All eyes on Ilkley for prestigious cycle event
- Nick
- 5 hours ago
- 3 min read
The streets of Ilkley are set to come alive with an electric atmosphere on Friday, 4th July 2025, as the Ilkley Cycle Races return - bringing not only high-speed elite racing but also a fantastic evening of food, drink, and entertainment for the whole community.
One of Yorkshire’s most vibrant summer events, the Ilkley Cycle Races are more than a sporting spectacle. With the town centre closed to traffic, the evening transforms into a buzzing open-air celebration - where spectators can enjoy top-level cycle racing alongside artisan street food, local beers and cocktails, and family-friendly fun.
As riders tear around the famous town-centre circuit, spectators can take in the action from one of many pop-up bars, outdoor seating areas, and food stalls, all hosted by local vendors. Expect everything from authentic paella and gourmet burgers to craft ales, ice cream, and fizz - all with the backdrop of world class cycling throughout the evening.
Tom Harris, one of the event team said:
"Ilkley Cycle Races are a highlight of the town’s summer calendar, whether you’re a seasoned cycling fan or just love a great evenings entertainment, there’s something for everyone - and 2025 promises to be our best yet."
This year’s event includes:
MAS Design Youth Race – Spotlighting the next generation of champions.
Ilkley CC Masters Race – Competitive racing for seasoned cyclists aged 40+.
Rathbones Open Classic – A fast, fiercely contested race for category 2,3,4 racers
Orbea Women’s Grand Prix – One of the premier women’s criteriums in the UK.
Lister Horsfall Men’s Grand Prix – A high-speed, high-stakes showdown for elite racers.
Ilkley is one of just 16 cycling events in the world that will form part of the brand new ‘Rapha Super-League’, a new cycling league established by cycling brand Rapha aiming to reignite support and bring back the popularity road cycling used to see.
The 2025 Ilkley Cycle Races will hold special significance this year as Ilkley has been selected as one of only 16 cycling events worldwide to feature in the inaugural Rapha Super-League - a brand new racing series created by premium cycling brand Rapha. Designed to reignite public passion for road cycling and restore the excitement the sport once commanded, the Super-League aims to elevate town-centre racing. Ilkley’s inclusion puts the town firmly on the map as one of the sport’s most prestigious showcases, drawing top talent and national attention to this unique celebration of cycling culture. Last year’s Ilkley Cycle Races showcased top talent from across three continents with previous competitors including Olympic medal winners Tom Pidcock Lizzie Deignan.
Jon Dutton, British Cycling's CEO said.
"The Rapha Super-League is an exciting and original concept which highlights a selection of some of the best races our sport has to offer."
Councillor Damian Kearns, Mayor of Ilkley, thinks the Ilkley Cycle Races are a true highlight of our town’s calendar commenting:
“I’m absolutely thrilled to see them return to our streets this July.
“It’s a brilliant celebration of community, sport, and local pride - and the atmosphere on race night is unlike anything else. With Ilkley now part of the new Rapha Super-League, Ilkley is proudly stepping onto the global stage, and I couldn’t be prouder. I encourage everyone to come down, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy everything this fantastic event has to offer."
Whether you’re watching the drama of the final sprint or just soaking up the festival vibes with a drink in hand, the Ilkley Cycle Races promise a perfect summer evening in the heart of one of Yorkshire’s most beautiful towns.