Actors on exotic cycles and expert advice for all riders are two new features at the Eden Project's big bike bash today.
Cyclists on bikes of all shapes and sizes are invited to pedal through the Cornish attraction for the first time in what is being billed as the Tour d'Eden.
Theatre company Burn the Curtain will bring characters from their cycling promenade theatre The Adventures of Don Quixote by Bicycle, and offer workshops from 11am for people who want to decorate their bikes for the ride.
Members of the company, based in Honiton, will be riding their trademark animal-themed bikes for the event – which is the first time visitors have ever been allowed to ride through the Eden's Project's lush outdoor landscape.
People with bikes in need of a tune-up can visit a special cycle surgery, from 10am-2pm, by Gary Moger of Revolve Bicycle Works, based near Portreath, Cornwall.
Emma Hogg, Eden's Site Wide Live Producer, said: "We're very excited to be welcoming Burn the Curtain and their unique promenade, participatory, pedalling theatre style to the Tour d'Eden. Their irreverent style and spectacular animal-themed bikes will be a brilliant addition to what promises to be a uniquely Eden festival of cycling."
Cyclists and cycle clubs are being encouraged to take part.
At midday the cyclists will be invited to take a guided, two-mile cycle tour through the outdoor habitats of Eden – the Tour d'Eden – culminating in a snaking climb up the challenging land train route.
Eden already gives a discount for cyclists but for one day only, people from Cornwall and Devon – whether they cycle to Eden or not – will be able to take advantage of the return of the Locals' Annual Pass which allows unlimited entry to Eden for a year, costing just £7.50. Proof of residence and a photo ID is required.
Cyclists who don't live in Cornwall or Devon can still take advantage of a specially discounted rate of £15 for adults. Young cyclists aged 16 or under will be admitted free.
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