Leicester Walking and Cycling Index

Formerly known as Bike Life, this is the UK's biggest ever study of walking, wheeling and cycling.

Leicester continues to promote walking, wheeling and cycling, making it easier than ever before to travel actively around the city. The 2025 Index sets out just how big an impact people-powered movement is having.

Every year, walking and cycling in Leicester results in:

610

serious long-term health conditions prevented

£235.3 million

in economic benefit for individuals and the region

16,000 tonnes

of greenhouse gas emissions saved

Up to 95,000

cars taken off the road every day

Amina Shaikh

I came to Leicester from Pakistan in 2023 to do a PhD in Economics. Back home, I always drove, but here I couldn’t manage the cost and hassle of a car. I had stomach and blood pressure issues when I arrived, but it was hard to get a doctor’s appointment.

I started walking the 45 minutes to university every day and by the time I saw a doctor, my health issues had gone. I’d thought medication was just part of ageing, but this experience changed my mindset. Walking improved my health, and I realised age really is just a number.

Cyclists enjoying Quietways 1 route through south east London

Our methods and data sources

Find out more

  • Walk Wheel Cycle Trust's Walking and Cycling Index

    Walk Wheel Cycle Trust's Walking and Cycling Index (formerly Bike Life) is the UK and Ireland's biggest ever study of walking, wheeling and cycling in urban areas. Download the report now.

    The Walking and Cycling Index
  • Man in wheelchair on shared use path

    Walking for everyone: A guide to making walking and wheeling accessible, inclusive and desirable

    We've teamed up with Living Streets and ARUP to create a guide to support people in local government, the transport sector and spatial planning, make walking and wheeling for everyone.
    Walking for everyone
  • Lady smiling as she rides her trike through an archway

    Cycling for everyone

    We've teamed up with Arup to create a guide to support people in local government and the transport sector to make cycling a more inclusive activity for everyone.
    Inclusive cycling in cities and towns