Swift Awareness Ride: Wings Over North Manchester

Join us for a guided cycling tour through Manchester, honoring the incredible journey of Swifts—birds that travel over 6,000 miles from sub-Saharan Africa to the UK each spring. These remarkable creatures spend most of their lives in flight, only landing to nest and raise their young. However, their numbers have declined by over 60% since 1995, primarily due to habitat loss and reduced insect populations.
Starting at the Bike Library at GROWE in Failsworth, we’ll explore green corridors and community Swift hotspots.
The 15-mile route includes Brookdale Park, Clayton Vale, Sunny Bank Vale, and the Hollinwood Branch Canal, winding through Daisy Nook, Woodhouses, and the nature-filled paths of Moston Vale and Moston Brook.
The ride features mostly paved surfaces and includes some segments where cycling is not permitted, requiring brief dismounts. Expect a mix of cycleways, streets, and natural paths, with an elevation gain of approximately 500 feet .​
Experience the thrill of cycling while learning about the Swifts' lifecycle, their importance to our ecosystem, and how you can contribute to their conservation. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a nature enthusiast, this ride offers a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife and community initiatives.​

This ride is brought to you in collaboration with the RSPB Swift City Project and Manchester University ambassadors team
@RSPBManchester @RSPB Greater Manchester

Ride to celebrate Swifts’ epic journey & raise awareness of their decline. Join us to visit Swift spots across Manchester this June!

The ride features mostly paved surfaces and includes some segments where cycling is not permitted, requiring brief dismounts. Expect a mix of cycleways, streets, and natural paths, with an elevation gain of approximately 500 feet .​

Please, bring water to stay hydrated and clear/sun glasses to protect eyes from insects, lock and cash/card for the cafe stop.

We never leave anyone behind