Crowds Gather Across Cumbria As Tour Of Britain Women Comes To The Region.

Thousands of cycling fans gathered across Cumbria as the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women passed through communities across the county, creating a lively atmosphere along the route.

The opening stage of the race took place on Wednesday, August 19, starting and finishing in Cockermouth. The challenging 158.9 kilometre route took riders through a number of communities across west and north Cumberland, including Whitehaven, Workington, Maryport, Allonby, Silloth, Wigton, Caldbeck and Aspatria.

Large crowds lined the roads throughout the day to watch some of the world's leading female cyclists compete on Cumbria's roads. The event also provided an opportunity to showcase the region to visitors and promote its links with cycling and tourism.

Dutch rider Lorena Wiebes claimed victory in the opening stage sprint and became the first rider to wear the race leader's jersey. Italy's Chiara Consonni finished second, while Britain's Josie Nelson took third place.

The event was delivered as part of a partnership between British Cycling and Cumberland Council, aimed at strengthening cycling and tourism links across the region. Cumbria Combined Authority also supported the event.

The Tour of Britain Women marked the first time the race had visited Cumbria, giving residents and visitors the chance to see elite cycling close to home. The crowds and atmosphere generated by the event have also added to growing excitement ahead of the Tour de France Grand Départ, which is due to arrive in the region in 2027.

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