By Peter Omopo
The organisers of the Tour de France have unveiled the official route for the opening stage of the race’s 2027 edition, which will bring the world’s leading cyclists to Scotland next summer.
The Grand Départ will begin in Edinburgh on 2 July 2027 before heading south through Midlothian, the Scottish Borders and parts of Dumfries and Galloway, with the stage finishing in Carlisle, England.
From the Scottish capital, the peloton will travel towards Newtongrange before continuing to Innerleithen. The route then turns east to Galashiels and takes in what is expected to be the toughest climb of the day, the Côte de Melrose in the Eildon Hills. Riders will then pass through Selkirk, Hawick and Newcastleton, briefly entering Dumfries and Galloway and passing through Canonbie before crossing into England for the final stretch through Longtown and Brampton to the finish in Carlisle.
The stage is expected to attract large crowds across towns and villages along the route, offering cycling fans the chance to witness the sport’s biggest stars at close range.
Scottish rider Oscar Onley, from Kelso, is tipped to be one of the home favourites. The young cyclist, who recently signed for Ineos Grenadiers, is expected to relish racing on roads where he trained and competed while growing up.
First Minister John Swinney described the event as a “truly memorable moment” for Scotland, saying the route would showcase some of the country’s most scenic and culturally significant areas to a global audience.
He noted that communities such as Newtongrange, Galashiels and Canonbie would become part of the history of the iconic race, adding that the event presents a valuable opportunity to promote Scotland to millions of viewers worldwide.
Tour de France director Christian Prudhomme said the United Kingdom had consistently welcomed the race with “passion and pride,” adding that the chosen route reflects the beauty and diversity of Britain’s landscape.
Scottish Cycling’s head of performance and coaching, David Somerville, said the stage would be especially meaningful for Onley and fellow Scot Sean Flynn, who trained extensively on the roads included in the route during their formative years.
Local authorities along the route have welcomed the announcement, with Scottish Borders Council leader Euan Jardine describing it as an “incredible honour” to host the majority of the opening stage.
The 2027 Grand Départ is expected to draw significant crowds and international attention, marking a landmark moment for cycling in Scotland and the wider UK.
