Richmond pedals its way to cargo bike capital status as hundreds attend second annual fair

Hundreds of people headed to Richmond town centre on Sunday 20 September for the second Richmond Cargo Bike Fair, as the borough took centre stage in this year’s London Cycling Festival.

The Richmond Cargo Bike Fair was one of five main hub events in the festival’s programme, and the only hub event in outer London and the only one dedicated to cargo bikes, further cementing Richmond upon Thames' reputation as the cargo bike capital of London.

Residents and visitors from across London, including Putney and Walthamstow, came to discover what cargo bikes have to offer. Attendees were able to test ride a wide range of models and speak directly to retailers and experts, helping them find the right option for their needs before making a decision.

Councillor Alexander Ehmann, Deputy Leader of Richmond Council and Chair of the Transport and Air Quality Committee, said: "The Richmond Cargo Bike Fair was even bigger and better this year. The best way to understand the benefits of a cargo bike is to get on one and give it a go, and hundreds did exactly in Richmond town centre last Sunday.

"We've made no secret of our ambition to make Richmond upon Thames the cargo bike capital of London, and the success of this year’s fair shows that our reputation is growing well beyond the borough."

Accessibility was also a key part of this year's fair, with a range of accessible bikes and tricycles available for attendees to try. They proved particularly popular with people with limited mobility, showcasing how cycling can offer more people a practical and accessible way to get around the borough.

There was plenty on offer for younger cyclists too, with children taking part in cycling proficiency sessions to build their skills and confidence. The Metropolitan Police were also on hand, security marking bikes during the day.

Attendees enjoyed live music performances from The Basement Door and refreshments from a range of traders operating from cargo bikes.

Following the success of Richmond's first Cargo Bike Fair last year, this year’s bigger event forms part of the Council’s wider work to make cycling easier, safer and more accessible, while giving residents practical opportunities to explore alternatives to travelling by car for local journeys.

Residents can find out about schemes available in Richmond upon Thames including the community cargo bike hire scheme, Try Before You Bike offers and on-street cargo bike parking trial, and also learn more about the borough's all ability cycling sessions.

Watch the highlights from the 2026 Cargo Bike Fair.