Funding for North Yorkshire communities on the 2026 Lloyds Tour of Britain route has been announced, as the full course for the penultimate stage is announced.
The fourth men’s race stage will begin in Helmsley in the North York Moors, before heading through Easingwold, Boroughbridge and Ripon, taking in a mix of fast roads and rolling terrain.
From there, riders will enter the Yorkshire Dales, tackling a series of challenging climbs, including a demanding ascent out of Pateley Bridge, before continuing through Buckden and Aysgarth.
A final test at Grinton is expected to set up a dramatic finish in Leyburn, which will host a stage finish of the race for the first time.
Featuring around 2,700 metres of ascent, organisers have described the North Yorkshire stage as the toughest of the 2026 men’s race, designed to highlight both the county’s varied terrain and its scenic backdrop for millions of television viewers.
Alongside the route announcement, communities along the course are being invited to apply for funding to help celebrate the event and maximise its impact locally.
The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority is making money available through a Mayoral Community Grant scheme, with town and parish councils along the route able to apply for up to £500.
Larger awards of up to £2,000 will be available for host locations Helmsley and Leyburn.
The funding can be used for decorations, community events, or activities designed to bring residents together on race day, as well as to showcase local identity to visitors lining the route.
Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith, said the race represents a major opportunity for the region, both in terms of economic impact and community pride, pointing to previous editions generating tens of millions of pounds for host areas.
He said the grants would help communities “celebrate this fantastic event, bring residents together and showcase the unique character, hospitality and pride” of towns and villages across the county.
The route has been developed in partnership with British Cycling and North Yorkshire Council, with organisers highlighting the mix of challenging climbs and spectacular scenery.
Cllr Carl Les, leader of North Yorkshire Council, said the stage would provide a “marvellous opportunity” for communities to come together and promote the county on a national and international stage.
National park representatives also welcomed the announcement, with the North York Moors National Park Authority and Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority both highlighting the chance to showcase their landscapes to a global audience.
The race will take place on Saturday, September 5, with thousands of spectators expected to line the route.
Cycling fans will also be able to ride the same roads ahead of the professional race through the Ride the Route Sportive on Sunday, August 30, starting from Thirsk Racecourse with three distance options.
Entries open at 10am on Friday, July 3 via British Cycling Tour of Britain Ride the Route
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