Fifth time in the UK

The UK will host the men's event for the fifth time — the first was in Plymouth in 1974 - and will start the race for a third time after London in 2007 and Leeds in 2014.

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Crowds totalling 2.5m lined the route when the first two stages of the Tour were held in Yorkshire in 2014 and organisers are expecting a similarly spectacular turn out next year.

Tour director Christian Prudhomme said: “The UK has always welcomed the Tour with passion and pride, and the route details we are revealing reflect the beauty and diversity of Britain's terrain. Bringing both Grand Departs here is a testament to the strength of our partnership with British Cycling and the enthusiasm of the UK.