Over 130 cyclists took to the roads around Keswick to celebrate exactly one year until the Tour de France arrives in the town.
Organised by the Keswick Tourism Association, the free community ride took place on Friday evening, and welcomed cyclists of all ages and abilities.
Participants chose from three routes inspired by the proposed Tour de France course through the Northern Lakes.
From experienced riders taking on the longest route to families and leisure cyclists enjoying the shorter options, the event showcased the town’s passion for cycling and its strong community spirit.
The evening began with a guided rollout through Keswick before riders headed out on their chosen route.
Spectators lined the streets to cheer participants on, while Café HNW in Fitz Park welcomed riders back with live music, food and refreshments, creating a fantastic atmosphere to round off the celebrations.
The event marked exactly one year until the Tour de France is set to pass through Keswick in July 2027, building excitement ahead of one of the biggest sporting events ever to visit Cumbria.
Jack Beament, tourism manager at the Keswick Tourism Association, said: “It was fantastic to see so many people come together to celebrate such a significant milestone for Keswick.
“The atmosphere throughout the evening was incredible, with riders of all abilities taking part and so many people turning out to support them. This event wasn’t about who crossed the finish line first.
“It was about bringing people together, inspiring more people to get out on their bikes and creating excitement ahead of next year’s Tour de France.
“Seeing over 130 cyclists riding through our beautiful landscape together was a brilliant sight and shows just how much enthusiasm there is for cycling in Keswick.”
One rider who took part said: “It was a fantastic night with such a great atmosphere from start to finish. Events like this are often advertised as races, which can be quite intimidating and put people off taking part.
“Running this as a group ride made everyone feel welcome and included, whether you were a seasoned cyclist or just out to enjoy the evening.
“Everyone supported each other on the road and there was a real sense of community throughout the ride. I’d love to see more events like this in the future.”
The Keswick Tourism Association would like to thank Ultimate Cycling Adventures for providing ride support, Café HNW for hosting the finish and after-party, the volunteers who gave up their time to help deliver the event, and every rider and supporter who helped make the evening such a success.
With just one year now to go until the Tour de France arrives in Keswick, Friday’s ride demonstrated the enthusiasm, excitement and community spirit that will help give the world’s biggest cycling race an unforgettable Cumbrian welcome in 2027.
