London to Paris - What to expect

If you’re reading this, then chances are you’ve heard of the London to Paris bike ride and you’re keen to find out a little more. So, with that in mind, we thought we’d pull together this article which outlines what to expect. Happy reading, and if you have any questions, you’ll find out how to contact us at the bottom of the page.

What’s it all about?

Well, it’s exactly what it says on the tin. The challenge is to cycle from London to Paris, but don’t worry, we’re not expecting you to do it all in one go, and you most certainly won't be alone! We’ll go into a little more detail below, but the ride is spread over four days, with a fifth, free day in Paris at the end of the trip, to explore this famous city at your leisure, or watch the final stage of the Tour de France, but more about that later. Riders are supported the entire way by a dedicated, and amazing team of event staff from our partner tour operator, Discover Adventure. The team comprises doctors and caterers, as well as a fleet of vehicles to pick you up if you need a rest. They're also well versed in carrying out basic mechanical work to your bike should you encounter any difficulties and carry a supply of equipment and spares. We welcome e-bikes, just don't forget to charge the battery each night!

What’s the route?

There are several possible routes to Paris, with multiple crossing points from the UK, and we aim to use a different route each year to ensure variety. Regardless of the route taken, expect to spend day one cycling through South East England, before crossing by ferry in the late afternoon, or early evening. Once on dry land in France, there is usually a short ride to a hotel near the port.

Visit the event webpage for a detailed itinerary.

How tough is it?

Discover Adventure class this ride as a good entry-level grade, perfect for first challenges. Expect to cycle on average between 70-75 miles per day, for four days straight, up and downhill. So, whilst it’s not beyond the realms of possibility for those with a reasonable level of fitness, we recommend that you train to condition yourself to ride day after day, getting back in the saddle each day is half the battle.

Check out this handy 15-week training plan to get you up to speed.

There’s no requirement for a road bike on this challenge but you will find it a lot easier on a drop handle bike. Failing that, at the very least a hybrid bike is a must. Mountain bikes can be quite heavy and will feel even heavier by day four and are therefore not recommended for this challenge.

What can I expect on the ride?

OK, well let’s begin by walking, or pedalling you through each day to give you a bit of a flavour of what the ride is all about.

On day one, riders meet early, really early, around 6 am, with a view to setting off at around 7 am (times may vary). After registration, we’ll check that you’ve got your passport, phone and some money on you for the ride, as well as give you tags for your luggage (main bag, preferably a soft holdall style, and day bag if you have one) and your bike. Your main bag will be loaded onto a truck and head straight off to France, leaving you only with the things you’ll need for the day. The next time you’ll see your main bag is in the hotel in France. After the obligatory photographs, pats on the backs, words of encouragement, we’ll set you off on your way! The route is very well signed the whole way, so you don’t have to worry about navigating, just enjoy the ride. There will be snack and water stops, roughly at halfway points through the morning and afternoon, as well as a fantastic lunch freshly made by caterers, served usually in a village hall, or suitable venue along the route. Arriving at the ferry port, we’ll all congregate, so if you’re super speedy you may have to wait around for the last person as we all catch the same ferry. The team will sort your tickets out and you’ll be escorted onto the ferry, riding your bikes. Then all is left to do is head on up to the decks, chill out, have dinner and recount the day's ride. There’s usually just a short ride to a hotel once you arrive in France where you’ll get some well-earned sleep.

Days two and three are essentially eat, sleep, repeat. Depending on the route you’ll wind your way through lovely rural lanes and quiet roads. Many of the routes pass by, or at least close to war grave cemeteries and memorials, a poignant reminder of the tragic events that ravaged this part of Northern France.

Each day breakfast and dinner will be available in the hotel, and your luggage will be transported to the next overnight stay.

Day four, the undisputed highlight of the trip, is the final leg in Paris. After riding at your own pace in the morning, upon arriving in the capital everyone gathers in a central place, typically one of the many beautiful parks. As on day one, we will wait for the last person to arrive before riding in peloton for the final few miles into Paris including riding around the frenetic Arc de Triomphe before recreating the finishing straight of the Tour de France as you pedal down the Champs-Élysées. The traffic seems to come to a standstill as the precession makes its way to the final destination, the Champs de Mars, in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower. You’ll get goosebumps as bewildered tourists stop to applaud and take photos of your arrival. After photos, hugs, and maybe even a few tears of joy, the evening is yours to enjoy in Paris. Upon arrival at the last hotel of the trip your bike will be loaded onto the truck and driven back to England, the next time you’ll see it is when you disembark the Eurostar at London St Pancras International on Sunday night.

Day 5 is free for you to explore this magnificent city. With so much to see and do, from the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Sacré-Cœur and Montmarte, Palace of Versailles, or perhaps even an open-top bus or river cruise tour, there is plenty to keep you entertained. Check out the official visitor website for even more ideas and inspiration.

For the real cycling fans, this is a rare chance to soak up the atmosphere and perhaps catch a glimpse of the world’s greatest races, the final stage of the Tour de France. Join the carnival atmosphere along the Champs-Élysées or find a spot to watch as your cycling heroes' whizz through the streets of Paris.

After all this, drag your weary legs to Gare du Nord for an evening Eurostar departure back to the UK to be reunited with your bike, before bidding all your fellow riders, and newfound friends, an emotional and fond farewell.

We’ve answers to frequently asked questions here, or if you’d like to speak to a member of the team please contact us using the form below.

If you’ve read enough and want to sign up, head on over to the event webpage now to register, and we’ll see you at the start!