Some of the world's best cycling talent is set to ride along the streets of Suffolk this October for the return of the Women's Tour.

It is the sixth time that the county has hosted the tour in its seven-year history.


When will the race take place?

This year, Suffolk will play host to the final stage of the race on Saturday, October 9.


What's the Suffolk route for this year's tour?

The Suffolk stage of the race will be 155km long and will stretch between Haverhill and Felixstowe.

The peloton will head from Haverhill, past Melford Hall and through Sudbury, before passing along the runway at Wattisham Flying Station.

The riders will then head through areas like Stowmarket, Wickham Market and Woodbridge, before heading south towards the finish line adjacent to Felixstowe beach.

Stowmarket Mercury: This year's Women's Tour mapThis year's Women's Tour map (Image: The Women's Tour)


Will the tour pass through Essex?

The day before the tour reaches Suffolk, it will also head through north Essex.

Starting at Colchester’s Northern Gateway Sports Park, riders will complete a lap of the venue’s closed road cycle circuit before heading into Colchester town centre.

The peloton will pass through the finish line on Clacton seafront after just 32km, before completing a 63.5-kilometre loop via Holland-on-Sea, Thorpe-le-Soken and Manningtree.

Stowmarket Mercury: The Women's Tour will also be passing through Essex this OctoberThe Women's Tour will also be passing through Essex this October (Image: The Women's Tour)

What benefit will the tour have on the economy?

Suffolk's six previous stages delivered a net economic impact of more than £5.3million for the county’s economy.

Derek Davis, Babergh District Council’s cabinet member for communities said: “It’s fantastic news that our district will play a part in the final of a renowned national sporting event – showcasing the history and beauty of Babergh to everyone following the race.

“I am also delighted that Wattisham Flying Station features in this year’s route – reflecting the importance of our county’s military community.

“Like many, I can’t wait to watch on the day, and I’d encourage all our communities to come out in force and cheer on some of the world’s top cyclists.”

Harry Richardson, Mid Suffolk District Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing said: “We had a fantastic turnout when Stowmarket was selected to host the stage finish in 2019 and I hope we’ll see this again when we have the honour of welcoming back riders in October.

“I know that many Mid Suffolk residents will not only want to show their support for the race but will also be inspired to take up cycling themselves.

"This is a great way to improve health and wellbeing and those looking to start riding, or get back in the saddle, can find advice on the Keep Moving Suffolk website.”

Mick Bennett, Women’s Tour race director, said: “We are all set for what promises to be another memorable edition of the Women’s Tour.

“From our first-ever individual time trial in Warwickshire, an innovative stage in Walsall, potential for crosswinds en route to the finishes in Southend and Clacton, plus the bonus seconds that line the route from Oxfordshire to Suffolk, there are plenty of opportunities for the race to come alive.”