Tour de France to start in Edinburgh in 2027
The Scottish city of Edinburgh will host the Tour de France Grand Depart in 2027 as the world's most famous cycling race returns to Britain for the fifth time.
It will be the third time the race has started in Britain after London in 2007 and Leeds in 2014.
Organisers also confirmed on Wednesday that the Tour de France Femmes will come to Britain in 2027, the first time both races have held stages in the same country outside of France.
Further details on routes will be announced in the autumn, but the prospect of a stage on the cobblestones of Edinburgh's Royal Mile is a mouth-watering one.
Organisers also confirmed that the Tour's first three stages will be in Scotland, England and Wales.
"Why Edinburgh? Because it's a magical city," the Tour's General Director Christian Prudhomme told reporters during a briefing on Wednesday. "In the Tour de France and all cycling races, what is very important is the helicopter shots.
"Edinburgh and Scotland will offer a magnificent backdrop."
The Tour first came to Britain in 1974 when Plymouth hosted a stage and it returned 20 years later in Dover to celebrate the opening of the Channel Tunnel. London staged the Grand Depart in 2007 and in 2014 massive crowds perched on the Yorkshire hills as the race began in brutal and spectacular fashion.
"It was a wall of people, it was massive," Prudhomme said.
The opening stage in 2014 ended in Harrogate where home favourite Mark Cavendish crashed badly, ruling him out of the rest of the race. Despite that disappointment, Cavendish said starting a Tour in Britain was unforgettable.
"I did two British Grand Departs. The first one was my first ever Tour of France and for many years that was the greatest Grand Depart any rider of our generation could remember," sprinting great Cavendish, who won a record 35 Tour stages, told reporters.
"It was four, five people deep the whole way from London to Canterbury. Then we went to Yorkshire in 2014 and that was something else, wasn't it."
The return of the Tour to Britain and the first staging of the Tour de France Femmes in the country was a collaboration between Tour owners ASO, British Cycling, UK Sport and the UK, Scottish and Welsh Governments.
Jon Dutton, CEO of British Cycling, said it represents an exciting moment for cycling in the UK.
"Hosting both the men's and women's races together will be a first, and we believe it has the potential to inspire more people to discover the joy and benefits of cycling," he said.
Glasgow hosted the inaugural combined UCI World Cycling Championships in 2023, contributing an estimated £205 million (AED976.5 million) to the local economy, according to the UCI.
Last year's Tour Grand Depart took place in Florence, Italy, with the 2026 race scheduled to start in Spain in Barcelona.
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What's On
2 days ago
- What's On
16 of the best afternoon teas in Dubai in 2025
Sweet and savoury treats, tea prepared by certified sommeliers, music from a grand piano, this is what you can expect from the afternoon tea at The Lana. You will be able to tuck into sandwiches such as smoked Scottish salmon, truffle egg, scones with Devon clotted cream, laminated coffee brioche, and more. With temperatures rising, you can pair your meal with refreshing iced tea or homemade lemonades prepared tableside. To top off your experience, you will get to enjoy stunning views of Downtown Dubai. The Lana, Marasi Dr, Business Bay, Dubai, available daily from 1pm to 6pm, from Dhs600, Tel: (0)4 541 7755. Image: Set within the glass conservatory of Address Beach Resort, The Lounge offers a calm, all-day setting, but the Breeze Blossom Afternoon Tea is the real standout. Served daily from 3pm to 8pm, it includes unlimited hot and cold beverages, priced at Dhs198 per person. For those looking to elevate the experience, it's Dhs249 with a glass of Zonin Prosecco or Dhs298 with a glass of Louis Roederer Champagne. From Thursday to Saturday, a live harpist plays from 4pm, just the right kind of detail