The Tour of Britain event finally arrives in Cumbria today, with the participants cycling up and down the county on the way to the finish line in Gateshead.

World Championship winner Mark Cavendish has a lot of work to do, the Isle of Man-based cyclist is currently 74th in the Tour standings. Currently at the top of the leader board is London’s Ethan Hayter.

There is also some local interest in the race as Penrith’s Mark Donovan takes part, he is currently 9th in the standings.

Managing Director of Cumbria Tourism, Gill Haigh, said: “What makes this year particularly special for viewers and visitors watching Stage 6 of the cycle race is they will be treated to the dramatic contrasts of the historic border city of Carlisle and Eden, an area that boasts the spectacular lake and mountains of Ullswater, Penrith and the moorlands of the North Pennines.

"Cumbria is the natural home of outdoor adventure, and we know that, now more than ever, wide open spaces are essential for people’s physical and mental wellbeing.”

“It’s fantastic to have the Tour of Britain return once again in Cumbria” says Vice Chair of Cumbria Tourism, Dan Visser. “The route showcases many hidden gems of our fascinating county.

"Cumbria and the Lake District were made for cycling and this year the Tour traces parts of the UK's most popular challenge cycle route the Sea to Sea (C2C) from Whitehaven to Newcastle.

Junction 66 of the A1 (Gateshead South) will be closed to all traffic on race day. Vehicles should use junction 67 to access the finish. Due to Covid regulations, there is no spectator access to the team paddock at stage starts and finishes.

Gill Haigh added: “Sustainable travel is one of our key priorities, both within the Lake District National Park and wider county and we look forward to visitors being inspired by the Tour to enjoy days out on bike, boat, bus and train.

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