The Tour of Britain’s Grand Départ is taking place in Altrincham on Sunday 3rd September.
The race, the UK's biggest and most prestigious professional cycle race and the country's largest free-to-spectate sporting event, is returning to the town for the first time since 2019.
Altrincham is hosting the start of the first stage of the race, which crosses Greater Manchester and finishes on Deansgate in the city centre.
The Grand Départ will happen on Market Street at 11.45am, with the build-up around the town starting much earlier as spectators gather to get the best vantage points on Kingsway, Stamford Street, Stamford New Road, Railway Street and Ashley Road.
Activities around the town
Trafford Council and Altrincham Business Improvement District, who produce Visit Altrincham, have put together cycle related activity and entertainment for spectators.
The ‘Visit Altrincham’ stand will be on George Street, providing visitors with information about the town, the best vantage points and where activity is taking place.
Dr Bike will be on Central Way and in the Stamford Quarter with free bike repairs and checks.
There will be chance to try adapted bikes including trikes and e-bikes with Wheels for All on Cross Street as well as e-cargo bikes with Manchester Bikes, and a BMX trail course with Access Sports.
You will also be able to make your own smoothie by pedal power with Bikeability in the Stamford Quarter.
Cafes and restaurants opening early
Many of Altrincham’s cafés and restaurants are opening early to serve pre-race breakfast and brunch.
These include Gran T’s Coffee House, California Coffee & Wine, Damò, West Beverly, Leanne’s Vintage Tearoom and more.
There are also some special offers for spectators including 50% off match tickets for Altrincham FC v Hartlepool United, an introductory offer from the Massage Company and 30% off Cannondale road and gravel bikes at Stamford Cycle Co.
Some of Altrincham’s businesses are taking part in a ‘Bike Themed Window Competition’ and there is an opportunity for children and teens to design their own race jersey with a chance to win a place at Sew Creative’s sewing Holiday Club in October.
Pick up an entry sheet from Sew Creative, Bar Etna, Everyman Altrincham and Café Nerd or download here.
Mandy White, Altrincham’s BID Manager, said: “This is an incredible opportunity for Altrincham and there will be many thousands of spectators along the route with international media in the town on the day.
"We want to encourage visitors to come into Altrincham to celebrate and support the cyclists as they set-off on the first leg of the Tour of Britain and to enjoy all the amazing shops, award-winning Market and the town’s fabulous cafés, bars and restaurants. It’s incredible that Altrincham is once again hosting such a high-profile sporting event!”
