What's on in April and May: Local Events You Won’t Want to Miss

We love getting people outdoors and bringing our local communities together—and over the next few weeks, we have loads of brilliant events happening across the country. Whether you’re a cyclist, outdoor swimmer, camper, or just love a good wander, we’ve got something lined up for you.

Here’s your round-up of what’s on near you.

Keswick Beginners Bike Maintenance Evening

Location: Alpkit Keswick Store
Date: Tuesday 22 April
Event Link: Keswick Beginners Bike Maintenance Evening

This is the perfect introduction for anyone new to bike mechanics or looking to gain confidence in looking after their bike. We’ll go through the basics of safety checks, cleaning your chain, adjusting brakes, trail-side repairs, and more. You don’t need to bring any tools—just yourself, your bike, and any kit you already own. Alpkit will provide snacks, drinks, and a warm, welcoming space to learn. Great for locals looking to build skills ahead of summer riding.

Mike Raine Book Tour – A Bikepacker’s Tales from the Trails

Location: Alpkit Inverness Store
Date: Wednesday 23 April
Event Link: Mike Raine Book Tour - Cancelled

Join us in Inverness for an evening of stories, adventure, and inspiration with bikepacking author and Sonder rider Mike Raine. Mike will be talking about his experiences on two wheels—sharing tales of trail mishaps, magic moments, and what it really means to travel by bike. You’ll also have the chance to get a signed copy of his latest book and take a look at his Sonder Broken Road Pinion bike. Expect drinks, snacks, and an evening full of great conversation with like-minded folks.

Oat To Joy Book Launch with Emma Pooley

Location: Alpkit Kingston Store
Date: Friday 25 April
Event Link: Oat To Joy Book Launch

Join us for the launch of Oat To Joy, the new book by world champion cyclist and triathlete Emma Pooley. This isn’t just any book launch—it’s an evening of celebration, live readings, and conversation around the joy of real food, sports nutrition, and what it takes to reach the top of elite sport. Expect snack samples, Q&A time with Emma, and a relaxed space to chat about racing, training, and gear with one of the sport’s greats. Every ticket supports the Alpkit Foundation.

Ilkley Women’s Social Ride

Location: Alpkit Ilkley Store
Date: Sunday 27 April, 9:30am
Event Link: Ilkley Women's Social Ride

If you're based in or around Ilkley and fancy a friendly, inclusive bike ride, this is one to mark in your calendar. Led by our store hero Jenni, this 12–15 mile road ride is open to anyone who identifies as female or non-binary. No need to worry if you’ve never ridden in a group before—it’s all about social pace, good vibes, and making it accessible to everyone. There’s no race pace, no pressure, and definitely no one gets left behind. We’ll set off from the Ilkley store at 9:30am, and of course, we’ve got a café stop planned! Just bring your bike, helmet, snacks and good spirits.

Right to Swim 2025 – Bristol

Location: Meet at Alpkit Bristol Store
Date: Sunday 27 April
Event Link: Right to Swim 2025 – Bristol

Join us for a wild swim in solidarity with the Kinder Trespass and the national Right to Roam movement. If you’re in the South West and can’t make it to the Peak District, this is your chance to show support for public access to wild waters. We’ll meet at the Bristol store for coffee and a bun, then hop on the bus to a local wild swim spot. Bring your swim gear and your sense of adventure—this is about coming together as a community and reclaiming our right to dip.

Walk and Talk – Keswick

Location: Meet at Alpkit Keswick Store
Date: Tuesday 29 April, 9:30am
Event Link: Walk and Talk – Keswick

Need a reason to get out of the house and enjoy the beautiful Lake District? Join Abby, our Keswick store manager, for a relaxed morning walk through woodland trails and along Derwentwater. It’s a friendly, no-judgement space to chat, connect, and enjoy a shared moment in nature. We’ll have tea, coffee, and pastries waiting for you at the end—and plenty of feel-good energy along the way. Whether you’re feeling a bit low or just want company on a walk, come join us.

Georgie Duckworth Talk – Wild Swimming Walks Bristol & Bath

Location: Alpkit Bristol Store
Date: Wednesday 30 April
Event Link: Georgie Duckworth Talk

Join author Georgie Duckworth for an inspiring evening of stories from the rivers, lakes, and swimming holes of the South West. Her new book, Wild Swimming Walks Bristol and Bath, is set to become the go-to guide for summer adventures—and this is your chance to hear the stories behind it. From encounters with kingfishers to tips on avoiding the crowds, Georgie will share the highs (and occasional lows!) of her wild swimming journey, and answer all your questions along the way.

Alpkit Bristol Social Ride

Location: Meet at Alpkit Bristol Store
Date: Sunday 11 May
Event Link: Alpkit Bristol Social Ride

If you love your gravel chunky and your trails wild, this is your ride. Led by our in-house dirt duo, Mike and Rowan, this off-road ride will take you deep into the mud, puddles, and rocky lanes around Bristol. This one’s ideal for those with some MTB experience—expect a no-drop, casual pace with a healthy helping of grit and grins. Spares, snacks, and big smiles are highly encouraged. If you love local adventure and don’t mind getting your socks dirty, we’ll see you there.

Hathersage Tent Festival

Location: Hathersage Football Club Field
Date: Saturday 10 & Sunday 11 May
Event Link: Hathersage Tent Festival

The tent show is back! Join Alpkit and Outside in the heart of the Peak District for the biggest little tent festival around. Whether you're looking for a new backpacking tent, a comfy family camping setup, or just want to explore what’s out there, this is your chance to test out gear from the best brands in the business—Alpkit, MSR, Sea to Summit, Nemo, and more. Plus, you’ll find deals, demos, expert advice, and refreshments to keep you going. Open all weekend, and well worth the trip.

If you live near one of our stores or you’re up for a little adventure, we’d love to see you at one of these events. These gatherings are all about community, inspiration, and enjoying the outdoors—come and be a part of it!