Manchester Tweed Ride: snappy dressing and summer cycling

Written by Emily Oldfield
Last updated 7 years ago
Fashion & Beauty, Health & Wellbeing, Lifestyle

Love vintage clothes? Love old bikes? Good, because The Tweed Ride is back in town again on Saturday July 2nd – which means picnics, pints and pottering about in some of the city’s favourite places. Starting from the Town Hall at 1pm, you can cycle with the group to Platt Fields where there will be a picnic and tour of the Costume Museum. I say!

It’s a minimum-exertion, maximum-elegance event and takes place four times a year. Just bring your bike for a unique summer day out celebrating the good old British tradition of dressing up and going out for a ride.

Expect everything from elbow patches and handlebar moustaches to waistcoats and wicker baskets. See how vintage you can get but don’t worry if you haven’t got a wardrobe full of vintage at home – it’s more about embracing the past and enjoying the occasion. Tweed is encouraged but not essential, but you’ll definitely need a bike. If you haven’t got a retro bike just decorate it (flowers and ribbons go down well) and enjoy.

“It’s very much a fun thing for me and I love to dress up,” says Linda Orritt. “We biked through the centre of Manchester down Deansgate last time. All the tourists were taking videos and photos of us. I enjoyed the day immensely. It’s a good way to meet up with like minded people, too.”

The Tweed Ride has a history in Manchester with participants traditionally posing for pictures on the steps of the Town Hall before heading off on a different route every year. Previous rides have included a picnic in Heaton Park, an amble through Ancoats and a trundle through Chorlton. There are always plenty of pit stops along the way and a chance for a bite and a pint – or even a Pimm’s if you want to add to the mood!

‘There is a big vintage scene in Mancland,” says Kieran Evans, “and about 30% of us are not regular cyclists,” – confirmation that you don’t need to worry about getting worn out in your woollens! It’s just a gentle jaunt and chance to take in the city in a new way!

The event is part of a bigger Tweed Ride movement. To take part in this retro revolution follow them @TweedRideUK

Did we miss something? Let us know: [email protected]

Want to be the first to receive all the latest news stories, what’s on and events from the heart of Manchester? Sign up here.

For the love of Manchester...

Manchester is a successful city, but there are many people that suffer. The I Love MCR Foundation helps raise vital funds to help improve the lives and prospects of people and communities across Greater Manchester – and we can’t do it without your help. So please donate or fundraise what you can because investing in your local community to help it thrive can be a massively rewarding experience. Thank you in advance!