Bike Oxford 2026 has raised more than £40,000 for a record 24 charities after more than 500 cyclists took part in this year’s annual fundraising ride across Oxfordshire.
Powered by Penningtons Manches Cooper, the event brought together riders of all ages and abilities on Sunday 21 June, with participants choosing from a selection of scenic routes while raising money for causes close to their hearts.
Funds were generated through individual donations, sponsored riders supported by friends, family and colleagues, and charity places organised by Iconic Cycling Events, helping participating charities reduce the costs and administration involved in recruiting their own fundraisers.
This year’s title charity partner, Sobell House Hospice, marked its 50th anniversary in 2026 and led the fundraising effort, with Team Sobell raising £18,577 to support hospice care across Oxfordshire. The charity will return as title charity partner when Bike Oxford takes place again on 13 June 2027.
Alongside Sobell House, the event supported charities working across a wide range of causes, including mental health, grief support, cancer research, animal welfare and other community services benefiting people throughout Oxfordshire.
The Bike Oxford weekend also featured a CyclAbility session at Horspath Athletics Track on Friday 19 June, offering cyclists of all abilities the opportunity to ride in an inclusive and supportive environment. The session was attended by Oxford’s Lord Mayor, Chewe Munkonge, highlighting the event’s commitment to making cycling accessible to everyone.
Richard Best, founder of Iconic Cycling Events, said: “Raising more than £40,000 for a record 24 charities is something everyone involved with Bike Oxford can be incredibly proud of. Every rider, volunteer, supporter and sponsor has played a part in helping charities continue their vital work across Oxfordshire.
“Whether someone rode for a loved one, a local charity, or simply to give back, every mile ridden has made a genuine difference.”
Niki Wardell-Yerburgh, Senior Relationships Fundraiser at Sobell House, praised everyone who supported the event.
She said: “A huge congratulations to everyone who took part in Bike Oxford, with an extra special shout-out to our incredible team of 32 riders who absolutely smashed it.
“Together, this incredible group raised £18,577 for Sobell House. Every pound raised will make a real difference to families across Oxfordshire who need the care and support of Sobell House Hospice. To all our riders, supporters and volunteers, simply, thank you.”
Since its launch, Bike Oxford has established itself as one of Oxfordshire’s leading charity cycling events, combining accessible routes with community fundraising and support for local and national charities.
Bike Oxford Champion Cathryn Setz said the event demonstrated the power of cycling to bring people together.
“It was an honour to be involved in Bike Oxford 2026,” she said. “Cycling is for everyone, and events like Bike Oxford show how they can help riders build confidence and achieve goals, while also demonstrating the impact they make for the local community. I’m excited to see what we can do next year.”
Planning is already underway for Bike Oxford 2027, which will take place on Saturday 13 June, with organisers aiming to help even more charities benefit from the event.
