Stories

Mon, 10 Aug 2026

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 'You could smell someone' who worked at Raleigh

The company was more than just a employer. For years, it was part of the fabric of Nottingham.

* Many who worked at the factory recall its warm and diverse atmosphere, with some mentioning the smell of metal and grease that seemed to be unique to the company.
* Some employees had family connections to the company, while others met their partners or gained lifelong friendships there.
* Raleigh's bikes were highly regarded for their quality and durability, with many people sharing stories of using them for decades and passing them down to future generations.
* The company has a rich history, having been featured in films such as Saturday Night and Sunday Morning, and its presence in Nottingham has been felt for over 100 years.
* However, the company's fortunes have declined in recent years, with the owner filing for insolvency proceedings, sparking fears that the end of an era may be nearing.