Plan your day
Watching a stage of the Tour de France is free, but the race passes any given point in seconds, so a little planning turns a glimpse into a great day out. Here is how to make the most of the Lancashire stage.
Confirmed and still to come. The date, the corridor and the finish are confirmed. Exact road closures, official fan zones, timings and the detailed route map are set by the organisers and local councils and published closer to the race. Always check official sources on the day: this page is guidance, not a substitute for race-day announcements.
Six things to know before race day
Watch on a climb
The riders are slowest, and the atmosphere is biggest, on the categorised climbs. The Côte de Jubilee Tower above Lancaster and the Bowland fells are the natural grandstands of the day.
Arrive very early
Roads on the route close hours before the race and reopen only once it has passed. Get to your spot in the morning, settle in, and treat it as a picnic day, not a quick stop.
Expect road closures
Large stretches of the route and its approaches will be shut to traffic. Plan to park well back and walk in, or use rail and park-and-ride where offered.
Come for the build-up
A publicity caravan and support vehicles usually pass well before the riders, so the roadside show starts long before the peloton arrives. It is part of the fun.
Pack for a Lancashire day
Sun cream and a hat, waterproofs and layers, all in one bag. Bring water, food, a fully charged phone, and cash in case signal is patchy on the fells.
Leave no trace
Take your litter home, keep gateways and driveways clear, follow marshals, and keep dogs and children back from the road. The route runs through farmland and villages.
With children
- Town-centre spots and Morecambe's flat promenade suit prams and small legs
- Bring something to sit on and plenty of snacks for the wait
- Make a game of the caravan and the team cars before the riders come
Accessible viewing
- Level, surfaced spots in the towns are easiest for wheelchairs and reduced mobility
- Check for official accessible viewing areas nearer the time
- Arrive early while kerbside space is still open
Know the route, then pick your climb
Start with the corridor and the climbs, then sort out where to stay for the weekend.