The Lloyds Tour of Britain will pass through the region on Saturday, September 5, 2026.
It will begin in Helmsley and finish in Leyburn, with the route taking riders through the North York Moors, Easingwold, Boroughbridge, Ripon, and into the Yorkshire Dales.
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said: “The Lloyds Tour of Britain is the UK’s biggest professional road cycling race, attracting thousands of visitors who spend money on hotels, food, transport and retail.
“In 2024, the race generated more than £30 million for host areas.
“Through my Mayoral Community Grant, we’re helping communities celebrate this fantastic event, bring residents together to enjoy the excitement of world-class cycling, and showcase the unique character, hospitality and pride of our towns and villages to the many visitors and spectators who will line the route, as well as the millions watching on TV across the world.”
Town and parish councils along the route can apply for up to £500 to support community celebrations, while Helmsley and Leyburn can apply for up to £2,000.
The funding, provided through the Mayoral Community Grant by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, can be used for decorations, events, and activities on the day.
The stage will cover around 2,700 metres of ascent, making it the toughest of the 2026 men’s race.
The route will take riders through the North York Moors, Easingwold, Boroughbridge, Ripon, and the Yorkshire Dales (Image: swpix.com)
Cycling fans will also have the chance to ride parts of the route during the Lloyds Ride the Route Sportive on Sunday, August 30.
Starting from Thirsk Racecourse, the sportive offers routes of 56km, 100km, and 184km.
Dominic Barry, cycling development manager at the North York Moors National Park Authority, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the Lloyds Tour of Britain Men back to the North York Moors National Park.
“Following a memorable finish at Duncombe Park in 2022, it’s fantastic to see Helmsley once again hosting a world-class cycling event.”
The peloton will tackle a climb out of Pateley Bridge before heading to Grassington and continuing through Buckden and Aysgarth.
A final ascent at Grinton will lead to the finish in Leyburn.
For more information about the route, visit: https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/tourofbritain/article/20260630-Stage-routes-go-live-for-the-2026-Lloyds-Tour-of-Britain-Men-0
In March, the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority approved £350,000 from the Mayoral Investment Fund to secure a full stage of the race in both 2026 and 2027.
This funding will also support North Yorkshire Council’s costs for road closures and traffic management to ensure the event runs smoothly.
The Lloyds Tour of Britain is expected to attract large crowds and generate significant visitor spending across the region.