The Tour of Britain
The Tour of Britain in Suffolk
Britain’s biggest professional cycle race and the UK’s largest free-to-spectate live sporting event will return to Suffolk this September, as the opening stages of the race take place in the region on Tuesday 2nd and Wednesday 3rd September. East Suffolk will host the first stage of the race, with the return of the world’s top male cyclists to the district for a third consecutive year, as Woodbridge and Southwold play host to the stage one start and finish.
A day later the second stage of the race will start and finish in Stowmarket, hosted by Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, as two stages of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Men take place in the county for the first time.
The free-to-watch sporting spectacular features Olympic, World and Tour de France champions, and attracts a roadside audience of over 1 million spectators. Live coverage of the race is shown daily in the UK and around the world. The Lloyds Tour of Britain Men is part of the UCI ProSeries, making it one of the most prestigious sporting events in the sport’s global calendar.
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The Tour of Britain in Babergh and Mid Suffolk
The Lloyds Tour of Britain Men has passed through Babergh and Mid Suffolk on multiple occasions, but the districts have never hosted a start or finish of the men’s race.
In 2019, Stage One of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women, from Beccles, finished in Stowmarket, won by Jolien D’Hoore. More information can be found on the British Cycling website as well as the Heart of Suffolk website.
Stage Two of The Tour of Britain - Frequently Asked Questions
About the Event
What is the Tour of Britain?
The Tour of Britain is the UK’s biggest free-to-watch sporting event. It is the UK’s premier professional cycling road race, held over 6 days and attracting some of the world’s best cyclists.
When is the event being held?
The Tour of Britain is held annually in early September. Woodbridge will host the first stage on Tuesday 2 September 2025, before it moves to our districts on Wednesday 3 September.
Who organises the race?
The race is organised by British Cycling and supported by Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils.
Watching the Race
How can I watch the race?
You can watch the race anywhere along the route. There will also be an event village with a big screen next to The Regal Theatre in Stowmarket. The race will be broadcast live on ITV4.
Are there any activities or entertainment planned in the event village?
Yes, the event village near The Regal Theatre will feature stalls, entertainment, and refreshments. Details will be available on the council’s website closer to the event.
What happens if it rains?
The race will go ahead in the rain. Spectators should check the weather forecast and dress appropriately, as no shelters will be provided along the route.
What are the top tips for spectators?
Check the route and road closures in advance
Arrive early to secure a safe viewing spot
Keep children and animals away from the roadside
Do not obstruct the riders
Route and Timings
What is the route?
The full route is available on the British Cycling website: View the Route
When will the race pass through my town/village?
Estimated times of arrival (ETAs) will be published on the website. Please note these are approximate and depend on the race speed.
Where does the race start and finish?
The race starts and finishes in Stowmarket.
Can I cycle or walk along the route before or after the race?
Yes, apart from Ipswich Road. Once the race has passed and roads are reopened, you may enjoy the route. Please avoid it during the race for safety reasons.
Parking and Road Closures
Will the roads be closed?
Yes. There will be an extended road closure in Stowmarket. Elsewhere, rolling road closures will be in place for around 40 minutes as the race passes. No vehicles will be allowed on the route during this time.
Why will there be parking restrictions in my road?
To ensure the safety of riders and spectators. Notices and cones will be placed the evening before. Affected residents will receive a letter.
Where do I park my vehicle if parking is restricted in my road?
Please move your vehicle by 09.00hrs (08.00hrs in Eye and Hadleigh). Use nearby streets or public car parks. Restrictions will be lifted as soon as possible after the race.
What will happen if I don’t move my car?
You may receive a Penalty Charge Notice and your vehicle may be relocated to a safer location.
Will any car parks be closed?
Yes. Ipswich Street Car Park (The Regal Theatre) and Milton Road Car Park in Stowmarket will be closed from 06.00hrs and remain closed all day.
I am a Blue Badge holder. Am I exempt from the temporary restrictions?
No. All vehicles must be moved for safety reasons.
Will I be able to access my driveway during the road closures?
Access may be restricted if your driveway is on the race route. Please plan ahead.
What if I need to leave for work or an appointment during the closure?
Leave before the closure begins or wait until it ends. Rolling closures typically last around 40 minutes.
Will there be marshals or staff to help guide traffic and pedestrians?
Yes, marshals and event staff will be stationed at key points to assist.
How will emergency services access properties during closures?
Emergency services are fully briefed and will have access throughout the event.
Additional Information
Will there be any public transport disruptions?
Some bus routes may be diverted or delayed. Please check with your local transport provider on the day.