The Tour de France is officially coming back to the UK in 2027, and even better – it’s heading straight for the Lake District.
What you need to know
In 2027, the 114th edition of the Tour de France – alongside the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift – is coming to the UK, and we couldn’t be more excited. The race will kick off with a full British trilogy, travelling through Scotland, Wales and England as part of the Grand Départ.
It will all begin in Edinburgh, before heading south through Wales and back into England, marking the first time the Tour has opened across three UK nations in one go. Woohoo!
The first stage will start in Edinburgh on 2 July 2027 and race down to Carlisle on day one. Stage 2 then starts in Keswick on 3 July, before the cyclists head south through Cumbria and into some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. This means parts of the Lake District will be right in the thick of the action – including roads passing close to Pheasant Lodge.
For cycling fans and Tour enthusiasts, this looks set to be an unforgettable moment for Cumbria. We all know the roadside crowds the Tour attracts, but there’s already talk of painted sheep (yes, really). Who knows what else the crowds will come up with on the day?
Why this is such a big deal for the Lakes?
Firstly, the Lakes is proper cycling country. Long climbs, fast descents – my thighs are screaming just thinking about it. But you’ll also have beautiful scenery on every turn. Bringing the Tour de France here feels like the roads were made for it.
For locals and visitors alike, it’s a rare chance to see the world’s best cyclists racing on familiar roads and through picturesque villages. And if you’re staying nearby, you’ll be perfectly placed to soak up the atmosphere without battling city crowds.
What we know so far about the Tour de France 2027 route in the Lake District
Details will be confirmed closer to the time, but here’s what we know so far:
- The men’s Tour de France 2027 will start in Edinburgh on Friday 2nd July 2027
- The opening stage will finish on the same day in Carlisle
- Stage 2 will start in Keswick on Saturday 3rd July 2027
- The race will travel from Keswick passing through the south Lake District and Lancashire. Finishing in Liverpool on the same day.
- Timings of the race are still to be finalised but the start time is usually 11am-2pm and finish 4-5pm, depending on stage length.
- It’s a free event to watch. So pick your road and space and cheer on the riders.
- Expect temporary road closures and large spectator crowds along key sections
We’ll make sure to update this post with official maps, timings and viewing spots when they are released. You can also visit letourgb.com website for an overview of all stage maps.
Planning a visit around the Tour
If you’re thinking of visiting the Lake District during the Tour de France in 2027, it’s worth planning early. The Pheasant Lodge is close to the route – so if you’re thinking of getting in on the action. Move quick. Accommodation will book up quickly, especially in areas close to the route, like us.
The upside? An incredible atmosphere, buzzing villages, and the chance to combine world-class sport with walks, food, swims, history and summer evenings once the peloton has passed through.
It’s one of those rare moments and we can’t wait to join in the spectacle.
Your Guide to the Tour De France 2027
As more details are announced – including route maps, best viewing points, road closures and dates – we’ll keep this guide updated and our newsletter, so you can plan your trip (or your cheering spot) properly.
Bookmark it, get in touch for accommodation needs and keep checking back for more updates.
Hannah – Host at The Pheasant Lodge x