Tour of Britain to return to Caerphilly County Borough

The Tour of Britain returns next month – with world-renowned cyclists racing through Caerphilly County Borough in the event’s final stage.

The annual cycling event last passed through the borough in 2023, when Caerphilly town centre hosted the stage finale.

This year’s tour gets underway in Woodbridge, Suffolk, on Tuesday September 2. The final stage, on Sunday September 7, sees cyclists travel from Newport to Cardiff, crossing the borough in the process.

The 112.2-kilometre (69.8-mile) route leaves Newport towards Risca and Crosskeys, passing through Wattsville, Cwmfelinfach and Ynysddu, before heading up towards Ebbw Vale via Pontllanfraith and Blackwood.

It then returns through Tredegar and the Sirhowy Valley before a three-kilometre climb at the midway point takes the race onto Mynydd Bedwellte and over into the Rhymney valley.

From there, it goes past Bargoed and Gelligaer Common and back through, Nelson, Ystrad Mynach, and Llanbradach, before cyclists head down to Caerphilly town.

The route then takes the cyclists up Caerphilly Mountain, before a straightforward run into Cardiff. The route finishes at Bute Park.

2018 Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas, who is from Cardiff, will be competing in the Tour of Britain this year – and it will be his final road race appearance.

Commenting on the route announcement, Caroline Spanton, CEO of Beicio Cymru, said: “Seeing the peloton pass cycling landmarks like Maindy Velodrome, and tackle climbs such as the Tumble and Caerphilly Mountain, not only tests the riders but also showcases the outstanding landscape we have for cycling in Wales.

“To have this final stage here in South Wales is a really fitting tribute to Geraint Thomas – one of Wales’ most celebrated athletes.”

Welsh Government sports minister Jack Sargeant, said the event “showcases the very best of Welsh landscapes and our passion for cycling”.

He continued: “These challenging routes promise to be a great test for some of the world’s top cyclists whilst providing a wonderful viewing experience for spectators at the many fantastic locations along both routes.”

“With a thrilling finish expected in our capital city Cardiff, this will be a fitting celebration of cycling in Wales and a wonderful send-off for Geraint Thomas in his final road race.”

He added: “I’m sure too that these stages will create lasting memories for athletes and fans alike.”

Councillor Jamie Pritchard, deputy leader of Caerphilly Council, described the event coming to the borough is “excellent” and said: “The route covers many towns and villages within the borough, bringing the event close to thousands of people.

“Large events are important and put Caerphilly on the map. We’re definitely gearing up for Sunday September 7.”