Belfast Cycles Forward: Ride On Event Promotes Healthier, Greener City

On 12 June 2026, Belfast's streets were alive with cycling enthusiasts as the much-loved Ride On Belfast event made its return to the city. As a key part of this year’s Bike Week programme, the initiative, funded and organised by Cycul, aimed to bring people together in a fun and inclusive way. It championed active travel as a vital step towards creating a healthier, greener, and more connected Belfast for everyone.

Cyclists of all abilities joined a fantastic community ride, starting from Queen’s University and winding its way through the city, culminating at the iconic City Hall. Welcoming the participants, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly, praised the turnout. "It’s fantastic to see so many people choosing to leave the car at home today and choose cycling as an alternative to their daily commute," she commented.

The Lord Mayor highlighted the broader impact of the event. "This is a great opportunity to encourage more people to experience the benefits of cycling, whether for everyday journeys, leisure, or simply exploring the city," she said. "Events like Ride On Belfast showcase how cycling can contribute to a healthier, greener, and more connected Belfast, and highlights just how easy it is to travel around our city on two wheels." She also delivered a warm welcome in Irish, emphasising Belfast's suitability for cycling. "Belfast is perfectly suited to cycling. As a compact city that’s easy to navigate on foot or by bike. And, as we prepare to welcome thousands of visitors for the upcoming Fleadh, we will be encouraging people to consider cycling as a convenient way to travel around the city, so they travel at their own pace and help keep the city moving."

Stephen McNally from Cycul, a key organiser of the day’s activities, expressed his delight. "We’re delighted to bring Ride On Belfast back to City Hall today," he said. "Today is the one day in the year when people can experience what it’s like cycling to work in a city where cycling is given priority. Not only is it fun, but it’s an effective, efficient, and healthy way of travelling in the city." Mr. McNally voiced a hope that the event would inspire more people to embrace cycling for their daily commutes, and also persuade local politicians and transport planners to make such a priority an everyday reality, not just an annual occasion.

Ride On Belfast is just one of many events and initiatives boosting cycling participation and supporting walking and cycling across our city. These efforts align with the Bolder Vision for Belfast strategy, developed in partnership with the Department for Communities and the Department for Infrastructure. This strategy prioritises active travel and public transport in the city centre, aiming to create more people-friendly spaces and better connect our diverse local communities. The success of Ride On Belfast clearly shows our city's readiness to embrace a healthier, greener future on two wheels.