Blackpool to host free family cycling festival as Tour of Britain Women comes to town - what you need to know
Everything you need to know.
Families, cyclists and spectators will have the chance to enjoy traffic-free cycling in Blackpool this week when the Lloyds Tour of Britain Family Cycling Festival takes place alongside the professional race.
The free event will be held at Solaris Park on Thursday 20 August, giving people the opportunity to ride on a closed-road circuit while some of the world’s best female cyclists compete in the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women.
The festival runs from 11am to 2pm, with participants able to complete as many or as few laps as they wish before watching the professionals race through Blackpool.
Cycling for all ages and abilities
Despite its name, the festival is not restricted to families. People of all ages and cycling abilities are welcome, whether they are regular cyclists, returning to cycling after a break or simply looking for something to do with friends and family.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own bikes. A limited number of adaptive cycles will also be available, with further information to be released when available.
The circuit will remain closed to traffic throughout the festival, allowing riders to experience the event from the saddle without sharing the road with vehicles.
There is no requirement to complete a full lap. Riders can cycle as much or as little as they want.
Organisers are encouraging participants to start and finish at the official circuit point, where they can also find out about other activities taking place during the day.
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More than just a bike ride
The Family Cycling Festival is part of the wider Lloyds Tour of Britain professional cycle races and will include a range of cycling-themed activities at the Fan Zones.
For spectators, it also offers a chance to experience the atmosphere surrounding the race and cheer on the professional riders as they pass through the town.
In Blackpool, the Tour of Britain Women riders will finish alongside the town's Promenade-based mirror ball.
The event is free to attend, whether people want to take part in the cycling, watch the race and activities, or simply enjoy the atmosphere.
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Travel disruption expected
People travelling around Blackpool on Thursday should be aware of a major road closure connected with the event.
The Promenade between Burlington Road West and Starr Gate will be closed from 5am until 11.30pm to allow the event to take place safely.
The Family Cycling Festival itself runs from 11am until 2pm at Solaris Park.
Registration is available for those who want to receive route details, event updates and information about activities taking place on the day at https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/tourofbritain/info/familycyclingfestival