The Urban Cycle Centre, a social enterprise based at The Barn Countryside Centre in Whitefield, works to promote physical activity, mental wellbeing, social cohesion and community engagement.
In January 2025, the group received £995 funding from the Wellness Investment Programme Prestwich, with support from Bury VCFA. The funding enabled them to launch Coddywomple Walks, a project designed to introduce residents to the parks of Prestwich. The name “Coddywomple” means to travel purposefully towards a vague or unknown destination, perfectly capturing the spirit of the initiative.
The project offered three levels of walks to suit different age groups and abilities. Coddywomple Wanders encouraged children, young people and families to enjoy the outdoors. Coddywomple Strides were aimed at older people who wanted to lead more active lives and socialise on slightly more challenging routes. Coddywomple Ambles supported those living with long term health conditions, including cancer and cardiovascular disease. All walks were designed to improve mental health and wellbeing through gentle, accessible physical activity.
The walks proved popular, with good attendance each week, helped by favourable weather. Participants enjoyed refreshments afterwards, and many returned regularly. Over the course of the project, ten walks took place with 87 people attending. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive: 18 of the 27 respondents said they were more likely to walk more often after joining, while 23 described the walks as “very good” and said they would return.
The impact went beyond physical activity. Attendees explored local areas they might not have visited alone, gaining confidence and a sense of safety. Many made new friends, with the welcoming atmosphere helping to reduce isolation and loneliness.
The Coddywomple Walks project demonstrated how a simple idea, supported by local funding, can inspire healthier lifestyles, strengthen community connections, and improve wellbeing across diverse groups.
