The Tour de France 2027 in Scotland

Edinburgh to Carlisle 

The race gets off to an exhilarating start in the heart of Edinburgh and heads south through the rolling landscapes of the Scottish Borders. From the first cermonial flag drop, witness a riveting spectacle as the riders shoot off, team cars in convoy. With around 184 km ahead, riders face a scenic ride through sweeping terrain, with wide-open views, quiet roads and long, bracing climbs.

For spectators, this stage offers an unfogettable initiation into this legendary race. You can soak up the buzzing atmosphere of the Grand Départ in the capital before following the route into the countryside, where the pace is fast and the setting more relaxed. The final stretch into Carlisle sees the terrain flatten out and the pace swiften as riders gear up for the thrilling sprint finish and the chance to secure the first coveted Yellow Jersey of the race.

Find out more about The Tour de France – Grande Depart Grand Bretagne 2027 

Frequently asked questions - Scottish Borders Council

Innerleithen and the Tweed Valley – World-class cycling country

As the race pushes deeper into the Scottish Borders, the scenery opens out into quieter, more rural landscapes. Around Innerleithen  and the Tweed Valley, you’re in the heart of some of Scotland’s most celebrated riding terrain; a place where forest trails, undulating hills and traffic-free roads lure cyclists from across the UK and beyond.

This is undoubtedly world-class cycling country. Spend part of the day at the 7stanes trail centres, including Glentress Forest and Innerleithen, offer everything from gently menadering beginner routes to adrenaline-pumping technical downhill tracks.

The Tweed Valley is no stranger to major cycling events either, with many international mountain biking competitions held here over the years, making it a natural backdrop to the world's premier cycling competiton. There are many outdoor adventures to be had in the Tweed Valley, including cycling. But there's also plenty to explore if want to take a break form being in the sadddle. Check out Peebles with its excellent food and drink offering, venture inside Traquair House, or pay a visit to the Dawyk Botanic Garden in full bloom. 

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Learn more about the Scottish Borders 

Plan your own cycling tour of South of Scotland – Scotland Starts Here 

Hawick and the southern Borders – The final stretch 

Further south, the last section of the Scottish route passes through Hawick and more secluded parts of the Borders, including areas around Newcastleton near the Scottish border. 

This is where the crowds begin to thin and the scenery takes centre stage. If you’re looking for a gentler viewing experience, these quieter roads offer space to watch the race unfold against a backdrop of bucolic hills and big skies. Like many towns across the Borders, Hawick and Newcastleton are steeped in textile heritage, with heaps independent shops, local makers and welcoming places to explore. Take the time to enjoy a coffee or regional delicacy in this charming corner of south Scotland as this high-octane chapter of the Tour de France comes to a close.

Discover the creative heritage of South Scotland – Scotland Starts Here

Explore food and drink in South Scotland – Scotland Starts Here