Lancaster to host major new cycle race

The final preparations are underway for the first-ever Lancaster Grand Prix, which will see a field of up to 140 top class cyclists tackle a gruelling route through the beautiful countryside of the Forest of Bowland.

Starting and finishing at the iconic Ashton Memorial in Williamson Park, the race takes place on Sunday June 9 and is part of British Cycling’s HSBC UK | National Road Series.

Starting at 10am, the Lancaster Grand Prix will see riders leave Williamson Park on a course that will take them on a 100 mile journey through the Forest of Bowland AONB, passing through the estates of the Duchy of Lancaster and the Duke of Westminster's Abbeystead Estate.

From the start line competitors will ride out through Quernmore and then towards Dolphinholme for seven laps of a circuit taking in Marshaw and Abbeystead. 

There will also be a sprint each lap at Hawthornthwaite Fell for the honour of being crowned King of the Mountains.

Due to the hilly nature of the course, riders will gain 2,673 metres (8,769 feet) of elevation over 100 miles of racing, making it a demanding test for even the toughest competitor.

Spectators are encouraged to come along to celebrate the occasion and watch the action unfold. For those wanting to catch the start and finish at Williamson Park, there will be plenty to enjoy throughout the day.

Entertainment will include music provided by Skiddle, food stalls, a bouncy castle (weather dependant), face painter, and stalls promoting healthy lifestyles.

For those wanting to watch the riders battling it out on the course, there are a number of suggested vantage points: 

•    King of the Mountains Sprint at Hawthornthwaite Fell
•    Cow's Mouth Hill 
•    Marshaw 
•    Abbeystead Village 
•    Dolphinholme Village 
•    Conder Bottoms (summit)
•    Williamson Park (finish) 

A map of the route is available on the Lancaster Grand Prix page.

The first rider is expected to cross the finish line at around 2.30pm.

The race is promoted by the Lune Racing Cycling Club, in association with British Cycling, Lancaster City Council and Lancashire County Council.

It has been organised as the perfect way to showcase the Lancaster district’s beautiful and varied landscapes, while also benefiting the district’s economy.

Last updated: 21 May 2019