Elite cyclists will pass through Middleton when the Tour de France Femmes arrives in Greater Manchester in 2027. The route has now been confirmed, placing the town on the opening stage of the race.
Details of the 2027 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift route show riders will travel through Middleton as part of the first stage from Leeds to Manchester. The race is due to reach the borough on Friday 30 July 2027 before heading into Manchester city centre for the stage finish.
After crossing the Pennines and passing through Oldham and Rochdale, the peloton will move through Middleton town centre before heading south along Middleton Road towards Heaton Park and into Manchester. The section through Middleton forms part of the closing kilometres of the stage, which could prove decisive ahead of the finish.
The event marks the first time the women’s race will visit Britain, with Greater Manchester hosting both the opening stage finish and the second stage start. Millions of spectators are expected across the route, with local areas including Middleton likely to see large crowds.
Organisers say the event is expected to bring wider benefits beyond the race itself, including increased participation in cycling and community activity. A programme known as Joy will run alongside the event, aiming to support health, skills and community engagement across the region.
Local authorities across Greater Manchester, including Rochdale borough, are working with transport and cycling partners to prepare for the event and maximise its impact. A volunteer programme is also planned, offering opportunities for residents to take part in delivering the race.
Julie Murphy, interim chief executive of Rochdale Borough Council, said the borough was proud to be included in the route and highlighted the area’s history of hosting major cycling events. She said the race would bring excitement and encourage more people to get active.
The second stage will begin in Manchester city centre the following day before heading towards Stockport and into the Peak District on its way to Sheffield. A third stage will take place in London as a team time trial.
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