Back wheel wobbly

[staylucky]

Hello. I know this is not hugely important right now. But I'm trying to fix my old bike so that my daughter can use it whilst she's off school. The back wheel has loads of play in it. I've tried tightening up the wheel nuts but it is still moving from side to side. What am I doing wrong? Obv this has to be a home fix now. Any help much appreciated. Will post link for a video of what's happening.

Oh no, cycling is important - essential for mental health, feeling good and getting some exercise which is exactly what we all need now more than ever.
Likely the bearings/ hub has gone. Does it sound rough when you spin it? A bike shop would possibly be able to clean and regrease the bearings (obviously not an option) - but it depend on the type of hub. Also check the rim wear, if that’s bad you’re better off replacing the wheel. I use Shimano RS100’s - they’re very cheap, and I get about 15,000 miles off them (wet, muddy, grotty, gritty roads). You’ll need a chain whip and lock ring to remove the cassette and fit it on the new wheel - have a look on GCN on YouTube, they have lots of step by step guides. You may also require a new cassette and chain if these are worn. There are lots of websites like wiggle for getting stuff online.

Cycling shops are apparently amongst the shops deemed to be "essential" (unless it's Evans Cycles )

Sounds like the cones in the wheel hub itself need tightening. If they are loose then tightening the wheel in the frame will make no difference. It's not a hard job.