Blackpool Weekend (Part One)

Event introduction

This 32 mile event is being led by Rich and suitable for intermediate and advanced cyclists. The event will mostly take place on minor country roads with some sections of busy road. We'll be heading out of Blackpool to the ferry at Fleetwood first - sailings are every 30 minutes and you'll need 50 pence for the crossing with your bike. If you've recently completed a 25 mile bike ride you should you should be able to complete this event.

Want to make a weekend of it? Why not book your own accommodation in the surrounding area on the Friday/Saturday night at a location and budget that suits you. If there is enough interest, we'll try and organise a group evening meal on the Saturday! To book on the 51 mile ride on Sunday 5 September click here.

Please note: All our bike rides are primarily social events, rather than focussed on speed; therefore we always cycle at the pace of the slowest rider. The finish time is  always estimated and could finish later than planned. Please bear this in mind when paying for parking or booking trains etc.  

Route introduction

A map of the route can be viewed at: https://cycle.travel/map/journey/237029

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.

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/ace people. We also welcome allies.

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 and what condition does it need to be in?

This event is suitable for hybrid and road bikes that are in good mechanical order.  Please have your tyres pumped to the correct pressure and with oil on the chain etc. We highly recommend you carry out an 'M Check' before coming on the event to ensure you and your bike will be safe - watch this 4 minute video to see how to do this.

Refreshment breaks

There will be opportunities to stop at shops along the route for snacks/drinks. We may decide to stop at a café/pub/supermarket for lunch so please bring some spare change and a card. Alternatively, feel free to bring your own food if you prefer.

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!

Meeting point description

Meet on the seafront promenade directly in front of Blackpool tower - you can't miss it :-)

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.