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Date: 12 June 2026
Cycling enthusiasts took to the streets of Belfast this morning as Ride On Belfast made its return to the city as part of the year’s Bike Week programme.
Funded by Belfast City Council and organised by Cycul, the event brings people together in a fun and inclusive way, while highlighting how active travel is helping to create a healthier, greener and more connected Belfast.
Cyclist of all levels came together for a community ride from Queen’s University through the city, finishing at City Hall.
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Róis-Máire Donnelly, was at City Hall this morning to welcome cyclists.
“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 said.
“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. 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.
“Agus muid ag súil chun tosaigh leis an Fhleadh, agus aon chuairteoirí eile atá ag teacht chugainn – is maith an rud go bhfuil an rogha ann agus gur féidir leo taisteal thart fán chathair ar a suaimhneas féin.
“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, one of the organisers of today’s event, said: “We’re delighted to bring Ride On Belfast back to City Hall today.
“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.
“We hope this persuades not only more people to embrace the simplicity of cycling to work, but also persuades politicians and transport planners to make this an everyday experience – not just one day in the year.”
Ride On Belfast is among a wide range of events and initiatives delivered by Belfast City Council to boost participation in cycling and support more walking and cycling across the city.
The Bolder Vision for Belfast strategy, developed with the Department for Communities and the Department for Infrastructure, is prioritising walking, cycling and public transport in the city centre to create more space for people and better connect with local communities.
For more on the council’s support for active travel, visit belfastcity.gov.uk/activetravel
