Tour de France unveils route for Scottish stage
The official route of the opening stage of the Tour de France in 2027, known as the Grand Depart, has been revealed with the event starting in Edinburgh on Friday 2nd July.
Article Source: Tour de France
Last Updated: 16 January 2026 10:03
The start and finish locations for the 2027 Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift have been unveiled, as the ten host cities and towns were illuminated simultaneously in a nationwide “Tour de Skies” moment, marking the next major milestone on the road to the historic Grand Départs, which will be the largest free sporting spectacle in British history.
The announcement also reveals the full UK route for the men’s event, and Leeds as the start location for the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, on Friday 30 July 2027, before crossing the Pennines to Manchester, then returning to Sheffield via the climbs of the Peak District before concluding with a showpiece stage in London.
The men’s Tour de France will begin in Edinburgh on Friday 2 July 2027, with an opening stage heading to Carlisle, before visiting Keswick, Liverpool and Welshpool, finishing the UK leg of the world’s biggest annual sporting event in Cardiff.
To celebrate the moment, all 10 start and finish venues were lit up simultaneously, with a yellow beam illuminating the sky, with prominent locations providing a stunning backdrop.
From the castles of Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Powis, to the Moot Hall in Keswick, across the iconic Liverpool waterfront and the London skyline, the coordinated yellow beams celebrated each region’s role in welcoming the Grand Départ while uniting the UK in one national moment of anticipation ahead of 2027.
Alongside the host venues, first details of Joy, the social impact programme that will embed community impact at the heart of the 2027 Grand Départ was announced, while British Cycling also confirmed that 7,000 volunteers will be recruited to support the delivery of the world’s biggest free-to-watch sporting event.
Christian Prudhomme, Director, Tour de France (ASO) said:“The UK has always welcomed the Tour with passion and pride, and the route details we are revealing today reflect the beauty and diversity of Britain’s terrain. Bringing both Grand Départs here is a testament to the strength of our partnership with British Cycling and the enthusiasm of the UK.”
John Swinney, First Minister of Scotland said: “The Tour de France starting in Edinburgh will be a moment of real national significance and a powerful endorsement of Scotland’s ability to deliver on the biggest international stages. I am delighted that the historic streets of our capital and the beautiful landscapes of Scotland will be at the heart of this iconic sporting event, one that will be watched by millions of fans on the route and around the world.”
Social Impact
Alongside the route announcement, organisers also revealed Joy, the social impact programme at the heart of the 2027 Grand Départ, that aims to tackle inactivity and improve mental wellbeing, support communities to thrive, and to make Britain more productive and prosperous.
Six core programmes will be rolled out across the home nations, with organisers working collaboratively with governments, local councils, core delivery partners and community representatives to create opportunities for young people to develop their skills, break down barriers for girls in sport, and to showcase community culture through the voices of Britain.
Additionally, British Cycling will look to recruit more than 7,000 volunteers for the Grand Départ, inviting people across the UK to play a hands-on role in delivering the world’s biggest free-to-watch sporting event. Thousands of opportunities will be available across route operations, spectator support and community engagement, offering people of all ages the chance to be part of Tour history, with more details to be announced when the programme is launched in the spring.
To find out more information and keep up-to-date with the 2027 Grand Départs, please visit www.letourgb.com
Sponsored Links
Latest Edinburgh News
Big screen family fun lands at Vue this February half term
With a fantastic roster of brand-new blockbusters and familiar favourites, there's plenty for the whole family to enjoy at Vue this Scottish half term!
READ MORE
OMNi enters home stretch of landmark refurbishment
Edinburgh's affordable leisure and entertainment hub, OMNi has announced its centre-wide refurbishment is progressing well and is due to complete at the end of March 2026.
READ MORE
Aldi Scotland marks major milestone for its Scottish Sport Fund
Aldi Scotland has marked a major milestone for its Scottish Sport Fund, reaching £500,000 in donations after ten years of supporting grassroots sports clubs across the country.
READ MORE
Edinburgh Tradfest announces 2026 programme
Opening this year's festival at Potterrow, is multi-award winning, trad music powerhouse RURA performing tunes from their 15-year-long repertoire; and Scottish newcomers Astro Bloc!
READ MORE
Uncle Tiger brings a rotating line up of Asian flavours and night time energy to Bristo Place
A new restaurant opening on Edinburgh's Bristo Place this February is offering diners something a little different...
READ MORE
The Leddie Loves package launches this February
Whether it's a quiet getaway or a Valentine's treat, let The Leddie set the scene for a romantic getaway!
READ MORE
Love is in the air as the biggest wedding showcase in Scotland returns this weekend!
The ever-popular Scottish Wedding Show returns to Glasgow this Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th February, bringing together thousands of happy couples for a loved-up weekend of wedding planning fun!
READ MORE
Summerhall Arts announce applications for Second Annual Group Show and reveal winner of Annual Exhibition Collaboration with Edinburgh College of Art
Summerhall Arts is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Second Annual Summerhall Arts Group Show, taking place in spring 2026.
