Edinburgh All-Ability Bike Centre

Cycling UK has loaned its large collection of adaptive cycles to Thistle Foundation, which supports people with disabilities and long-term health conditions. In early 2022 Thistle started running inclusive cycling sessions in two locations in Edinburgh – Saughton Park and Thistle’s Centre of Wellbeing at Craigmillar – with funding support from City of Edinburgh Council.

The sessions build on the success of Cycling UK’s Edinburgh All-ability Bike Centre (ABC) which was operational for six years, until external funding came to an end in May 2021. Since efforts to secure sustainable, continued funding failed, Cycling UK has worked behind the scenes to find a partner and funding source to allow the sessions to run again.

It’s hoped that the sessions will allow former participants of ABC, along with new people, to enjoy all that cycling has to offer, gaining friends and fitness along the way, or just enjoying the experience of pedalling in a pleasant traffic-free location.

Suzanne Forup, head of development Scotland at Cycling UK, said: “We’re delighted to see the cycles back in operation, and we really hope that many of the previous participants, along with some new faces, will be able to come along and benefit.

“We know that cycling has many health benefits in particular and we’re so pleased to be working with Thistle and Edinburgh City Council to make cycling accessible to people who might have thought that cycling wasn’t for them or not possible.”

Sessions take place on Thursday afternoon and Sunday morning at Saughton Park and on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons at Craigmillar. Anyone interested is advised to book in advance on 0131 661 3366 or email [email protected].

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