to make an afternoon feel like an occasion. Address Beach Resort, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai, daily 3pm to 10pm, starting at Dhs198 per set, Tel: (0)4 879 8888. Voted What's On Dubai ‘s best Afternoon Tea 2021, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk afternoon tea serves up its afternoon tea in a sophisticated vault at Bijou Patisserie (lobby lounge). Prices start from Dhs195 for the afternoon tea with tea, coffee and homemade lemonade. You can elevate your experience and enjoy the afternoon tea above the clouds on the 51st floor at the exclusive Club Millesime with prices starting from Dhs385. Bijou Patisserie, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, lobby lounge, Wafi, Dubai, daily 2pm to 6pm, Tel: (0)4 281 4111. A solid choice if you're hosting out-of-towners, this spot offers unbeatable views of Burj Al Arab. The terrace is perfect for those cooler months when you want to enjoy the scenery without breaking a sweat. Afternoon tea here is all about variety, think carefully curated sandwiches, cakes, and scones, served in a setting that's elegant yet relaxed. The service is spot on, and there’s an impressive tea menu to choose from if you're a fan of the brew. Al Fayrooz Lounge, Jumeirah Al Qasr, Umm Suqeim. Aspen Cafe by Kempinski at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates offers afternoon tea with nibbles ranging from sandwiches and wraps to scones and cakes. For sips, you's have non-alcoholic bubbly and freshly brewed beverages. The offer is available daily from 3pm to 6pm. It costs Dhs200 per adult or Dhs375 for two. Kempinski Hotel, Mall of The Emirates, Al Barsha, Dubai, daily 1pm to 7pm, Tel: (04) 409 5999. The Hi-Tea is a decadent affair at the luxury hotel, Palazzo Versace. Sample an assortment of finger sandwiches, plain scones with homemade jam; clotted cream; and lemon curd, and a variety of pastries. Pair it with Damman Freres tea. Only want tea to pair? It's Dhs378 for two guests, but if you want two glasses of Prosecco, it's Dhs504. If you're meeting mates over a quick catch-up, opt for the Cream Tea offer which will get you fruit and plain scones, served with clotted cream, homemade jam and lemon curd and tea for Dhs95 per person. Palazzo Versace, Culture Village, Al Jadaf, Dubai, daily 10.30am to 7pm. Tel: (0)4 556 8888. For tea lovers who think they've seen it all, this spot is a must-try. Set in the vast lobby of one of the world's most famous hotels, it's hard to miss the dramatic water droplet sculpture and the fire walls at the entrance, the setting is as striking as the tea. When it comes to the tea itself, it's all about the experience. With a detailed run-through of the tea-brewing process, you'll get to enjoy a range of top-tier sandwiches and a generous spread of cakes. It's one for the tea connoisseurs who appreciate the finer details. The Royal Tearoom, Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, daily 2pm to 5pm, priced at Dhs560 for two people. Tel: (04) 426 2000 Treat yourself to an afternoon of luxury with the Grand Palaces Afternoon Tea, served in the stunning Bluthner Hall. Here you can enjoy decadent desserts inspired by Europe's most famous palaces, including the airy Victoria Sponge Cake and rich Sacher Torte. Alongside, enjoy a selection of savoury bites, sandwiches, tarts, pastries, and scones, all paired with a choice of carefully curated Nina's Marie Antoinette teas, coffee, or hot chocolate. Raffles The Palm Dubai, Palm Jumeirah. Tel: (0)4 248 8888). Image: Your afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton will include traditional scones, elegant sandwiches, and sweet treats such as truffles, macaroons and cakes. There are two options to pick from: traditional for Dhs215 which comes with tea or hot beverages, and Royal Treat for Dhs305 which includes a glass of champagne. You can even add Dhs150 per person for two hours of free-flowing sparkling wine. The Ritz-Carlton, The Walk, JBR, Dubai, daily 12.30pm to 5pm, Dhs215 for traditional and Dhs305 for royal, Tel: (04) 