With just 40 days to go until the big event, Glasgow Life, in partnership with the Tour of Britain has announced the route which the Tour of Britain Grand Depart will take through the city on Sunday 4 September.

On Sunday 4 September, the Tour of Britain Grand Depart will see some of the best teams and riders in the world starting the race from Glasgow’s George Square at 11.30am.

The route of the Glasgow circuit will include Montrose Street, Glasgow Green and Glassford Street before passing back through George Square and taking in Argyle Street and Buchanan Street with racing then commencing on George Street.

Riders will then tackle the opening Yodel Sprint on Clyde Street after around five kilometres of racing, shortly before turning left at Bridge Street and crossing the River Clyde to head south out of the city. The riders will cross the finishing line in Castle Douglas, Dumfries & Galloway, following a 161km journey which will also take in parts of East Ayrshire.

Following the departure of the Tour of Britain riders, members of the public will have the opportunity to ride on sections of the route between 1.30-5pm.

Sky Ride is returning to Glasgow for the last time, and will let cyclists follow in the tracks of the Tour of Britain teams, cycling on a traffic-free circuit through the city centre.

There will also be plenty of free activities such as cycling game shows, photo booths and a ‘Tricks & Tunes’ area – and all participants are entitled to a free expert bike check worth £14.99 at Halfords.

For more information, and to sign up for Sky Ride Glasgow, please click here.

Councillor Archie Graham OBE, Depute Leader of Glasgow City Council and Chair of Glasgow Life, said: “In just over a month, the very best riders and teams from across the world will be making their way to Glasgow to take part in the Tour of Britain Grand Depart.

“Glasgow is one of the top five sporting cities in the world, and it will be really special to see our city centre transformed by cyclists and spectators alike.

“We are very proud to host this stage of the race, and I can’t wait to see the action kick off from George Square – and to continue throughout the day with Sky Ride Glasgow.”

Commenting on the announcement, Tour of Britain Race Director Mick Bennett said; “The Glasgow Grand Depart is a fantastic opportunity for cycling fans to get up close to the world’s top riders as they prepare to start this year’s Tour of Britain.

“Starting the Tour of Britain in Glasgow with a circuit presents a great chance to not only see the race twice but also for people to then get on their bike and experience riding on this wonderful traffic free circuit.”

Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland’s Director of Events, said: “We are delighted to support this year’s Tour of Britain through the EventScotland International Funding Programme, and look forward to what promises to be a very special occasion as the riders push off from Glasgow.

“With the prospect of seeing some of the world’s finest cyclists in action, I’m sure spectators will turn out in force at George Square to join in with festivities on the day, as well as showing their support all along the route to Castle Douglas.”

David Bourque, British Cycling’s Director of Recreation and Partnerships: said: “We are delighted to once again bring a big traffic-free cycling event to Glasgow in 2016. It doesn’t matter how old you are, how old your bike is, or how fast you ride – at Sky Ride Glasgow it’s all about getting on your bike and having fun.” 

In addition to Sky Ride, British Cycling will continue to work with Glasgow Life on behalf of Glasgow City Council to offer lots more cycling opportunities in 2016 with Sky Ride Local, local guided rides; Ride Social, a great way to buddy up and ride with like-minded cyclists; Breeze bike rides for women; and Go-Ride, British Cycling’s development programme for children.

You can view the map of the Tour of Britain Stage One route through Glasgow below, or download it here.

Don’t forget Glasgow hosts the UCI Track World Cup this November, for more information and for tickets please click here.