The UK cycling calendar’s crown jewel, the Tour of Britain, is set to return in 2025 with a six-day journey. Now a firm fixture on the UCI ProSeries calendar, this year’s race promises to be bigger than ever, drawing top international teams and talent to the roads of England and Wales.
At Sports Tourist, we know that following the Tour of Britain is one of the best ways to experience the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant towns. It’s an event that brings the spectacle of elite cycling directly to your doorstep. To help you plan your unforgettable adventure, we’ve broken down the essentials for chasing the peloton.
The Route: From the Coast to a Grand Finale in the Welsh Capital
The 2025 Tour of Britain will traverse the length and breadth of the country, offering a mix of flat sprint finishes, rolling hills, and challenging mountain tests. The race runs from Tuesday, September 2nd to Sunday, September 7th, 2025.
Key Highlights of the Route:
- Stage 1: Woodbridge to Southwold (September 2nd) The race kicks off with a 161.4km stage in Suffolk, a flat and fast test that’s all but guaranteed to end in a mass sprint finish in the coastal town of Southwold.
- Stage 2: Stowmarket to Stowmarket (September 3rd) The second day stays in Suffolk for a 169.3km circuit race, starting and finishing in Stowmarket. This stage will be a battle between the sprinters and the punchy attackers looking to shake up the field on the rolling roads.
- Stage 3: Milton Keynes to Ampthill (September 4th) The peloton heads inland for a 122.8km leg from Milton Keynes to Ampthill. The relatively short distance could make for aggressive racing and a thrilling finale in Central Bedfordshire.
- Stage 4: Atherstone to Burton Dassett Hills Country Park (September 5th) This is the longest and most likely the most decisive stage of the race at 186.9km. Starting in Atherstone, the route takes in all five districts and boroughs of Warwickshire and features six categorised climbs. The day culminates with a spectacular hilltop finish atop Burton Dassett Hills, a climb that has decided the race in previous editions.
- Stage 5: Pontypool to The Tumble (September 6th) The riders take on the first of two challenging stages in Wales, with a 138.4km route that starts in Pontypool and features a summit finish on the iconic climb of The Tumble. This steep ascent will be a major test for the General Classification contenders.
- Stage 6: Newport to Cardiff (September 7th) The final stage is a 122.4km journey from Newport to the Welsh capital, Cardiff. While the day features more hills, it’s expected to finish with a circuit race that will likely end in a final sprint showdown on the streets of Cardiff.
Where to Watch: Picking Your Perfect Spectator Spot
Being roadside for the Tour of Britain is an incredible experience, offering free access to one of the world’s greatest sporting spectacles.
- The Start/Finish Lines: These are the most exciting, but also the most crowded. Arrive early to secure a good spot. You’ll see the team buses, riders warming up, and the thrilling sprint or final time trial effort.
- Mountain Climbs: This is where the legends are made! Find a spot on a steep gradient to witness the agony and ecstasy of the riders. The atmosphere here is electric, with fans cheering every rider on. Bring a picnic, enjoy the carnival atmosphere, and prepare for a long but rewarding wait.
- Top Tip: Always check official road closures and spectator access points well in advance. The official Tour of Britain website and local tourist office websites are invaluable resources.
How to Travel: Following the Peloton
- Car: A car offers the most flexibility, allowing you to follow the race over several stages. However, be aware of extensive road closures on race days. Parking can be a significant challenge, especially in rural areas and at finish lines. Plan your approach well in advance, and be prepared to park miles away and walk to your desired viewing spot.
- Train: The UK has an excellent train network. This is a great option for reaching start/finish cities or larger towns near the route. You can then use local transport or cycle to the roadside. Booking tickets in advance is essential.
- Cycling: For the true cycling enthusiast, cycling to a viewing spot on a mountain pass is part of the tradition! Many roads are closed to cars hours before the peloton arrives, allowing cyclists to ride up. Just remember to pack supplies and be respectful of other spectators.
Navigating Road Closures: This is the biggest challenge for spectators. Roads along the route close hours before the peloton arrives and remain closed for a while after. Always check the official Tour of Britain website or local authorities for specific closure times for your chosen stage.
Where to Stay: Your Base Camp for the Tour
Accommodation fills up incredibly fast along the route, so booking early is crucial.
- Stay in a Host City: If you want to experience the full spectacle of a Grand Départ or a stage finish, book accommodation directly in that city. Be prepared for higher prices and limited availability.
- Stay in Nearby Towns: A more budget-friendly and often less chaotic option is to base yourself in a town a short drive or train ride from the stage route. This allows you to easily access the route for a day, then retreat to a quieter base.
- Rural Cottages/B&Bs: For those following mountain stages, a charming cottage or B&B in a nearby village can offer an authentic British experience and easier access to the climbs (though expect some walking or cycling to your chosen spot!).
The 2025 Tour of Britain promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Great Britain. With a bit of planning and an adventurous spirit, you can be part of cycling history.
Are you planning to follow the Tour of Britain this year? Let us know which stages you’re hoping to catch in the comments below or read more on the official Tour of Britain website.
Last Updated on August 31, 2025 by Sports Tourist
