The hidden cycle shop where you can hire bikes and explore south Manchester

Summer, when the weather allows, is the perfect time for heading outside and exploring the beautiful green spaces we have on our doorstep. One of the best ways to see them is by hopping on a bike and gliding through fields, past woodland and alongside waterways. Tucked away in south Manchester is a sprawling network of cycle trails, leading you to scenic spots including Sale Water Park and Chorlton Ees Nature Reserve.

The best part? Even if you don’t have your own set of wheels, there’s a cycle hire shop nearby where you can pick up a bike and embark on your own Tour de Manchester. Velo Times is a tiny bike repair and hire shop tucked away at the end of Rifle Road on the bank of the River Mersey, just five minute’s walk from Sale Water Park tram stop. It occupies a couple of large sheds in the grounds of Jackson’s Boat pub.

Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features. With scribbled graffitied notes from previous happy customers adorning the walls and rows of bikes propped up against the fence, it’s a place with a friendly and rustic feel to it. It’s a casual set up; you can either call up in advance to book, or just turn up and try your luck.

You’ll be given an appropriate bike and there’s an option of having a helmet, should you choose. You don’t have to pay until you return – in case the experience isn’t what you thought it would be – but chances are you’ll love it. Velo Times has several routes it recommends (Image: MEN Staff) Velo Times has a selection of route suggestions on its website, so you can plan in advance if you want.

They range from beginner-friendly 2-3 mile circular routes along the River Mersey and around Chorlton Ees, to more challenging options heading out to Dunham Massey. But for those who would rather wing it, the team at Velo Times will happily advise you on where to go, and one of the most straightforward options is following the paths beside the River Mersey. Take a right hand turn at Jackson’s Boat footbridge and the trail will lead you east towards Chorlton Water Park, where you can turn off and do a circuit of the lake – and there’s a playground here for kids too.

You can follow the traffic-free route by Sale Water Park (Image: MEN Staff) A top tip: bring your own pack-up or some snacks and stop off here for a picnic, making the most of the benches overlooking the water. After stopping off at Chorlton Water Park, you can keep following the River Mersey east, taking you to Fletcher Moss Gardens, or follow the river west towards Sale Water Park. Whichever direction you decide to take you’ll be rewarded with views of the gorgeous greenery which lines the river.

As the cycle trails are traffic-free you won’t have to worry about any cars, allowing you to enjoy the ride and soak up the scenery along the way. The trail takes you through the lush greenery that lines the River Mersey (Image: MEN Staff) When you’ve had your fill of the fresh air, head back to Velo Times to drop off your bike and pay for your time. You can round-off your bike ride with a drink or a bite to eat at the Jackson’s Boat, which has a huge beer garden with covered seating and a play area.

Bike hire costs £10 for adults for the first hour, £5 for every subsequent hour; and child’s bikes cost £5 for the first hour, £2. 50 for every following hour. A full day hire (24 hours) costs £45 for adults and £25 for children.

Child seats or trailers cost £5 per child, £2. 50 for every subsequent hour and £25 for the full day. Velo Times also does bike repairs and for more information, visit the shop’s website .

There is a pay and display car park by the pub, but it’s free for customers – you just need to enter your car registration number at the bar. Alternatively you can travel there by tram, with the Sale Water Park stop just a short walk away. For more of today’s top stories, click here.

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