March 19, England: In an exciting announcement for cycling fans, the Tour de France is set to return to the UK in July 2027, with Edinburgh and Yorkshire hosting the prestigious Grand Départ. This marks the third time in 20 years that Britain will host the start of the legendary race, following London in 2007 and Yorkshire in 2014.
What makes the 2027 edition even more special is that, for the first time, the Tour de France Femmes, the women’s equivalent of the race will also begin in Britain. Yorkshire is expected to host the start of the women’s race later in the summer, further cementing the UK’s reputation as a global hub for cycling.
A Grand Départ Like No Other
The men’s race will begin with a spectacular start in Edinburgh’s city center before riders take on a stunning three-stage journey through Scotland, England, and Wales. With its breathtaking landscapes and cycling-mad crowds, the UK is set to deliver a Tour de France experience like no other.
Celebrations were in full swing in Edinburgh when the news was announced, with British cycling legend Mark Cavendish leading the excitement. The Tour’s all-time stage win record-holder recalled the electric atmosphere of the 2007 London Grand Départ, joking, “I couldn’t even stop to pee because there were so many people lining the roads.” He praised Edinburgh as the perfect host city, saying, “You can’t help but want to go out on your bike.”
Tour de France director Christian Prudhomme described the event as “the only sports event made for people who don’t like sport,” reflecting on how even casual spectators get swept up in the excitement. He fondly remembered the 2014 Yorkshire edition, when riders applauded the sheer enthusiasm of the crowd a rare and touching moment in the Tour’s long history.
A Game-Changer for Women’s Cycling
The 2027 Tour de France Femmes is set to be a turning point for women’s cycling, bringing the race to a massive new audience in the UK. While details remain under wraps, Leeds is expected to host the start, and organizers are working to overcome the logistical challenges of hosting both events in the same year.
Mark Cavendish hailed the development as “brilliant,” emphasizing that cycling has been “at the forefront of pushing equality.” The return of the women’s Tour has already been a huge success, and its arrival in the UK will only accelerate its growth.
An Event Two Decades in the Making
Bringing the Tour de France back to Britain wasn’t an overnight achievement. Talks between Edinburgh and Paris have been ongoing since the early 2000s, and the bid gained momentum after the successful relaunch of the women’s Tour three years ago.
Simon Morton, director of events at UK Sport, highlighted the impact of live sport in the UK, saying, “This will be the biggest free spectator event ever hosted in the UK. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance for people to see world-class sport up close.”
Scotland, Wales, and England in the Spotlight
Although the exact route is yet to be finalized, Edinburgh, Glasgow, the Lake District, Manchester, mid-Wales, and south Wales are expected to play key roles in the men’s race. A stage finish in Cardiff is also likely before the race heads back to France.
The 2014 Grand Départ in Yorkshire saw over 3 million fans line the roads, setting a high standard but organizers believe the 2027 edition will be even bigger.
For Scottish cyclist Sean Flynn, the Grand Départ in Edinburgh is a dream come true. “I never thought I could have more motivation to ride in the Tour, but now that’s my long-term goal,” said the 25-year-old. “The Tour has a massive impact wherever it goes, and it’s going to inspire so many people.”
Pete Ellen, head of the Scottish Cycling Academy, echoed this excitement, saying, “It’s a brilliant opportunity to get more people on their bikes. The more people who ride, the better the world will be—it’s as simple as that.”
Welsh cyclist Josh Tarling, who rides for Ineos Grenadiers, was equally thrilled. “It’s a proud moment for Welsh cycling,” he said, celebrating the inclusion of Welsh stages in the race.
A Historic Celebration of Cycling
The UK’s successful bid was backed by a £30 million government package for major events, originally aiming for a 2026 start before plans shifted due to next year’s Barcelona Grand Départ. More details about the 2027 stages will be unveiled this autumn, fueling excitement for what promises to be a truly historic celebration of cycling.
With its stunning landscapes, passionate fans, and deep cycling heritage, the UK is more than ready to welcome the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes. This is more than just a race it’s an opportunity to inspire a whole new generation of cyclists and fans across Britain.
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