Esplanade to become an activities hub

02 September 2021

Two-wheeled stunt shows, a pedal powered cinema and climbing walls are among the fun, family-friendly and free attractions when the prestigious Tour of Britain comes to the north-east.

A total of 120 world class cyclists will race across the region on Sunday 12 September finishing in Aberdeen and, at the finish line, the Getabout Activity Village will transform the Esplanade into an activities hub, featuring a range of attractions and information stalls for all to enjoy. Taking place at the Esplanade from 10.30am to 4pm, there will be entertainment acts, the Tour of Britain Promotion Village as well as interactive cycle activities including the Sustrans pedal powered cinema and also the Getabout stalls. Getabout is a partnership of local organisations that want to make it easier, simpler, and more attractive to travel sustainably in and around Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire - whether you’re cycling, walking, wheeling, using public transport or sustainable car travel.

Live Life Aberdeenshire will enhance the theme of all things cycling with a bike track and obstacle course, they will also put attendees to the test with their climbing wall, whether you are a novice or a seasoned climber, or the Bike Doctor will be on hand to service attendees’ bikes.

Event goers can have a Wheelie Fun time and enjoy a driver experience with family and friends on battery powered electric vehicles and Ninebot Gokarts. Clan stunt show will feature a BMX stunt show with performances at 11.30am,1pm and 2.30pm.

Aberdeen Sports Village will challenge visitors with ball sports and target games for all the family. Movement Evolution will be on hand with their Obstacle Parkour Course. Transition Extreme will raise the excitement with an adrenaline filled high ropes course.

If visitors are inspired by the elite cyclists such as Mark Cavendish, Adventure Aberdeen will have a range of bikes for people to try out. The “Shirt & Squirt” stall will see friends and families compete as they cycle to avoid being soaked or win a prize.

At the village, there will also be walkabout street acts such as Graham Benson’s unicycle display and the Balloon Mannies. Grampian District Pipes and Drums will provide entertainment during the day.

Aberdeen City Council Leader Councillor Jenny Laing said: “The Getabout Activity Village will create a fantastic atmosphere as we await the elite cyclists. The activity programme is designed to appeal to all ages with a great family feel and we are delighted to welcome both residents and visitors.

“As well as being a great celebration of cycling, the Tour of Britain will have a huge part to play in our post-Covid economic recovery plans. Through our Aberdeen 365 Events Programme and City Centre Masterplan, Aberdeen City Council is committed to making Aberdeen a vibrant and attractive place to live, work and visit.”

When attending please remember the following guidance:

Have a plan B – if you arrive to any point on the route or the Getabout Activity Village and find it busy, please be prepared to move on to another location.Personal responsibility – only stay at a location if you have space. Consider wearing a mask if it makes you feel safer.Give people space – avoid crowded areas and remember face coverings are advised as they often help others to feel safe too.Parking is limited – parking will not be available at the beach, we advise that you park in the city centre and walk to the Getabout Activity Village or use public transport.Respect the safety of the riders – please give them space as they pass along the routes. Please note that you will not be able to access the team parking areas at the start and finishes.

Please note that parking will not be available at the beach, visitors are advised to park in the city centre and walk to the Getabout Activity Village or use public transport.