On 1 July 2021, cyclists from Hereford Cathedral took part in a nationwide relay ride on a new cycle route linking every Church of England cathedral. The route launched on 30 May 2021 to coincide with the start of Bike Week, the annual celebration of cycling delivered by Cycling UK.

CCR cyclists arriving at the Elgar Statue on 1 July 2021

Members of the community rode between Hereford and Worcester, passing on a specially commissioned baton to the next group of riders in a unique event to launch the new 2,000-mile loop, which links all 42 English Cathedrals to promote greener travel and mental and physical wellbeing.

Each cathedral has a dedicated cycle champion to improve the cycle-readiness of its building, ensure a warm welcome for visiting cyclists and increase the number that currently arrive on two wheels.

At Hereford our Cathedral Cycle Champion is Canon Graham Bennett.

Click here to find out more about this route: cyclinguk.org/cathedrals-cycle-route-challenge  

The Cathedrals Cycle Route is a unique partnership between the Association of English Cathedrals, the British Pilgrimage Trust, Cycling UK and Sustrans. It measures 2,000 miles in total, with individual legs between cathedrals varying in length to suit all abilities. It is the invention of academic, entrepreneur and keen cyclist Shaun Cutler, from Northumbria University, and is designed to help us all out of lockdown with opportunities for short cycle rides between cathedrals, new partnerships and fundraising for activities to support physical and mental wellbeing.

Shaun said: “The Cathedrals Cycle Route is about connecting our historic cathedrals and enjoying the spaces between them. 

“Now more than ever, after a year of living with the coronavirus pandemic, this is a way to support people’s mental and physical health and promote the mission of England’s cathedrals through pilgrimage, wellbeing and heritage.”

It is hoped that the relay ride will become an annual event but in the meantime we are welcoming cyclists who are riding the route. If we know you are coming one of our cyclists may be able to meet you on the outskirts of Hereford and lead you to the Cathedral. If you would like to be met, please inform the Cathedral Office via [email protected] in advance.

The Cathedral has 4 cycle racks which are in the car park near the entrance to the cloisters. Alternatively there is a large number of racks outside the city library which is at the West End of the Cathedral in Broad Street. Should it be needed there is a pump available in the vestry and you will receive a warm welcome in the Café. Pilgrim passports can be stamped at the welcome desk or in the shop.