“GRAND DÉPART GRANDE-BRETAGNE 2027”
In an unprecedented move in cycling history, the United Kingdom will host the opening stages of both the men’s Tour de France and the women’s Tour de France Femmes in the summer of 2027. This marks the first time both “Grands Départs” will be held outside of France, promising the largest free sporting spectacle in UK history.
Organizers have unveiled the routes for the six opening stages, which will see the world’s top cyclists race across Scotland, England, and Wales over six spectacular days.
The Routes: A Grand Tour of Britain
The 2027 festivities will be a summer-long celebration of cycling, traversing Britain from north to south.
The Men’s Tour de France (Starts July 2):
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Stage 1 (July 2): Begins at the historic Edinburgh Castle and finishes in Carlisle, racing through the Scottish Borders.
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Stage 2: Journeys from the Lake District town of Keswick to the iconic port city of Liverpool.
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Stage 3: Features a historic first visit to Wales, starting in Welshpool and culminating in Cardiff after a demanding route through the Welsh Valleys and the Brecon Beacons, featuring eight climbs in the final 50 miles.
The Tour de France Femmes (Starts July 30):
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Stage 1 (July 30): Starts in Leeds and finishes in Manchester.
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Stage 2: Races through the challenging climbs of the Peak District from Manchester to Sheffield.
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Stage 3 (August 1): Concludes the UK leg with a final stage in central London (exact route to be confirmed).
A Unifying National Event
This double departure is a monumental logistical undertaking designed to unite the nation. As Simon Morton, UK Sport’s director of events, stated, the ambition is to “host a massive sporting event that would genuinely thread together the countries, cities, and communities of Great Britain.”
The expected scale is staggering. Building on the success of the 2014 Grand Départ—which drew an estimated 3.5 million spectators and generated £128 million for the economy—organizers are preparing for up to 10 million people to line the roads in 2027.
Legacy and Inspiration
The event is seen as a catalyst for lasting change. Jon Dutton, chief executive of British Cycling, called it a “once-in-a-generation chance to build a healthier, more active and more connected nation.”
For Wales, hosting a stage for the first time is a major opportunity. First Minister Eluned Morgan said it would “showcase our stunning landscapes” and raise the country’s profile as a world-class destination.
The impact on women’s sport is particularly significant. Former world champion Lizzie Deignan highlighted this, stating: “This is a huge moment for the sport and an opportunity that will inspire countless women and girls to get on their bikes.”
The 2027 Tour de France is set to be more than just a race; it will be a historic, nationwide festival celebrating sport, landscape, and community, leaving a legacy of inspiration long after the peloton has moved on to French shores.
