All eyes will be on Pontypool Park this Saturday, 6 September, as it hosts the start of Stage 5 of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Men – marking the town’s debut in Britain’s biggest professional cycle race.
Some of the world’s top cyclists, including current Olympic champion Remco Evenepoel and former Tour of Britain Men winner, Julian Alaphilippe, will be among 114 elite riders lining up outside the Pontypool Active Living Centre to tackle the queen stage of the tour.
Welsh legend and former winner of the Tour de France, Geraint Thomas, also makes his final Tour of Britain and professional race appearance, closing out a remarkable 19-year career in Cardiff on Sunday.
The race sets off at 11.30am from Pontypool Park, heading towards Mamhilad for a lap of Monmouthshire.
Riders will then make a first ascent of the Tumble before heading through Blaenavon and back to Pontypool between roughly 1.30pm – 2pm, offering spectators a rare opportunity to see the riders multiple times.
But the excitement isn’t just on the road, from 9am onwards, Pontypool Park spectator village will be buzzing with free activities and entertainment for all ages, including:
- Torfaen Changing Gearz – offering bike repairs, refurbished bike sales, and volunteer recruitment.
- Fusion Extreme – hosting BMX workshops on the park’s tennis courts from 9:15am to 12:30pm, giving young riders a chance to learn tricks and skills from experienced coaches.
- Torfaen Council’s Health, Sport and Fitness teams – leading calisthenics and workouts in the park and at the bandstand, getting everyone moving.
- On the Cabbage Patch, opposite the play park, little ones can try balance bikes.
- Beicio Cymru – leading a Breeze community ride from the start line, encouraging inclusive cycling for all.
- Halo Leisure – hosting an assault bike challenge, with prizes for the winners.
A range of food vendors will also be on hand, including Spudbox, Madoc Coffee, O’Connell’s Bakery and Halo Leisure’s Epicure Café.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the full programme and secure a good viewing spot.
With car parks at the Active Living Centre and Old Mill in use for competitors and officials, public transport or active travel is encouraged for spectators with parking available in nearby car parks around the town.
A rolling road closure will be in effect when the riders set out through Pontymoile park gates at 11.30am. This will be followed by a temporary full road closure from Blaenavon to Pontypool between 1.30pm and 2.30pm.
Cllr Anthony Hunt, leader of Torfaen Council,, said: “This is a landmark moment for Pontypool and Torfaen, celebrating cycling, community, and local pride. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a curious spectator, we sincerely hope that this cycling spectacle promises a festival atmosphere and unforgettable memories.”
For full details about road closures, maps, and travel advice, head to the Visit Torfaen website.