Tour of Britain in Suffolk: What you need to know

Cyclist Wout van Aert is pictured crossing the final stage finish line of the Tour of Britain in 2023, which he won. He is wearing a yellow and black cycling suit while riding his yellow bike.Image source, SWpix.com
Image caption,

Wout van Aert, from Belgium, 2023's overall winner, crossing the finish line in Felixstowe

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Over 100 of the world's top cyclists will be racing through the streets of Suffolk as the Tour of Britain reaches the county.

The six-day 2024 Tour of Britain Men, external ends on Sunday with a final stage from Lowestoft to Felixstowe.

After setting off in the Scottish Borders on Tuesday, the riders have gone wheel-to-wheel through County Durham, Yorkshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Northamptonshire.

But what can you expect for the sixth and final stage in Suffolk?

When and where does the final stage of the race begin?

It starts on Lowestoft's promenade at 11:00 BST. Cycle fans are expected to gather on Royal Green from 09:00 BST.

The competing teams will be on the podium being presented to the crowd between 09:50 BST and 10:50 BST.

What is the route?

Image source, Tour of Britain
Image caption,

During the grand finale of the six-day contest, there will be three intermediate sprints at Beccles, Aldeburgh, and Grundisburgh

The route through Suffolk is 98.5 miles (158km).

After setting off from Lowestoft, the riders will head inland toward Beccles and Bungay, before then heading south through Halesworth, Framlingham and Saxmundham.

The riders then turn back toward the coast to race between Thorpeness and Aldeburgh.

They pedal over to Snape, passing through Wickham Market, Kesgrave and Martlesham, before heading down Sea Road to the finish in Felixstowe.

There will be three intermediate sprints at Beccles, Aldeburgh and Grundisburgh.

The riders are expected to cross the finish line in Felixstowe between 14:33 BST and 15:28 BST.

Image source, Richard Knights/BBC
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The riders will pass under this banner as they begin their race to Felixstowe

What road closures will be in place?

East Suffolk Council has announced a number of road closures for the event.

The full list has been published on the council's website., external

There will also be a rolling road closure on the route for about 15 minutes before the estimated time of the riders' arrival until approximately 10 minutes after the last rider has passed.

There are parking restrictions. Some short-stay car parks have been temporarily turned into long-stay to help residents affected.

Parking information can also be found on the council's website.

Drivers have also been warned that one lane has been closed on the westbound carriageway of the A14 Orwell Bridge due to safety concerns.

Delays are expected until repairs are carried out.

Who will be riding?

Image source, PA Media
Image caption,

Cyclists jockey for position during Tuesday's first stage in the Scottish Borders

The Great Britain Cycling Team, external is riding. Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), external has pro, world and continental teams involved.

Full lists of teams - and results from the previous stages - can be found on British Cycling's website., external

What else is happening?

Image source, SWpix.com
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Felixstowe has hosted the race in previous years

In Lowestoft, First Light Festival, external, in partnership with East Suffolk Council, has organised a day of events.

There will be a BMX pump track for riders of all ages, workshops, sport and fitness activities, local bands and food and drink stalls

In Felixstowe, Sir Mark Cavendish, one of the greatest cycling sprinters of all time will be honoured. Sir Mark will be watching the finish.

A 10km (6.2 miles) community bike ride starts and finishes from Sea Road. There is also the Richard Bennett Felixstowe Coastal 10 mile (16.09km) run.

Free bike checks will be available and there will be balance bike activities for children learning to ride.

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