Tourism boost as top British cyclists returning to Ceredigion this summer

Top British cyclists will be returning to Ceredigion again this summer as the county hosts the Lloyds National Road Championships from June 25-28, boosting the tourism industry.

The event has been secured as part of British Cycling’s agreement with the Welsh Government to host the championships in Wales until 2027.

Across three days of elite racing, the Time Trial Championships will be held in Lampeter and both the Circuit Race and Road Race Championships will start in Aberystwyth.

Ceredigion successfully hosted the championships last year, attracting large crowds to watch top British riders compete for national titles. Zoe Backstedt, Ethan Hayter, Cameron Mason, Kate Richardson, Mille Couzens and Samuel Watson were crowned elite champions during an exciting weekend of racing.

The continued partnership supports Wales’ ambition to stage world-class cycling events over the coming years, including stage three of the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ, which will take place between Welshpool and Cardiff.

“Events like this really help to put Mid Wales firmly on the cycling map,” said Zoe Hawkins, chief executive of MWT Cymru, which represents tourism and hospital businesses across Ceredigion, Powys and Meirionnydd.

“Ceredigion offers some of the most spectacular riding in the UK and welcoming elite racing like this shows exactly why the region is becoming such an important part of the UK’s cycling story.

“With the Tour de France coming through Mid Wales next year, there is growing national and international attention on cycling here. For tourism businesses across Mid Wales, that creates a real opportunity.

“These events help introduce new visitors to the area and inspire people to return to experience the landscapes, routes and communities that make Mid Wales so special.”

Jonathan Day, British Cycling Ventures director of events, said: “Wales has been a huge supporter of hosting major cycling events and Ceredigion provides the perfect stage for what promises to be another captivating National Championships, bringing together the best of British talent.

“Alongside Ceredigion County Council and the Welsh Government, we delivered a fantastic and engaging championships last year, so we are very pleased to be returning to the region once again for the 2026 edition.”

Welsh Government Minister for Sport, Jack Sargeant, said: “Wales is fast becoming a top destination for world-class cycling and the return of the Lloyds National Road Championships to Ceredigion is further proof of that.

“From the streets of Aberystwyth to the mountains at the heart of the South Wales valleys that will form part of the Tour de France Grand Départ route, we are determined that every part of Wales has the opportunity to share in the passion and economic benefits that major cycling events bring.“

Clive Davies, Ceredigion County Council Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: “Last year’s event was an outstanding success. It brought thousands of visitors to our communities, showcased our stunning landscapes to a UK‑wide audience and delivered a real boost for local businesses.

“To have British Cycling return is a testament to the strength of our partnership, the enthusiasm of our residents and the quality of the event we can host here in Ceredigion. We look forward to building on that success once again this year.”

The championships are expected to continue delivering significant economic and social benefits to communities across Ceredigion and Wales as a whole.