time stated you must arrive early Ride Leaders will not wait. 

Meet the Ride Leaders

• Mike Bower My love affair with the bicycle started at around the age of eight when I bought my first 2-wheeler from a friend for threepence, however it probably cost my father at least a week’s wages for new components to get it working safely.
  
  During my late teens other issues took over such as work, cars etc. which led to the other things, such as a wife, home and kids.
  
  In my early thirties and with encouragement from my wife to lose a few pounds (stones) my interest towards the bike was rekindled. I began by just doing a few miles locally and eventually took to riding with a club, as I had done in my youth. The wonderful memories of those early years came flooding back.
  
  Riding amongst the thousands of other happy bike riders in the initial Manchester Skyride with my then nine year old granddaughter led to my participation in the Skyride Local events which for me opened up a whole new avenue of extremely enjoyable safely controlled social cycling and the start of many new greatly valued friendships.
  
  Becoming a Skyride Leader has given me the opportunity to welcome and encourage others into the participation and pleasure of safe group cycling, be it a family tootle around the park or a 20 miler through country lanes. It's all great. Please enjoy!
• Anthony Palmer
• Paul Heald Hi, my name is Paul and this is my third year as a Skyride Leader & Route Planner.
  
  I have been a regular participant on the Skyrides for the past 5 years and have thoroughly enjoyed them and met some fantastic new friends along the way.
  
  I look forward to meeting you all on a ride soon!

Rider Comments on the Route

1. veronica proctor Sunday 29th June
   a bit hilly but enjoyed pushing my fitness level. lovely leaders
2. Paul Farrell Tuesday 20th May
   
3. Alan Staton Tuesday 20th May
   
4. Philip Atherton Monday 19th May
   Great ride, great leaders, good mixture of up hills and down.