The full route for the 2026 Lloyds Tour of Britain Women has been announced and includes a stage start and finish in Cumberland.
The riders competing in the 2026 Lloyd’s Tour of Britain Women will face the longest race in the event’s history, with a total distance of almost 650km, across the five stages.
Cockermouth is the start and finish point for stage one. The route will take it through Frizington, Whitehaven, Lowca, Workington, Flimby, Maryport, Allonby, Silloth, Wigton, Caldbeck and Aspatria.
Stage 1: Cockermouth – Cockermouth: Wednesday August 19 2026
This marks the first time the town has hosted the women’s race.
The first stage is the longest of the race, as the riders will compete for the green jersey through 158.9km of Cumbrian countryside, including 1,913m of ascent.
The peloton will head towards Whitehaven, through Workington and Maryport.
Along the coast, taking in the views of the Irish Sea, that could also bring crosswinds on exposed sections. The route then makes its way through Silloth – which includes a 700m section of cobbles – towards Wigton, climbing up the hills on the outer borders of the Lake District National Park.
The riders will finish on a 26km circuit around Clints Crags, passing Watch Hill and Ruddings Hill.
The first leader of the general classification will then be decided at the finish line back in the centre of Cockermouth.
Leader of Cumberland Council Mark Fryer, said: “We are delighted that the route takes in so much of our west coast and will showcase our amazing towns and landscape.
“Once again, we will be in the global spotlight. This is great news for Cumberland and following on from the announcement that we will stage a finish and a start of the Tour de France next year; this is proof that our area is a prime location for international events.
“We look forward to working with Cumbria Combined Authority and other partners to support the 2026 Lloyds Tour of Britain Women event this August. This is a massive
opportunity to showcase our west coast and inspire our communities to get active and see a world class event on their doorstep.”
John Barradell OBE, interim chief executive of Cumbria Combined Authority, added: “This is a great opportunity to show the world what makes our area so special, from our coastline and market towns to the stunning landscapes that people travel from far and wide to enjoy.
“Just as importantly, it gives local people the chance to see world-class sport right on their doorstep.
“We know major events like this bring real benefits to local businesses and communities, and they can inspire people of all ages to get active and give cycling a go. We’re looking forward to working with our partners to make this a memorable event for Cumbria and everyone who comes to watch it.”
The full list of stages is:
- Stage 1: Cockermouth – Cockermouth
- Stage 2: Clitheroe – Blackpool
- Stage 3: Mold to The Great Orme, Llandudno
- Stage 4: Llanidloes to Hay-on-Wye
- Stage 5: Royal Leamington Spa – Royal Leamington Spa
Jonathan Day, director of events for British Cycling Ventures, said: “Announcing the route is one of the key milestones in the build-up to the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women, as it gives riders, teams and fans their first real insight into how this year’s race could unfold.
“We have put together a course that provides opportunities for a range of different rider types to try and challenge for the title, ensuring every stage has the potential to shape the overall outcome.
“Beyond the sporting challenge, the route reflects our ambition to bring elite women’s cycling to the diverse communities across Britain.
“Each stage will showcase a different part of the country and provide fans with the chance to experience world-class racing on their doorstep. We are excited to see the race come to life and to welcome spectators to what promises to be a fantastic edition of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women.”
