UK Hosts Both Tour de France Races in Historic 2027 Event

Britain is about to become the center of the cycling world, and millions of people can watch without buying a ticket.

Edinburgh and Leeds will host the opening stages of both the men's and women's Tour de France in summer 2027. It marks the first time the women's race has ever started outside mainland Europe and the first time both Tours have launched together in any country beyond France.

The men's race kicks off July 2 with a 114-mile ride from Edinburgh to Carlisle, showcasing Scotland's stunning terrain. Over three days, riders will pass through the Lake District on their way to Liverpool, then head from Welshpool to Cardiff, finishing with views of the Brecon Beacons.

The women's race begins July 30 in Leeds, continuing to Manchester, then through the Peak District to Sheffield. The final stage takes place in London on August 1.

More than 900 kilometers of public roads will transform into cycling routes, bringing the world's biggest free sporting event to neighborhoods across Britain. When England hosted three stages in 2014, an estimated 4.8 million people lined the roads to cheer.

The Ripple Effect

This isn't just about three days of racing. British Cycling plans to recruit 7,000 volunteers for route operations and community engagement, creating opportunities for locals to be part of something historic.

The UK government is investing £32 million to support the races and their lasting impact. Economists forecast the event will boost the economy by £150 million, but the real value might be harder to measure.

Former world champion Lizzie Deignan called the women's race coming to Britain "a huge moment for the sport" that will inspire countless women and girls to start cycling. With British Cycling membership recently declining by 11,000 people in a year, organizers hope these races can reignite passion for the sport nationwide.

Sports minister Stephanie Peacock emphasized the accessibility factor: spectators won't need expensive tickets or special passes. Tour de France director Christian Prudhomme praised Britain's "passion and pride" for cycling, noting the chosen routes "reflect the beauty and diversity of Britain's terrain."

From Edinburgh Castle to Welsh valleys, Britain's landscapes will shine on the global stage while communities experience world-class sport right outside their doors.