If you’re looking for something free to do with the kids, two popular cycling days are coming back to Wigan this year.
Cycle Three Sisters will be held at the Three Sisters Circuit in Ashton-in-Makerfield on Wednesday 6 May and Tuesday 4 August 2026, bringing a full afternoon and evening where families can turn up, get on a bike and enjoy the track together.
It’s something that usually brings around a thousand people along each time. In May, lots of families call in after school, while the August date often ends up being part of people’s summer holiday plans.
The idea is pretty simple. Turn up, grab a bike if you need one, and have a ride around the circuit.
If you don’t have your own bike, that’s absolutely fine. There will be bikes available to borrow on the day, including balance bikes for younger children and adapted cycles so people with different disabilities can join in too. There will also be cycle skills sessions for kids who are still learning or building confidence.
Younger riders get the first go on the track. From 1.30pm it will be open just for balance bikes, bikes with stabilisers and adapted bikes, giving little ones a quieter session where they can ride alongside an adult.
From 3pm the full circuit opens up for standard bikes. Balance bikes and stabilisers aren’t allowed on the main track after that, but there will still be dedicated areas where younger children can keep riding safely until things wrap up at 8pm.
It’s not just about the cycling either. Around the venue there will be other things to try including a climbing wall, archery, giant bubbles and community stalls, so there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. Plus, if your bike needs a quick check over, the team from the Gearing Up Cycle Workshop will also be there offering free maintenance and minor repairs.
Councillor Chris Ready, Wigan Council’s cabinet portfolio holder for communities and neighbourhoods, said: “We know how much residents love Cycle Three Sisters so we’re really excited to announce the event’s return for 2026.
“It’s always fantastic to see so many families having fun cycling together, and so many kids learning to ride and growing their confidence on two wheels.
“But the best thing about Cycle Three Sisters, apart from it being completely free, is that it’s truly inclusive, with bikes and helmets available to borrow for free and Wheels For All adapted cycles so everyone has the chance to get involved.
“It truly is an unmissable occasion, so make sure to save the date and come along for a ‘wheely’ good time!”
The cycling days are organised by Wigan Council’s Be Well team, which runs activities across the borough to help people get active.
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