More than 70 riders lit up Oxford on Wednesday 22nd October for a women-led, all-welcome Glow Ride, stringing bikes with fairy lights, glow sticks and even a disco ball on a relaxed 7-mile loop to highlight women’s safety when cycling at night.
The ride was organised by Cycling UK and the Cowley Road Condors, as part of Cycling UK’s nationwide My ride. Our right campaign calling for safer routes and fewer barriers to cycling for women. The Oxford ride set off from Manzil Way, looping Donnington Bridge → Hinksey → city centre before returning.
“The Condors are proud to be part of the Cycling UK Glow Ride,” said Ruth Prior, Women’s Officer for the Cowley Road Condors. “Over 70 cyclists were able to highlight the need for safer streets and cycle routes in Oxford, the cycling city. We rang our bells, shone bright, and hopefully raised some awareness as we could not be missed!”
Riders came from across the city’s cycling community, with groups including City Angels, Joyriders, Isis Cyclists, RunTribe Oxford and Cyclox. Walton Street Cycles provided mechanical support at the start. Ages ranged from five to 80; one participant rode from Aylesbury and back (about 50 miles) in the rain. “That was a really enjoyable evening,” said Graham Bonner, 66. “It was nice to see so many happy and enthusiastic people.”
The Oxford event was one of dozens of glow rides nationwide on 22 October, coordinated by Cycling UK to “light up the night” and press for safer, better-lit routes designed with women’s experiences in mind.
“Oxford’s ‘cycling city’ boast is made real with events like this,” said Peter Fifield, President of the Condors. “When groups unite leisure riders, commuters and utility cyclists, more people ride—and that makes for a safer, friendlier city for women riders.”
At a glance
- When: Wed 22 Oct 2025, evening
- Where: Start/finish Manzil Way, OX4; 7-mile loop via Donnington Bridge, Hinksey & the city centre
- Who: Women-led; open to all ages and genders (women, trans and non-binary riders, and male allies)
- Part of: My ride. Our right mass glow rides (Cycling UK)
Why it matters
Cycling UK’s campaign spotlights persistent safety concerns that deter many women from riding after dark and calls for safer infrastructure, better lighting and fewer barriers on everyday routes.
Get involved
- Cowley Road Condors — inclusive club rides and a free test ride: cowleyroadcondors.cc/your-first-ride/
- Cycling UK: My ride. Our right — join future glow rides, resources & ways to contact representatives.
- Campaign video: My ride. Our right | Women deserve the freedom to move (YouTube)
