Where to watch the UCI Road World Championships 2019
Yorkshire and cycling have become almost inseparable. From the sun-kissed glory of 2014’s Grand Départ to the Tour De Yorkshire that has followed every year since, it is now almost impossible to visit ‘God’s Own Country’ and not see cyclists winding through the gorgeous hills and dales.
So the news that Yorkshire is hosting the UCI Road World Championships in September 2019 is very exciting indeed. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) is the worldwide governing body for cycling, promoting the sport in its many forms for health and recreation as well as promoting its own events. And since Britain has not hosted the UCI Road World Championships since 1982, this is an event not to be missed.
Starting on 21 September with a ground-breaking para-cycling event, that also acts as a qualifier for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, the races run until 29 September and wind through some of the most majestic scenery and settings that Yorkshire has to offer. Plenty of patchwork fields, lush valleys, sweeping seascapes and beautiful towns and villages await! Here are six of the best places to see the action and soak up the scenery.
Harrogate
Each race finishes in the fashionable spa town of Harrogate. Alongside a fan zone with plenty of entertainment, the fine regency streets are filled with boutique shops, artisan eateries, perfect parkland plus plenty of places to enjoy fine food and drink – including the iconic Bettys tea room. With the Dales on your doorstep, you can get out and enjoy some of Yorkshire’s finest scenery too.
Hawes
One of the most scenic parts of the Dales – not to mention England’s highest market town – competitors in the Men’s Elite Road Race will have to work hard to enjoy their trip to Hawes. Thankfully, spectators can just enjoy the view as the road winds its way up to the town. Pay a visit to the Wensleydale Creamery afterwards; this Yorkshire attraction is a cheese lover’s dream with an amazing eatery.
Ripon
The small, scenic city of Ripon hosts several stages throughout the UCI Road World Championships. With a winning mix of historic attractions and contemporary activities, you can find winnings mix of the old and the new. Make sure you visit the beautiful Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Park when the race isn’t passing through. Incredible scenery awaits!
York
Close to Tadcaster, starting point for the Para-Cycling International on 21 September, York offers an amazing city break. History is everywhere, from the Castle Museum to the narrow streets of the Shambles. Modern day York works seamlessly with its well-preserved surroundings to cater for all tastes, and it’s the highlight of many marvellous Yorkshire holidays.
Wetherby
This fine market town on the banks of the River Wharfe will be offering a warm welcome to competitors in the Junior Women’s Road race on 27 September. With easy access from Leeds, York and Harrogate, you can enjoy the total tranquillity of Wetherby before heading to a town or city for more vibrant times.
Skipton
Not too far from Lancashire’s beautiful Forest of Bowland, the market town of Skipton allows you to experience plenty of northern England’s beauty. And with plenty of incredible eateries nestled in the market town’s surrounding scenery, you can enjoy some of its finest food too! The Men’s Elite Road Race pays a visit on 29 September, and we recommend that you join them.
