Greater Manchester Walking and Cycling Index

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

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

Every year, walking and cycling in Greater Manchester results in:

3,685

serious long-term health conditions prevented

£894.1 million

in economic benefit for individuals and the region

84,000 tonnes

of greenhouse gas emissions saved

Up to 500,000

cars taken off the road every day

Rabiya

I’m a car user, but I enjoy walking – green spaces are good for your health. Consistent public transport helps; we get the train into Manchester city centre and hop on the free bus or just walk around.

It’s easier to walk with the buggy in the city centre – it’s very pedestrianised and the edges of the pavement aren’t uneven. My daughter loves going outside, walking just calms her down and there’s a lot to learn from being outdoors.

She’s very inquisitive, she likes pointing out the yellow buses. So, I think making the surroundings more visually appealing with public artwork is great.

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