Celebrate International Car-Free Day with a Weekend of Adventures in Kendal

This September, Kendal is marking International Car-Free Day with a weekend of activities that prove travel without a car can be affordable, adventurous, and fun for all ages.

Our base for the celebrations will be The Eddington, Kendal’s new sustainability hub, where you’ll find workshops, rides, talks, and creative sessions designed to inspire new ways of moving, exploring, and connecting.

Here’s what’s happening:

Overnight Family Cycling Adventure

Saturday 20 September 2025
Set off from The Eddington for a self-guided, family-friendly cycle ride along the traffic-free towpath and quiet country lanes, finishing at a peaceful campsite in the Arnside and Silverdale National Landscape.

• Meet at The Eddington for hot drinks, maps, and the chance to link up with other riders.

• Bring your camping kit and food for an overnight stay.

• Camping fees: £6 per adult, £4 under-12s, under-2s free (payable on-site).

• One booking = one family-size tent.

Experts from the Cycle Touring Festival will be in touch beforehand with advice on what to pack and details of the campsite.

Dr Bike at The Cyclery – Free Basic Bike Repairs

Saturday 20 September 2025
Give your bike some TLC with free repairs and safety checks from our community mechanics, supported by Cycling UK’s Big Bike Revival.

Note: A second Dr Bike session originally planned for 20–21 September has been cancelled.

Cycle Confidence Masterclass with Smile Cycling

Saturday 20 September 2025
Build your cycling confidence in a safe, traffic-free environment with trainer Jenny Lyon from Smile Cycling. This free masterclass is perfect for anyone looking to improve their skills and enjoy cycling more.

Green Sketching Workshop

Sunday 21 September 2025
Slow down and connect with nature through sketching with Karen Bentley-Brown, Green Sketch Ambassador.

• Relaxed walk with creative prompts.

• All materials (sketchbook, pencils) provided.

• Suggested donation: £5 (supports Future Fixers CIC).

Dr Bike Sunday Session

Sunday 21 September 2025
Another chance to bring your bike to The Cyclery at The Eddington for free checks and basic repairs, thanks to Cycling UK’s Big Bike Revival.

Car-Free Adventure Film Afternoon + Walk Britain Talk

Sunday 21 September 2025
Round off the weekend with an inspiring programme at The Eddington:

• Car-free adventure films curated by Kendal Mountain Festival.

• A talk from author Elsie Downing about her new book Walk Britain, celebrating 90 car-free walks across the UK.

• Delicious brews and cakes provided by Waste into Wellbeing, with donations supporting community projects.

Proceeds from this event go directly to The Eddington CIC.

Join the Movement

Whether you’re cycling, sketching, or simply soaking up inspiring stories, this weekend is all about reimagining travel and showing that car-free journeys can be practical, affordable, and fun.

📍 All events start at The Eddington, Kendal — your hub for community, creativity, and sustainability.

Let’s celebrate International Car-Free Day together and keep Kendal moving toward a greener future. 💚