The Royal Parks - London's Personal Space
      
Home Events eCards Tourists Learning Press Business About Us
Press

15 May 2006
Tour of Britain takes to the Royal Parks


The Royal Parks


Five of London's Royal Parks will provide a stunning backdrop to the grand finale of this year's Tour of Britain. This year, for the first time, the sixth and final stage of the race will follow a beautiful and historic route across the capital.

The Royal Parks have been working with Tour of Britain and other partners to ensure thousands of spectators can experience the thrill and excitement of final leg of the race on 3rd

Royal Parks Chief Executive, Mark Camley said:

"With a route that starts in Greenwich Park, finishes on the Mall and takes in Regent's Park, Green Park, Hyde Park and a 20-lap circuit around St James's Park, this really will be a 'grand' finale.

"I hope the sight of cyclists flying around the Royal Parks will inspire people across London to get out on their bikes and experience our cycling routes for themselves," Mr Camley said.

To help manage the crowd and ensure an entertaining day is had by all, The Royal Parks will be establishing two major vantage points in St James's Park and Greenwich.

St James's Park will also host Bike Fest, an event to entertain spectators while they wait for the competitors to cross the finish line. Amateur cyclists will compete throughout the day and exhibitors will display the latest cycle gear, bikes and technologies.

The grand finale is the sixth and final stage of the 2006 Tour of Britain, unveiled today, Monday 15 May, at the official launch hosted by the Minister for Sport, Richard Caborn at Lancaster House, London.

Richard Caborn commented:

"I am confident that The Royal Parks are going to do a fantastic job hosting the finale of the 2006 Tour of Britain. This is a very special event, which gives people across the country the opportunity to watch world-class athletes performing at their very best. I hope this will inspire more and more people to take up cycling and help carry on Britain's proud tradition of producing cycling champions."

To find out more about Tour of Britain go to: www.tourofbritain.co.uk

Source:
The Royal Parks

For further information contact:
The Royal Parks Press Office T: 020 7298 2128 E: press@royalparks.gsi.gov.uk

Editor's notes:

Millions of Londoners and tourists visit the eight Royal Parks for free each year. The 5,000 acres of carefully conserved historic parkland provide unparalleled opportunities for enjoyment, exploration and healthy living in the heart of the capital.

The Royal Parks are: Bushy Park, The Green Park, Greenwich Park, Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, The Regent's Park (with Primrose Hill), Richmond Park and St James's Park.

The Regent's Park
The Regent's Park is evolved from the 1811 plans of John Nash, Crown Architect and friend of The Prince Regent. Today the Park includes gardens, a lake with islands, a heronry and waterfowl collection, sports and catering, children's playgrounds and the Open Air Theatre. It also hosts London Zoo and is the largest outdoor area for sports in central London.

Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London's finest historic landscapes covering 142 hectares (350 acres) in the heart of London. There is something for everyone in Hyde Park. Home to the Serpentine Lake, over 4,000 trees, a lake, a meadow, horse rides and more, it is easy to forget you're in the heart of London.

St James's Park
With its royal, political and literary associations, St James's Park is at the very heart of London and covers 23 hectares (58 acres). With a lake harbouring ducks, geese and pelicans. St James's is also home to the Mall, the setting for many ceremonial parades and events of national celebration.

Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park is one of London's most beautiful locations. This area is famous for its beautiful hilltop view, which overlooking the City. Historically speaking, Greenwich Park is the oldest enclosed Royal parkland, covering over 183 acres of land. Visitors of the Park are guaranteed to see all types of wildlife.

The Green Park
Covering 19 hectares (47 acres) The Green Park is quite different from its neighbour St James's Park. It is more peaceful, with mature trees and grassland. It is bordered by Constitution Hill, Piccadilly and Queen's Walk.

The Royal Parks
Home Events eCards Tourists Learning Press Business About Us
London's Personal Space
Disclaimer | Park Regulations | Website policy | © 2008 The Royal Parks