Could the Tour de France Grand Départ change how Britain cycles?

The 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ will take place in Edinburgh on 2 July, followed by the Tour de France Femmes starting in Leeds later that month. This marks the second time the UK will host the prestigious cycling event, following the 2014 Grand Départ in Yorkshire, which significantly boosted cycling participation across Britain. Organisers are now aiming to build on that legacy by using the event to encourage more people to cycle, with a particular focus on social impact and community engagement throughout the host nations. A key initiative supporting this ambition is the JOY social impact programme, which seeks to address inactivity and improve mental health by promoting cycling as a means for communities to thrive. Scottish organisers have already begun extensive outreach, with Victoria Leiper, the Social Impact Lead, engaging local groups and authorities along the Tour’s route. Several projects are underway, including funding to develop track cycling and BMX skills among disadvantaged youth in Glasgow, and a programme designed to support perimenopausal and menopausal women through cycling and social connection. Additionally, a French language project aims to counter declining language learning in Scotland, all backed by a £1 million investment from the Scottish government. In Wales, cycling development faces greater challenges due to limited funding. Beicio Cymru is working on programmes to encourage girls aged 7 to 11 to take up cycling and to introduce a nationwide Learn to Ride initiative for children, especially in deprived areas where bike ownership and cycling skills are low. Ffion James, Beicio Cymru’s National Development Officer, emphasises the importance of cycling as a life skill comparable to swimming and hopes that the Tour’s presence will inspire greater participation. However, the expansion of these initiatives depends heavily on securing additional financial support. The lasting impact of major sporting events on local cycling culture is well illustrated by Glasgow’s experience following the 2014 Commonwealth Games. There, a cycling festival evolved into Women on Wheels, a social enterprise supporting women and refugees, demonstrating how such events can foster sustainable community-led programmes. Organisers hope to replicate and expand this model with the 2027 Tour de France, encouraging communities to develop their own cycling activities and festivals that endure beyond the event itself. The Grand Départ is thus seen not only as a sporting spectacle but as a catalyst for long-term social and health benefits across Britain.