The third national Cathedrals Cycle Relay (CCR) is about to launch on 24 May 2025 from Bradford Cathedral, coinciding with Bradford’s 12 months because the UK City of Culture.
This 12 months’s relay marks a return to the national stage after two years of regional events, inviting cyclists of all skill levels to affix in a number of segments of the two,000-mile journey.
Over the course of 42 days, participants will cycle between all 42 Church of England cathedrals, carrying a symbolic baton from one to the subsequent. The route will conclude back in Bradford on 5 July.
The event will officially begin with a launch celebration at 10:30am on 24 May at Bradford Cathedral. Local cyclists and community groups are encouraged to enroll via Eventbrite to take part in this or other legs.
While participation is free, those that donate £10 or more will receive a commemorative relay medal.
The launch ceremony will likely be joined by Dr Shaun Cutler, creator of the route, the Very Revd Andy Bowerman, Dean and Bishop of Bradford, and Dan Bates of the Bradford 2025 team.
Dr Cutler emphasised the spirit behind the relay: “The Cathedrals Cycle Route welcomes everyone! Born out of the challenges of Covid, the CCR was created to foster connection and promote a way of togetherness, embracing all backgrounds and beliefs.
“Now five years for the reason that outbreak, the importance of unity is stronger than ever. We’re excited for our 2025 relay to play a task in Bradford’s City of Culture and in bringing us together, celebrating the fantastic thing about England’s 42 cathedrals and the colourful communities that surround them. Join us on this inspiring journey!”
A surprise celebrity guest can also be expected to affix the festivities, which is able to include musical performances by Pilgrim cellist Kenneth Wilson, who may even hold a donations-based concert on the Cathedral at 3pm the day before.
Wilson will accompany the relay, offering musical performances at cathedrals throughout the route.
At around 11:30am on 24 May, cyclists will set off from Bradford Cathedral, making their strategy to Wakefield Cathedral with a stop at Dewsbury Minster along the route.The specially designed baton, currently on display at Bradford Cathedral, will likely be passed from one cathedral to the subsequent throughout the six-week journey.
Anne Locke from the Association of English Cathedrals shared her experience participating in a previous relay: “I remember thoroughly the enjoyment of participating myself in the primary cycle relay in 2021, and I’m delighted that our cathedrals will likely be welcoming the baton again this 12 months. The Cathedrals Cycle Route has created a beautiful opportunity to explore these marvellous buildings and communities in an enjoyable and sustainable way.”
