Richmond’s first Cargo Bike Fair draws community and pedals a message of change

Richmond’s first-ever Cargo Bike Fair drew crowds to Old Deer Park on Sunday 15 June, with a festival atmosphere and a clear message: cycling can be fun, family-friendly – and practical.

The event, organised by Richmond Council, aimed to introduce more people to the growing cargo bike movement. Highlights included test rides of a variety of cargo bike models provided by local retailers, children’s cycle confidence sessions, and a high-energy cargo bike procession through the borough – led by councillors, local families, and representatives from the Mayor’s charity Small Steps.

Councillor Alexander Ehmann, Chair of Richmond Council’s Transport and Air Quality Services Committee, said:

“The turnout has been incredible. We’re seeing growing appetite for greener ways to get around, and cargo bikes are a real alternative to the car – especially for families and small businesses. As a Council, we’re working hard to make cycling easier, safer and more accessible across the borough so we can make Richmond upon Thames the cargo bike capital of London.”

In total, 20 bikes were sold on the day, 75 residents enquired about Richmond’s Try Before You Bike Scheme, and more than 60 children took part in cycling skills sessions. Bike maintenance and road safety experts provided advice and services, and the Fair’s relaxed, family feel made it as enjoyable as it was informative.

A panel discussion on the ‘cargo bike movement’ was chaired by Council Leader Cllr Gareth Roberts and featured London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner Will Norman, Cllr Ehmann and Solve the School Run co-founder Nicola Pastore. Hosted from a specially converted cargo bike stage, the conversation explored how cargo bikes are transforming everyday travel across London – from school runs to local deliveries.

Will Norman praised Richmond’s approach:

“I’d like every borough to be talking about cargo bikes the way Richmond is. They’re good for business, health, the environment – and they’re fun. A fun borough is a good borough,” he said.

The Fair also included live music from youth music charity The Basement Door, tennis taster sessions, health checks from the Health Bus, and free bike servicing from Dr Bike.

Find out more about cargo bikes in Richmond upon Thames.