READ MORE
Pioneering street dance collective THREE60 take their work on tour across Scotland
This Spring, pioneering street dance collective THREE60 are taking their bold and highly energetic show World’s Evolution on tour across Scotland.
READ MORE
Margarita Mile set to shake up the capital
Edinburgh's top bartenders and mixologists are getting set to shake things up with the city's first 'Margarita Mile' for Margarita Month!
READ MORE
Forever Edinburgh partners with Civerinos to launch limited edition Local Legends pizzas for National Pizza Day
Forever Edinburgh is teaming up with Edinburgh favourite Civerinos to fire up National Pizza Day!
READ MORE
Top 10 family days and dining deals to enjoy in Scotland this February half term
From the World of Illusions to dazzling jellyfish lanterns, Scotland is packed with unforgettable adventures for the whole family to enjoy!
READ MORE
Foodies Festival returns to Edinburgh for a spectacular 21st Birthday celebration
Food lovers, music fans and families are in for a treat as Foodies Festival returns to Edinburgh for three packed days of delicious food, live music, hands-on experiences and family fun!
READ MORE
The Royal Yacht Britannia serves perfect blend for Queen Elizabeth II centenary
The Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh has created a new Royal Tea and enhanced guided group tour experience to mark 100 years since the birth of Queen Elizabeth II in 2026.
READ MORE
Des Clarke brings new comedy show, Life After Des, to Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Glasgow
After more than a decade away from touring (yes, ten full years), Des Clarke is back where he belongs... under the lights, mic in hand, oversharing for your entertainment.
READ MORE
How to beat the crowds and save on entry at Camera Obscura this February
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions has announced extended opening hours throughout the February half term, giving visitors even more time to enjoy one of Edinburgh's most popular attractions.
READ MORE
Music icons take centre stage on the big screen at Vue Edinburgh this February
From legendary rock bands to modern global sensations, music fans are invited to experience an electrifying line-up of artists on the big screen at Vue Edinburgh Omni Centre.
READ MORE
Historic Edinburgh attraction unveils first ever immersive dining experience
This February, The Real Mary King's Close launches its longest and most ambitious experience yet - The Cape Controversy, inspired by the real secret Edinburgh Enlightenment society, the Cape Club.
READ MORE
Conifox Adventure Park launches Easter Festival 2026 with egg hunts, characters and family fun
Conifox Adventure Park is inviting families to celebrate Easter with a magical spring adventure as its much-loved Easter Festival returns for 2026!
READ MORE
Eat Out Edinburgh returns this March with new line up of restaurants including Brasserie Prince at The Balmoral
A month of exceptional dining awaits as Eat Out Edinburgh returns to the city this March, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy a month of exclusive deals and special menus!
READ MORE
Half term savings at Dobbies
Families looking for great-value half-term days out will find plenty to enjoy at Dobbies Garden Centres this February.
READ MORE
Number One welcomes Will Lockwood from Roots York for one night chef collaboration
Number One at The Balmoral, led by Chef de Cuisine Mathew Sherry, will host a special one-night collaborative dinner with Will Lockwood, Head Chef of Michelin-starred Roots York.
READ MORE
The fastest growing multi arts festival in Scotland returns for 2026
Kelburn Garden Party returns this July to the enchanted grounds of Kelburn Castle in Scotland, celebrating its 16th year of music, art, nature and adventure!
READ MORE
Commonwealth nations confirmed for 3x3 Basketball at Glasgow 2026
Glasgow 2026 has confirmed the nations set to compete in the 3x3 Basketball competition at this summer's Commonwealth Games.
READ MORE
Bonnie & Wild team up with The Famous Grouse for Guinness Six Nations hospitality deal
Bonnie & Wild has teamed up with The Famous Grouse ahead of the upcoming Guinness Six Nations campaign, which kicks off this Thursday when France take on Ireland at the Stade de France in Paris.
READ MORE
75 participants sought for charity challenge across five Victorian pools this Easter Monday
Who's ready for their next adventure? Edinburgh Leisure is calling on spirited individuals for the 2026 Victorian Pool Crawl!
READ MORE
The Scottish Motorhome, Caravan and Holiday Home Show: Everything You Need To Know
With up to 200 exhibitors showcasing everything from motorhomes to boats, e-bikes, tents and awnings, this year’s show has something for every type of adventure.
READ MORE
Dynamic Earth boosts accessibility with new British Sign Language (BSL) Interpreted Planetarium experiences
Scotland's leading science centre enhances its commitment to accessibility with BSL-interpreted shows and new Changing Places facilities.
READ MORE
Dobbies launches Easter events with fun for families and four legged friends
Dobbies is inviting families and pets to join the Easter fun, with a fantastic selection of events to enjoy!
READ MORE
Free event to offer legal and property advice for families navigating dementia
A free event in Edinburgh is set to offer families impacted by dementia the chance to hear from a panel of experienced professionals.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links