318 6150. Expect dainty bites and elegant flavours at Peacock Alley's Meet me at the Clock afternoon tea. On the savoury side, there's wild crab with caviar, black truffle pommes mousseline, smoked salmon roulade, and foie gras puffs, alongside classic sandwiches like tuna and aioli on brioche and coronation chicken on whole grain. Sweet treats include strawberry and rose cake, mango cheesecake, pistachio and raspberry mousse, and warm scones served with clotted cream and seasonal jams. A selection of fine teas completes the experience, with the option to add a glass of bubbly if you fancy. Peacock Alley, Waldorf Astoria DIFC, available Sunday to Friday from 2pm to 6pm, from Dhs225, Tel: (0)4 515 9818. Shai Salon at Four Seasons Resort Dubai marks a decade of sweet memories with its limited-edition ‘A Decade in Desserts’ afternoon tea. Crafted by Senior Executive Pastry Chef Nicolas Lambert, the menu takes guests on a journey through the cities that shaped him, from Hong Kong and St. Petersburg to Dubai. Expect creations like Fra-Sia “Vacherin†with white strawberry, yuzu and basil; a raspberry and almond biscuit layered with lemon cream; and Chocolates “Caprice†with white chocolate brownie and caramelised cocoa nibs. Highlights also include the Honey “Bee†with Hatta Mountain honey and apricot, Exotic “Cloud†with passion fruit and coconut, and Le Clafoutis de Jeannot, a warm blueberry dessert with Tahitian vanilla creme fraiche. Served with your choice of tea or coffee. Shai Salon, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, daily 3pm to 7pm, from Dhs260. Tel: (0)4 270 7805. You'll get a selection of delectable treats at this all-new afternoon tea experience at Peacock Alley. Pick from the brew package, a pink gin cocktail package or a champagne package. The afternoon tea runs daily from 2pm to 6pm and starts at Dhs225 per person. Peacock Alley, Waldorf Astoria, Palm Jumeirah, daily 2pm to 6pm, from Dhs225 for classic, upgrade with a glass of bubbly for Dhs100. Tel:(0) 4 818 2222. Raffles is serving the Classic Afternoon Tea, priced at Dhs195 per person, available daily from 2pm to 6pm. Plus, there is now a Kids' Afternoon Tea (for children aged 12 and below) at Dhs75 per child. The experience features a delightful selection of savoury treats and sweet delicacies, elegantly presented on Victorian-style gold stands with unlimited tea and coffee served. Raffles Dubai, Sheikh Rashid Road, Wafi, Dubai, daily, 2pm to 6pm. Tel: (04) 324 8888. Godiva Cafe at Rixos Premium Dubai is offering a scrumptious afternoon tea experience combining Belgian chocolate heritage with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Savoury bites include cured salmon with caviar to Ottoman shrimp cocktail, sucuk & cheese Brioche and vegetarian quesadillas. On the sweet selection, there's Godiva's signature creations such as white chocolate cheesecake with kunafa crust, Turkish coffee chocolate swans, caramel eclairs, and Creme Brulee. Pair your experience with Dammann Freres tea s, or a choice of iced or flavoured coffee. It's Dhs179 per person, or Dhs269 for two, and the afternoon tea is available daily from 3pm to 6pm. Godiva Cafe, Rixos Premium Dubai, Dubai, 3pm to 6pm daily, Dhs179 for one and Dhs269 for two, Tel: (0)4 520 0000. @rixospremiumdubai Love an afternoon tea? Try the quintessential British tradition with an Arabic twist at Open Sesame at Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown. The Neighborhood Arabic Tea Experience includes flavours from camel milk rose ganache to labneh-cucumber sandwiches and beyond. Offer: Dhs250 for two with afternoon tea , Dhs350 afternoon tea for two and art tour When: daily 1pm to 5pm Location: Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown Contact: 056 422 7120. @opensesamedubai Escape the summer heat with a refreshing twist on a classic tradition. At The Samovar Lounge, One&Only Royal Mirage, you can enjoy a selection of delicate pastries, and cool infusions served in the serene ambiance of Samovar Lounge. Ideal for a relaxed catch-up or a refined afternoon indulgence. Offer: Dhs210 per person with tea and coffee, Dhs395 with a glass of champagne Additional Dhs250 for candle making with Kinza Studio. Timings: Daily from 3pm to 6pm Location: The Samovar Lounge, One&Only Royal Mirage. Contact: (0)4 399 9999. Booking required with 48 hours in advance
