Tour de France will bring world’s best cyclists through Ribble Valley

The Ribble Valley will be among the areas showcased to a global audience when the Tour de France races through Lancashire next summer.

The world’s top cyclists will pass through Clitheroe and the Forest of Bowland on Saturday, July 3, 2027, as part of Stage 2 of the iconic race, which will cover around 80 miles across Lancashire.

The route announcement was made in Paris as organisers confirmed the full routes for the 2027 Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, with Britain set to host the start of both races in the same year for the first time.

Lancashire will play a significant role in Stage 2, with Morecambe hosting the intermediate sprint and all five King of the Mountains climbs taking place in the county.

The route will also take in Lancaster, Blackburn, Chorley and West Lancashire, bringing the international cycling spotlight to communities across the county, including the Ribble Valley.

County Coun. Stephen Atkinson, leader of Lancashire County Council, said: “Today's announcement means that some of the most exciting moments of the Tour de France will unfold right here on our doorstep, with the world’s best cyclists taking on Lancashire's roads and climbs.

“Bringing the Tour de France to Lancashire is a huge opportunity to showcase the county to audiences around the world, support our local businesses and bring communities together.

“I can’t wait to see people lining the route, cheering on the riders and showing the world what makes Lancashire such a special place.”

The event is expected to provide an opportunity to showcase the county's landscapes and communities to viewers around the world, with the Ribble Valley and Forest of Bowland among the areas along the route.

All six stages across the two Grand Départs will be broadcast live on free-to-air television in the UK on Five, alongside coverage on TNT Sports, which will show the entirety of the 2027 races.

Paul Bush, managing director of Grand Départ GB 2027, said: “To have both the Tour de France and the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift starting in Britain next summer is extraordinary, and a historic moment.”

Detailed maps of all six stages are available on the Routes page at letourgb.com.