All the activities taking place in Lowestoft and Felixstowe for the last stage of the Tour of Britain
As the Tour of Britain returns to Suffolk today, activities for spectators are planned for the east of the county.
Thousands are expected to flock to the final stage of the world-class event, which kicks off from Lowestoft at around 10.30am, passing through Beccles, Bungay, Halesworth, Framlingham, and Saxmundham.
The riders will then make their way along the Suffolk coast between Thorpeness and Aldeburgh, before the race continues through Snape, Wickham Market, Kesgrave, and Martlesham, finishing in Sea Road, Felixstowe, at around 2pm.
To mark the event, residents and visitors are invited to join activities taking place at the start and finish lines.
Here’s a rundown of some of the activities taking place in Lowestoft and Felixstowe.
Lowestoft:
A day of celebrations, including live entertainment and workshops, will begin outside the East Point Pavilion from 9am as the teams gather for their departure later in the morning.
From there, the cyclists will make their way along the promenade to Claremont Pier before heading out on to the road for the final stage.
BMX pump track:
Among today’s activities will be the BMX pump track – perfect for adrenalin seekers and cycling enthusiasts.
The track is open for seasoned riders and beginners of all age groups.
Workshop:
First Light Festival, National Literacy Trust and Books and Prints will host interactive educational and creative workshops.
This session will include a ‘make your own’ cycle print workshop and is ideal for those looking to explore varied art forms, literature and creativity.
Live music and food:
The Royal Green will serve as a spot for live music, including performances from John and Lynne War, The Austin Beats, The High Points and the Lowestoft Longshoremen.
There will also be a live DJ inside the East Point Pavillion.
The pavilion will be serving street food and beverages until 3pm.
Felixstowe:
Nearly 50 miles down the Suffolk coast, the Love Felixstowe festival will be well under way, having kicked off on Friday.
Supported by East Suffolk Council, Felixstowe Business Improvement District (BID) and the town council, the festival is an annul celebration.
Events will be taking place by the beachside ahead of cyclists arriving at the finish line at about 2pm.
The team buses will start arriving from mid-afternoon and will be located in Undercliff Road West, where they will wait for the riders to come in.
Visitors can head to the promenade in the morning to cheer on the Felixstowe Road Runners, who will start their annual Coastal 10 run at 9.15am.
The festival itself will begin from 10am with family fun, including circus entertainers, arts and craft and games.
There will also be a chance to have your bike repaired at one of the stalls by the beachside.
For those wanting to watch the final stage of the men’s tour as it starts from Lowestoft, there will be big screens at the Felixstowe Tour Village, which can be found at the Beachside Events Area.
Day three of the festival will end with the screening of Barbie at 5pm.
Grab some food, bring a blanket and a camping seat and come and enjoy a movie by the sea.
Food and drink will be available from The Alex and the Greenhouse Café.
To ensure you can enjoy the day without any hiccups, here’s a list of all the road closures and parking suspensions across East Suffolk.
Cllr Seamus Bennett, East Suffolk’s assistant cabinet member and Felixstowe ward councillor, said: “Many towns are organising community activities for residents to get involved in.
“There’s also an exciting programme of activities taking place at the start in Lowestoft and finish in Felixstowe.
‘I’m really looking forward to joining in myself and warmly invite everyone to come out and get involved or just watch, cheer and show their support for the race.”