Khaleej Times
27-05-2025
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From Dubai golfer Andy Andrews returns home to lead Sri Lanka's golfing future
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What's On
10-05-2025
- What's On
13 of the best afternoon teas in Dubai in 2025
Sweet and savoury treats, tea prepared by certified sommeliers, music from a grand piano, this is what you can expect from the afternoon tea at The Lana. You will be able to tuck into sandwiches such as smoked Scottish salmon, truffle egg, scones with Devon clotted cream, laminated coffee brioche, and more. With temperatures rising, you can pair your meal with refreshing iced tea or homemade lemonades prepared tableside. To top off your experience, you will get to enjoy stunning views of Downtown Dubai. The Lana, Marasi Dr, Business Bay, Dubai, available daily from 1pm to 6pm, from Dhs600, Tel: (0)4 541 7755. Image: Address Beach Resort has a 1001 Arabian a fternoon t ea. This special Ramadan-themed afternoon tea features an array of Arabic-inspired dishes, accompanied by specialty coffee, and the refreshing mocktail of the month. Address Beach Resort, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai, daily 3pm to 10pm, starting at Dhs198 per set, Tel: (0)4 879 8888. Raffles is serving a Traveler's Afternoon Tea with a sumptuous array of savoury delicacies and sweet treats. This afternoon tea will cost you Dhs185 per person including free flowing tea. You can also get a 60-minute massage with an afternoon tea for Dhs550. Little ones joining in can enjoy a dedicated children's afternoon tea (pictured above) with savoury snacks, desserts and a choice of rich hot chocolate or refreshing fruit juices. The children's afternoon tea will cost you Dhs75 per person. Raffles Dubai, Sheikh Rashid Road, Wafi, Dubai, daily, 2pm to 6pm, children's afternoon tea Dhs75 per child, Dhs185 per traveller's afternoon tea. Tel: (04) 324 8888. Voted What's On Dubai ‘s best Afternoon Tea 2021, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk afternoon tea serves up its afternoon tea in a sophisticated vault at Bijou Patisserie (lobby lounge). Prices start from Dhs195 for the afternoon tea with tea, coffee and homemade lemonade. You can elevate your experience and enjoy the afternoon tea above the clouds on the 51st floor at the exclusive Club Millesime with prices starting from Dhs385. Bijou Patisserie, Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, lobby lounge, Wafi, Dubai, daily 2pm to 6pm, Tel: (0)4 281 4111. A solid choice if you're hosting out-of-towners, this spot offers unbeatable views of Burj Al Arab. The terrace is perfect for those cooler months when you want to enjoy the scenery without breaking a sweat. Afternoon tea here is all about variety, think carefully curated sandwiches, cakes, and scones, served in a setting that's elegant yet relaxed. The service is spot on, and there’s an impressive tea menu to choose from if you're a fan of the brew. Al Fayrooz Lounge, Jumeirah Al Qasr, Umm Suqeim. Aspen Cafe by Kempinski at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates offers afternoon tea with nibbles ranging from sandwiches and wraps to scones and cakes. For sips, you's have non-alcoholic bubbly and freshly brewed beverages. The offer is available daily from 3pm to 6pm. It costs Dhs200 per adult or Dhs375 for two. Kempinski Hotel, Mall of The Emirates, Al Barsha, Dubai, daily 1pm to 7pm, Tel: (04) 409 5999. The Hi-Tea is a decadent affair at the luxury hotel, Palazzo Versace. Sample an assortment of finger sandwiches, plain scones with homemade jam; clotted cream; and lemon curd, and a variety of pastries. Pair it with Damman Freres tea. Only want tea to pair? It's Dhs378 for two guests, but if you want two