British Tour to bring tourism boost to county

The 2025 Lloyds Tour of Britain is the third time it will visit Warwickshire

The 2025 Lloyds Tour of Britain could "write a new chapter" for tourism in Warwickshire, a council leader has said.

For a third time, the UK's biggest road cycling race will visit the county, starting on 5 September.

Cyclists will begin the race in Atherstone town centre, before travelling 116.2 miles through the county's five districts, and finishing with three 700-metre climbs at Burton Dassett Hills Country Park.

George Finch, leader of Warwickshire County Council, said having the tour is a "massive coup".

"What a thrill to see some of the world's finest riders race through Warwickshire's stunning countryside, showcasing the county's intriguing history, heritage and many points of interest along the way," he said.

"Warwickshire is famed internationally for its medieval castles, picturesque market towns and for being the birthplace of celebrated authors William Shakespeare and George Eliot.

"We want this event to write a new chapter in the story of Warwickshire and to spotlight parts of the country that might not be as well known to people from other parts of the UK, and indeed the world," he added.

The Tour will start in Suffolk on 2 September and conclude five days later in Cardiff, in homage to former Tour de France winner and two-time Olympic champion Geraint Thomas, who will retire after the race.

It will pass through North Warwickshire, Nuneaton, Rugby, Stratford and Warwick.

Darren Tosh, operations and marketing director at Warwickshire's tourist board Shakespeare's England, said: "While hosting such a prestigious event will provide an added boost to tourism businesses, the legacy of the Tour's visit here will extend well beyond the finish line as it has so much potential to inspire others to explore our beautiful county by bike, while supporting our long-term commitment to encouraging sustainable travel."