A North Yorkshire town is preparing to welcome some of the world's top cyclists as a famous stage race returns, bringing national attention and a day of celebrations for residents and visitors alike.
Helmsley will take centre stage on Saturday, September 5, as the starting point for the penultimate stage of the 2026 Lloyds Tour of Britain, marking the second time the race has visited the town in four years.
Ellie Hook, manager of the Howardian Hills National Landscape, said: "A big screen will show the entire race so bring a chair and get comfortable.
"Plus there will be live music, street theatre, pump bike trail and competitions, all designed to make it a tremendous day out for residents and visitors alike."
Helmsley Market Place
(Image: TONY BARTHOLOMEW)
The 165km stage will see around 100 elite cyclists from approximately 18 teams from across the globe race from Helmsley to Leyburn, passing through Ampleforth, Newburgh Priory and Oulston in the Howardian Hills.
A full day of entertainment will run alongside the race, organised by the Heart of Helmsley project to mark its official launch.
The £204,000 scheme, supported by £149,150 from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority's (YNYCA) Mayoral High Street Fund, aims to improve facilities and accessibility in the town over the next 16 months.
She said: "The race departure is the start of a journey for everyone.
"The Heart of Helmsley project will support grassroots projects and fittingly one of these is the move to create a scenic cycle and multi-user trail on the old Helmsley railway line."
Barriers will be installed around Market Square the evening before the race, and some road closures will be in place on September 5.
Parking will re-open once the Heart of Helmsley event finishes at 3.30pm.
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Carolyn Frank of Libby Butler Jewellers, who helped secure Heart of Helmsley funding, said: "Helmsley is famous for its warm welcome and residents and businesses are looking forward to this special fun day with the combined Tour of Britain race and kick off for the Heart of Helmsley project.
"Both show off our vibrant town and community spirit."
The race last visited Helmsley in 2022, helping raise the town's profile across the UK.