North Yorkshire gears up for festive celebrations as Tour of Britain arrives
Communities set to welcome prestigious cycling event
Excitement is building across North Yorkshire as communities prepare to celebrate the arrival of the Tour of Britain with a series of vibrant activities.
Backed by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority's Mayoral Community Grant, along with North Yorkshire Council, funding has been allocated to towns and villages to enrich the festivities marking one of the UK's most prestigious cycling events.
The 2026 North Yorkshire stage kicks off today (Saturday, 5th September) in Helmsley and concludes in Leyburn, traversing some of the region's most challenging terrain with approximately 2,700 metres of ascent.
Cllr Carl Les, leader of North Yorkshire Council, expressed enthusiasm for the event:
“We were delighted by the positive response from communities along the route and are pleased to support towns and villages as they prepare for this exciting event.
“The Lloyds Tour of Britain is one of the biggest free-to-attend sporting events in the country, and these grants will help communities celebrate the occasion, bring people together and create a memorable experience for residents, visitors and cycling fans alike.
“It also presents a fantastic opportunity to showcase everything that makes North Yorkshire such a special place to live, work and visit.”
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, remarked on the opportunity to showcase the area globally:
“The countdown is on and the excitement is building as our communities get ready to give a special North Yorkshire welcome to the Tour of Britain.”
Communities have received £9,178 in funding, enabling them to host cycling-themed decorations, welcome banners, and organise family-friendly activities along the route.