Cockermouth to host opening stage of 2026 Lloyds Tour of Britain Women
Prestigious cycling event begins in Cumberland this August
Cockermouth will have the honour of hosting the first stage of the prestigious 2026 Lloyds Tour of Britain Women on 19th August, marking the beginning of a five-stage race across England and Wales.
This year's edition is part of the UCI Women’s WorldTour and will be making its debut appearance in Cumberland, with the race departing from Cockermouth and taking cyclists through Whitehaven, Workington, and Maryport before concluding back in the market town.
With a rich history of hosting cycling events, Cumbria has seen 12 previous stages of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Men and will also look forward to welcoming stages of the Tour de France Grand Départ next summer.
Cockermouth has experienced the electric atmosphere of race days twice before, hosting the men's race in 2015 and 2018.
Recent research by British Cycling highlighted the 2025 edition of the Lloyds Tours of Britain generated a cumulative economic benefit of £62.3 million to host areas, demonstrating the significant social impact these races have on local communities.
This initiative is part of a partnership between British Cycling and Cumberland Council aimed at promoting cycling and tourism links in the region.
Jonathan Day, Director of Events for British Cycling Ventures, expressed excitement about the event's return and its expansion, stating, “For the first time, there is parity in the number of stages with the men’s race, so it is a huge opportunity to create a real festival of cycling.”
Councillor Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, added, “This is proof that our area is a prime location for international events. This is a massive opportunity to showcase our west coast and inspire our communities to get active."
The full list of stages includes:
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
Further announcements regarding detailed routes will follow in the coming weeks.