The world’s most famous annual road cycling race, Tour de France, is coming to the UK in July 2027. Marking a significant moment in Tour de France history, both the men’s and women’s race will start in the UK – the first time both Grand Départs have taken place in the same country, outside France. And Edinburgh is the chosen location for the race’s official opening, the Grand Départ.
Taking place on Friday 02 July 2027, the world’s best cyclists will begin the 114th Tour de France from Edinburgh, before travelling through Scotland, England and Wales for 3 days of action-packed racing, before continuing in France. The exact route will be announced on the Tour De France GB website on 22 October 2026.
Tour de France Route
The Grand Départ will set off from Edinburgh’s iconic old town on 02 July 2027, travel through the city centre to the southside area, before heading into Edinburgh’s southern suburbs and onto Midlothian, the Scottish Borders and beyond.
Use the interactive map below to zoom in and see the route in detail.
Further information about the route, including future announcements of road closures and transport impact, can be found on the City of Edinburgh Council’s dedicated webpage.
Tour de France events
As part of the world’s greatest bike race coming to Scotland for the first time, an exciting programme of events will take place in Edinburgh in the days leading up to the Grand Départ.
These include a spectacular opening ceremony celebration delivered by the world famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle on the evening of Wednesday 30 June. Including the official Presentation of Riders Ceremony for the 2027 Tour de France, the ceremony will see the cyclists and their teams introduced to fans. Blending elite sport, world-class Scottish traditional arts and community participation, the ceremony will feature massed pipes and drums, a bespoke song created by Angus MacPhail of the iconic Scottish band Skippinish, and cultural showcases celebrating the best of Britain and France. Tickets go on pre-sale at midday on 23 October 2026, with general sale beginning a week later on 30 October 2026. To find out more, please visit Grand Départ 2027 Opening Ceremony.
Celebrations and activities will extend along the Royal Mile and surrounding areas, so that fans without tickets can also see the teams and riders and be part of the occasion.
This page will be updated with information on these, and more city-wide events, in the coming months.
Edinburgh – a city made from cycling
For those looking to make the most of Scotland’s capital beyond the race itself, exploring the city on two wheels offers an exciting way to see more of Edinburgh. From peaceful paths through leafy parks, to traffic-free trails connecting neighbourhoods, the city’s many cycling routes offer plenty of opportunities to explore Edinburgh at your own pace. Join a guided bike tour to uncover hidden corners, admire famous landmarks and hear fascinating local stories, or hire a bike through Voi. Currently there are 600 electric bikes (e-bikes) in and around the city centre. Simply check the locations and availability of e-bikes via the app, and make a booking.
If it’s cycling equipment, accessories or expert advice you need, all can be found at Edinburgh’s numerous cycling shops.
Find more information on getting around and enjoying your time in Edinburgh:
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