Tour of Britain: Suffolk stage route revealed

Tour of Britain cyclists whizzing through Framlingham during last year's men's race

The route of the final stage of this year's Tour of Britain has been revealed, with more than 100 of the world's fastest cyclists pedalling through the Suffolk countryside.

The Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain Men will conclude in the east of the county on 8 September, following a 98.5-mile (158.5km) wheel-to-wheel battle between Lowestoft and Felixstowe.

Starting in the Scottish Borders, the final stage of the six-day race will include three intermediate sprints at Beccles, Aldeburgh and Grundisburgh.

During the grand finale of the six-day contest, three intermediate sprints will thrill crowds at Beccles, Aldeburgh, and Grundisburgh.

Setting off at 10:30 BST from Lowestoft’s promenade, the international riders are expected to cross the finish line in Sea Road, Felixstowe, between 14:08 and 14:53.

This is the 98.5-mile (158.5km) route the Tour of Britain Men's race will take through Suffolk

Cyclists will find themselves snaking through Bungay, Framlingham, Saxmundham and Thorpeness during the first half of the race.

The second half will take in Snape, Wickham Market, Kesgrave and Martlesham, before the cyclists cross the finish line at Sea Road, Felixstowe.

Seamus Bennett, East Suffolk Council's assistant cabinet member, said he was proud the area would host the final stage of the race for the first time.

"This is wonderful for the district as national sporting events such as this bring huge benefits to the area," he added.

“The race will pass through many of our market towns, giving residents, businesses and visitors the chance to enjoy the event from a wide range of locations.

"We are working hard to ensure there is an exciting programme of activity, as well as encouraging residents and businesses along the route to get involved and show their support for the race."

Cyclist Wout van Aert (pictured) crossed the line first in Felixstowe in 2023

Race director Rod Ellingworth said the final stage in Suffolk would be "deceptive" for the riders and pose "plenty of challenges".

He said: "Suffolk has always provided great racing in the tour, and this year will be no different.

"The three intermediate sprints will ensure competitive racing thanks to the time bonuses on offer, which could become very important."