glasses of Prosecco, it's Dhs504. If you're meeting mates over a quick catch-up, opt for the Cream Tea offer which will get you fruit and plain scones, served with clotted cream, homemade jam and lemon curd and tea for Dhs95 per person. Palazzo Versace, Culture Village, Al Jadaf, Dubai, daily 10.30am to 7pm. Tel: (0)4 556 8888. For tea lovers who think they've seen it all, this spot is a must-try. Set in the vast lobby of one of the world's most famous hotels, it's hard to miss the dramatic water droplet sculpture and the fire walls at the entrance, the setting is as striking as the tea. When it comes to the tea itself, it's all about the experience. With a detailed run-through of the tea-brewing process, you'll get to enjoy a range of top-tier sandwiches and a generous spread of cakes. It's one for the tea connoisseurs who appreciate the finer details. The Royal Tearoom, Atlantis The Royal, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, daily 2pm to 5pm, priced at Dhs560 for two people. Tel: (04) 426 2000 Treat yourself to an afternoon of luxury with the Grand Palaces Afternoon Tea, served in the stunning Bluthner Hall. Here you can enjoy decadent desserts inspired by Europe's most famous palaces, including the airy Victoria Sponge Cake and rich Sacher Torte. Alongside, enjoy a selection of savoury bites, sandwiches, tarts, pastries, and scones, all paired with a choice of carefully curated Nina's Marie Antoinette teas, coffee, or hot chocolate. Raffles The Palm Dubai, Palm Jumeirah. Tel: (0)4 248 8888). Image: You'll get a selection of delectable treats at this all-new afternoon tea experience at Peacock Alley. Pick from the brew package, a pink gin cocktail package or a champagne package. The afternoon tea runs daily from 2pm to 6pm and starts at Dhs225 per person. Peacock Alley, Waldorf Astoria, Palm Jumeirah, daily 2pm to 6pm, from Dhs225 for classic, upgrade with a glass of bubbly for Dhs100. Tel:(0) 4 818 2222. Your afternoon tea at The Ritz-Carlton will include traditional scones, elegant sandwiches, and sweet treats such as truffles, macaroons and cakes. There are two options to pick from: traditional for Dhs215 which comes with tea or hot beverages, and Royal Treat for Dhs305 which includes a glass of champagne. You can even add Dhs150 per person for two hours of free-flowing sparkling wine. The Ritz-Carlton, The Walk, JBR, Dubai, daily 12.30pm to 5pm, Dhs215 for traditional and Dhs305 for royal, Tel: (04) 318 6150. Expect dainty bites and elegant flavours at Peacock Alley’s ‘Meet me at the Clock’ afternoon tea. On the savoury side, there’s wild crab with caviar, black truffle pommes mousseline, smoked salmon roulade, and foie gras puffs, alongside classic sandwiches like tuna and aioli on brioche and coronation chicken on whole grain. Sweet treats include strawberry and rose cake, mango cheesecake, pistachio and raspberry mousse, and warm scones served with clotted cream and seasonal jams. A selection of fine teas completes the experience, with the option to add a glass of bubbly if you fancy. Peacock Alley, Waldorf Astoria DIFC, available Sunday to Friday from 2pm to 6pm, from Dhs225, Tel: (0)4 515 9818. Shai Salon at Four Seasons Resort Dubai marks a decade of sweet memories with its limited-edition ‘A Decade in Desserts’ afternoon tea. Crafted by Senior Executive Pastry Chef Nicolas Lambert, the menu takes guests on a journey through the cities that shaped him, from Hong Kong and St. Petersburg to Dubai. Expect creations like Fra-Sia “Vacherin†with white strawberry, yuzu and basil; a raspberry and almond biscuit layered with lemon cream; and Chocolates “Caprice†with white chocolate brownie and caramelised cocoa nibs. Highlights also include the Honey “Bee†with Hatta Mountain honey and apricot, Exotic “Cloud†with passion fruit and coconut, and Le Clafoutis de Jeannot, a warm blueberry dessert with Tahitian vanilla creme fraiche. Served with your choice of tea or coffee. Shai Salon, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, daily 3pm to 7pm, from Dhs260. Tel: (0)4 270 7805.
