Tour of Britain 2024
Sheffield is gearing up for an exciting day of cycling as the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain race returns to the city this autumn on Thursday 5 September 2024.
South Yorkshire will host stage three of the men’s race which attracts top international cyclists, including Olympic and Tour de France champions.
A challenging route through the four regions of South Yorkshire, the stage will begin in Sheffield and then head through Rotherham and Doncaster before finishing in Barnsley.
Taking in some of South Yorkshire’s most famous, and hardest climbs, to provide a real test for the world’s top riders, the 166-kilometre (103-mile) stage will start from Arundel Gate in Sheffield City Centre, marking the first time that the race has been to the city since 2006.
Over 2,700 metres of ascent will face the riders, including categorised King of the Mountains climbs at Loxley, Oughtibridge, and Hound Hill on the outskirts of Barnsley, the summit of which comes with just four kilometres of racing remaining, and is sure to be key to the stage victory.
Thousands of residents and visitors will be able to catch a glimpse of the action as the riders race against the scenic backdrop of The Outdoor City.
Stage 3 Route
Distance 166.1km
Elevation 2,736m
From the start in Sheffield, the climbing will start almost immediately, as the race heads west, skirting the Peak District National Park with the first categorised King of the Mountains climb coming on Long Lane above Loxley within 20 kilometres of racing.
The one kilometre climb averages almost 9%, with only a short descent before the race tackles the second King of the Mountains at Oughtibridge Lane, or Jawbone Hill, a 1.7-kilometre climb averaging 9%, which was climbed by the Tour de France in 2014.
Road closures information and timings
Arundel Gate
For the safe setup of staging and barriers at the start line on Arundel Gate, the road will close at approximately 4am on the day of the race. The presentation of teams on the podium will begin at 09:50, ahead of the stage start at 11:00.
We expect Arundel gate to reopen at around 3pm, after the removal of all staging and barriers.
Rolling road closure
To manage the race safely and ensure that spectators have an enjoyable experience, a robust Traffic Management Plan has been established. The race will be managed by a rolling road closure, which means roads on and around the race route will be closed for a short period – usually about 15 to 30 minutes – as the race passes by. This will be indicated by police escort vehicles.
The route will be marked with yellow advanced warning signs in the run up to the race and members of the public will be politely asked to refrain from parking during the hours of 10:00 – 14:00 on Thursday 5 September.
Public transport
Some bus services will be diverted or suspended according to road closures. Full information about affected bus services is available at Latest news updates - Travel South Yorkshire
You can find further travel info and details here.
Key info for Spectators and Residents
Spectator Guide
Here you'll find information to help you plan your day watching the race in person or from the comfort of your home.
Information for residents
Here you'll find the official information that was sent out to residents living along or close to the Tour of Britain route in advance of the race.
Get involved
Show your support to the Tour of Britain riders!
Sheffield City Council have created an activity pack so that children, young people, families, schools and community groups can get involved in the Tour of Britain fun. The pack includes fun facts and information, a quiz and activities to help you get crafting.
Dress your fences, gardens and windows with bunting and decorations to show the riders our support and the TV cameras just how much community spirit our great city has.
Community Cycling Festival
As part of the Tour of Britain 2024 festivities, Sheffield will host an evening community cycling festival. This free event is an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to develop their skills and find out more about cycling.
Coming to Sheffield for the race?
Sheffield Cycle Tours
Sheffield Cycle Tours provides tours for cyclists who wish to learn about the history and culture of Sheffield.
Relive the spirit of Le Tour in Sheffield
Stage 2 of the 2014 Tour de France Grand Départ raced into Sheffield, along winding country roads, up infamous Sheffield hills and through the city’s streets. Retrace the route and give it a go!
Cycling in Sheffield
If you feel inspired to get cycling, there are some great resources in Sheffield to help. Below you'll find info for cycle training, bike hire and routes in and around the city...
Cycle routes and groups
There are a variety of cycling routes in and around the city, as well as cycling groups that you can join.
Cycling safety courses
Whether you're just starting or want to build more confidence, there are classes available in Sheffield to help both adults and children learn to cycle.
CycleBoost
CycleBoost is delivered by A Different Gear on behalf of Sheffield City Council. It’s aim is to promote active travel and encourage more people to replace shorter car journeys by travelling by bike.
Active Travel
The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority Active Travel Implementation Plan sets out how, by 2040, a fully connected network of walking and cycling routes will link our region, transforming communities and ensuring that people have the means and the confidence to leave their cars at home, and choose to travel on foot or by bicycle.
