The popular Ford RideLondon HUB at Trafalgar Square will again host bike-centred entertainment, displays and activities over the 2024 Ford RideLondon weekend of cycling (Friday 24 to Sunday 26 May).
The HUB was created in 2023 and proved a huge success at last year's Ford RideLondon, with thousands enjoying the range of activities and spectacles on offer.
Created by Ford RideLondon in partnership with Greater London Authority (GLA) and Westminster City Council (WCC), the HUB aims to promote active travel in London by creating opportunities to enjoy cycling and learn more about bikes. As part of this, Ford’s Park the Car initiative is being highlighted, which encourages people to walk or cycle rather than drive short journeys wherever possible.
London Walking and Cycling Commissioner, Will Norman, said: "Making it easier for Londoners to choose more sustainable modes of transport lies at the heart of the Mayor's vision for a greener London for all. We're delighted that the Ford RideLondon HUB will once again be stationed in Trafalgar Square this year, offering a range of cycling-related activities. Join us to enjoy the excitement of FreeCycle and witness the thrilling Classique race winding through the heart of London's streets."
Hugh Brasher, Event Director of London Marathon Events, said: “The Ford RideLondon HUB at Trafalgar Square was a resounding success in 2023 and we are delighted one of London’s most iconic locations will again host numerous exciting cycling themed activations and opportunities which can inspire people of all ages to ride their bike. Across Ford RideLondon weekend, the HUB promises to be the heartbeat of the world’s greatest festival of cycling.”
Lisa Brankin, Ford Britain & Ireland chair and Managing Director said: “The Ford RideLondon HUB is a must-visit attraction for cyclists and spectators alike. The Ford stand in the HUB will bring to life our ‘Park the Car’ message, encouraging drivers to consider cycling or walking for short journeys. In addition, our Go Electric team will be on hand to explain how easy it is to make the switch from petrol to electric. So please come along and visit us in Trafalgar Square.”
The HUB is the focal point of the world's greatest festival of cycling and is open throughout the weekend for participants and spectators of Ford RideLondon-Essex or Ford RideLondon FreeCycle, as well as passersby. This is a unique opportunity to enjoy the variety of free entertainment and get involved in exciting bike-related activities.
This year, the HUB will feature skills demonstrations via a BMX and Slopestyle show and The Extreme Mountain Bike Show with UCI Junior World Champion, Oli Weightman. London-based artists, musicians, choirs and DJs and street performers will also offer entertainment throughout the three days alongside food and drink stalls and give-it-a-go activities.
A giant screen will show live coverage of every stage of the Ford RideLondon Classique, the three-day UCI Women’s WorldTour race that is part of the Ford RideLondon weekend. This year, a live host will commentate on the action in what promises to be a thrilling weekend of professional racing.
For those inspired by the Ford RideLondon Classique and the HUB activities, the Met Police will be on site to promote cycle-specific road safety and bike mechanics will also be available to help everyone feel more confident on their bikes.
For more information on the Ford RideLondon HUB at Trafalgar Square, including opening times, click here.
Ford RideLondon is the world’s greatest festival of cycling and includes a series of events. It begins with the Ford RideLondon Classique, which features the world’s best female riders racing two stages in Essex on Friday 24 May and Saturday 25 May before a finale in central London on Sunday 26 May.
There are four mass participation events taking place on Sunday 26 May: the Ford RideLondon-Essex 100, 60 and 30-mile rides and Ford RideLondon FreeCycle, which is an opportunity for riders of all ages and abilities to explore some of London’s most famous landmarks on traffic-free roads.
As well as the HUB, two Festival Zones will be available to enjoy on the Ford RideLondon FreeCycle route, at St Paul’s Churchyard and Aldwych/The Strand. Doubling up as rest stops, the Zones offer bike maintenance support, and there will be street performers, face painting, catering concessions and inclusive open cycle sessions.