‘My Ride. Our Right’: Cycling UK’s ‘Glow Rides’ Call for Safer Streets for Women

Earlier this year, Cycling UK found that in the UK, over half of women (58%) believe their cycle journeys are limited by safety concerns and a lack of suitable infrastructure.

Women pointed to roads not feeling safe enough to cycle (36%) and a lack of dedicated cycle routes (23%) as significant barriers to cycling. This highlights the unique challenges women face and a real need for safer streets and well-lit routes designed with the experiences of women in mind.

 

 

In light of the findings, the charity launched its campaign, ‘My ride. Our right’ calling for increased investment in cycling and walking routes that consider the experiences of women.

Cycling UK is now coordinating with cycling groups, supporters, activists and communities across the UK to highlight the issue through a series of mass ‘glow rides’. On 22 October 2025, communities will be cycling as part of the campaign My ride. Our right to light up the night and call for safer streets and better cycling infrastructure, especially for women riding after dark.

These ‘glow rides’ show that women across the country are fed up with a lack of safe cycle routes in their areas. Communities have long called for transport choices that not only make the commute to work cheaper, but also connect with schools, local high streets and green spaces.

We all know cycling is an affordable, healthy and sustainable way to get around. It binds us more closely with our communities and gives us more freedom to travel. It’s time to listen to local people and deliver a transport system that works for women and their everyday journeys – Sarah Mitchell, Chief Executive of Cycling UK

The findings revealed how important safe routes are. It can dictate how a woman makes their journeys and the length of time it takes to get to their destination. 45% of women say that a direct cycle route to their nearest town centre or high street would encourage them to cycle, while well over a third (39%) say the same for physically separated cycle lanes.

With over 40 rides already planned, the charity has a regularly updated and simple-to-use map to help people find local glow rides near them. Cycling UK is encouraging communities to bring their bikes, lights and support or to host a glow ride if there’s not one local.

The best cycle network is only as good as its weakest links. Our glow ride will highlight some examples of where things are not so great on our streets and cycleways including dark and secluded routes with only busy road alternatives.

We want cycling to be a practical choice for everyday journeys in Stevenage – as well as leisure rides – for women and everyone else – Jill Borcherds, a ‘glow ride’ organiser in Stevenage

List of confirmed Glow Rides: