Women in Tandem are building bikes and connections in Nottingham
The group offers ride-alongs, workshops, how-tos, and more...
When the weather warms up and the leaves are greener, cycling in Nottingham is a lovely idea – and Women in Tandem will help you do just that.
We spoke with women from the group about why it’s important to have accessible biking facilities, as well as about the community and friendships they’ve built up.
If you’re looking for things to do in Nottingham, Women in Tandem hosts ride-alongs around the area, as well as teaches workshops at their Chaucer Street site. For more features and guides, subscribe to The Notts Edit to receive our articles in your inbox for free.
How Women in Tandem are building bikes and connections in Nottingham
By Rose Gill-Muttitt and Maya Sommers
A line of bikes leans against the wall as voices and laughter fill the workshop. Some fix punctures and tighten brakes, while others chat over a cup of tea, admitting that they haven’t ridden in years. But there is no pressure here – just encouragement.
The Women in Tandem group – which have their workshop located on Chaucer Street – aims to make cycling more accessible and enjoyable for women across the city. It does this through a range of workshops and activities aimed at building up bike know-how and community connections.
“It is vital for us to be able to support women and give them freedom through learning to ride,” says Sarah Vernau, co-managing director of Women in Tandem. “Many of our members are from disadvantaged backgrounds, with some out of work and others referred to us for mental health reasons.”
She continues, “We want this to be a safe and welcoming space for any woman.”
For Women in Tandem, this work involves free, relaxed ride-alongs (womenintandem.org.uk) led by qualified leaders and professional mechanics – so no stress about not keeping up or breaking down. There are also plenty of breaks (with snacks!) throughout, so you can truly enjoy cycling leisurely. Think beauty spots like like Colwick Country Park, Bennerley Viaduct, and Lakeside.
There are also maintenance classes such as open workshops and repair how-tos, as well as cycling lessons by those with Bikeability training. Basically, no matter what might be holding you back, Women in Tandem has the stabilisers to support you.
Many people not only enjoy the well-oiled cycling element but also appreciate the connection and support built in, too. “We have a strong community here because so many people enjoy and are interested in what we do,” explains volunteer coordinator Abi Norman. “Volunteers also get a real sense of purpose by helping out, which makes the group feel that much closer.”
If you’re reading this and trying to think of when you last rode a bike, you’re not alone. Linden Dougall joined the group after health concerns made her give up her passion for canoeing. She believed that cycling was the next best thing and, despite not having cycled since she was a child, it has now become a regular part of her routine. “I am learning all the time, especially because I am mixing with people of different ages,” she smiles. “I really enjoy it and feel like I have benefited so much.”
A similar experience is shared by Holly Mitchell, who really loves the social side of the initiative. “It’s great to be able to support and encourage others – I love finding out about other people’s lives and connecting with women I may not have spoken to before,” she says. For many people at Women in Tandem, the friendships formed are what keep them coming back.
Beyond individual experiences, initiatives like Women in Tandem highlight a wider need for accessible and inclusive community spaces. As the cost of transport continues to rise and opportunities for social connection become harder to find, projects that focus on both affordability and a sense of belonging are increasingly important.
Back in the workshop, the conversation continues as bikes are wheeled out and helmets adjusted. For some, it’s just another ride, but for others, it marks a step towards confidence and connection.
At Women in Tandem, the journey doesn’t just begin with the bikes… but with the people who ride them.
womenintandem.org.uk
@women_in_tandem
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