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London to Paris Cycle


Dates Availability

19th - 21st July 2024
Full Price: £695    Deposit Only: £175
FULLY BOOKED

13-15th September 2024
Full Price: £695    Deposit Only: £175
FULLY BOOKED
 
Good Availability    
 
Limited Availability    
 
Fully Booked

Looking for an unforgettable adventure that takes you from one of London’s most iconic landmarks to the most romantic city in the world? Join the London to Paris Cycle Tour and experience the thrill of cycling 190 miles through some of the most breathtaking French countryside on smooth-as-silk roads.

Over three days, you'll embark on an unforgettable adventure through the picturesque French countryside, cycling from London's famous landmarks to the most romantic city in the world, Paris. While the journey may have a few hills to climb, the beautiful summer weather and the company of your fellow cyclists will make it an experience to remember. And as you approach the majestic Eiffel Tower at the end of your journey, a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment will leave you with an unbeatable feeling.

Of course, you won't be alone on this epic journey, as The Challenge Central team will be with you every step of the way, providing support and carrying your personal belongings in our support vehicle all the way to Paris. Plus, with the option to have your bikes and belongings transported back to the UK after the challenge, you can explore the city at your own pace.

We've taken care of everything, including the overnight ferry on day one, accommodation in Beauvais on day two, and food on both evenings. And with no charity commitments, you're free to raise money for a cause close to your heart or simply take on the challenge for personal accomplishment.

The London to Paris Cycle Ride is one of our most popular challenges and we're proud to offer both public dates throughout the summer and bespoke cycle tours for corporate teams, charity fundraisers, and groups of friends. With Challenge Central, you can expect exceptional customer service every step of the way.

 

London to Paris Cycle Challenge

 

Day 1 - London to Newhaven – 65 Miles

Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? The cycling challenge begins at Carlton House Terrace, London, at 09:00. We'll travel a short distance on foot to our starting point in Trafalgar Square, where we'll depart at approximately 10:00.

From there, we'll head out of the capital towards Brighton, traveling through picturesque Sussex countryside. We've carefully chosen quieter roads for our bike ride, so you can expect to cycle through some truly beautiful scenery.

Our journey continues east along the coastline towards Newhaven, offering stunning sea views and flanked by the famous white cliffs. After a hearty meal and a good night's rest, we'll take the ferry to Dieppe and begin day two of the bike ride.

 

Day 2 – Dieppe to Beauvais – 75 miles

On Day 2 of our journey, we'll wake up early to the beautiful morning twilight and begin cycling along the gently inclined Avenue Verte cycle track. As we make our way through the stunning countryside, we'll have plenty of opportunities to take in the picturesque scenery and breathe in the fresh French air.

After a few miles of cycling, we'll arrive at the charming town of Forges-les-Eaux, where we'll take a well-earned break and stop for breakfast at one of the enchanting local cafes. Here, we'll have a chance to refuel and chat with our fellow cyclists, sharing stories and making memories that will last a lifetime.

Once we've finished breakfast, we'll continue on our journey, cycling on fantastically smooth roads that wind through several quaint French towns and villages. Along the way, we'll pass by historic landmarks and beautiful natural sights, making the most of our journey through this stunning part of France.

Finally, in the early afternoon, we'll arrive at our destination for the day - the charming town of Beauvais. Here, we'll have a chance to relax, explore the town, and enjoy the company of our fellow cyclists, before getting a good night's sleep in preparation for the next day's adventure.

 

Day 3 - Beauvais to Paris – 50 miles

After a much-needed rest, we'll begin our final push to Paris in the morning, cycling right into the heart of the city. As we approach the Eiffel Tower, we'll ride past the beautiful Victor Hugo fountain through to the Trocadero, offering the perfect opportunity to capture stunning photos with the tower displayed in the background.

With our bike ride coming to an end in the early afternoon, you can celebrate your cross-channel triumph in one of the many renowned Parisian bars and restaurants. And with the option of having your bike transported back to Hertfordshire for collection during the week, you'll have the freedom to explore this magnificent city even further.

Are you ready to take on this unforgettable cycling challenge? Join the London to Paris Cycle Tour and experience the adventure of a lifetime with Challenge Central.

 

London to Paris Info Graphic

What’s included:

>> Support Vehicle and Cycle Leaders

>> Overnight Ferry with Cabin Bed on Day 1 (upgrades for private/single occupancy cabins available)

>> Accommodation on Day 2, based on twin occupancy (upgrades for single occupancy available)

>> Day 1 & 2 Evening Main Meal 

>> Shower/Changing Facilities at Local Hotel on Day 1 (before boarding the ferry)

>> Light Refreshments & Fluids

>> London to Paris Finisher Medal

 

What’s not included:

>> Equipment

>> Personal Insurance

>> Food / Drink (aside from those mentioned in inclusions)

>> Transport back from Paris

 

Please note:

Challenge Central requires a minimum participation level to operate. Bookings may be refunded or transferred if this level is not reached within 3 months of the event. Your booking cannot be fully confirmed until your place on the ferry is secured.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for more details.

 

London to Paris Cycle Challenge

Downloadable check list available here

The Kit List for the London to Paris Challenge:

Bike Clothing:

>> Compulsory Bike Helmet

>> Padded Cycling Shorts*

>> Cycling Tops / T-Shirts*

>> Waterproof / Warm Cycling Clothing**

>> High Viz Vest / Reflective Clothing

>> Cycle Shoes and Socks

 

Other Clothing:

>> Casual Clothing (for when not cycling)

>> Shoes / Trainers / Flip Flops

>> Light Blanket / Sleeping Bag / Roll Mat

 

Bike Kit:

>> Bike

>> Bell (legally required in France)

>> Bright Bike Lights / Head Torch

>> Water Bottle / Camelbak

>> Small Backpack or Bento Box (for accessible food)

>> Tyre Levers

>> Bike Tools and Pump

>> Spare Inner Tubes x4 (at least!)

>> Puncture Repair Kit

>> High Quality Puncture Resistant Tyres (are strongly advised)

 

Luggage / Packing Equipment:

>> Holdall (for everything in the support vehicle)

>> Packing Sacks and Dry Sacks

>> Plastic Bags (for wet clothes)

 

Hygiene & Health:

>> Toiletries

>> Sun Protection

>> Flannel / Hand Towel

>> Bath Towel

>> Anti-Insect Spray

>> Anti-Chafe Cream

>> Anti-Nausea Tablets / Bands (for ferry crossing)

>> Prescribed Medication (if applicable)

>> Basic First Aid Kit (Guides will carry as well)

 

Nutrition:

>> Energy Snacks

>> Fluid Replacements

 

Documentation / Other:

>> Passport

>> Return Travel Documents

>> Travel Insurance (to cover you for cycling activities) and EHIC Card (if applicable to you)

>> Mobile Phone & Charger

>> European Plug Adapter

>> Power Bank Charger(s)

>> Currency

*You should aim for at least one cycling outfit per day and one extra for spares as the weather can be unpredictable.

**Warm cycling clothing should include jackets / gloves / arm & leg warmers. Layers of clothing will help to keep you warm.

London to Paris Cycle Challenge

Day 1 - London to Newhaven – 65 Miles

London to Paris Day 1 Route

Schedule (please view as a guide only)

Start: Trafalgar Square 10:00
45 Minute Break: Carshalton (at 15 miles) 
45 Minute Break: Turners Hill (at 40 miles) 
Mini Break: Ditchling Beacon (at 50 miles) 
Finish: Newhaven (at 65 miles) 19:30 (Board the ferry between 15 minutes and 1.5 hours before departure)

 

Day 2 – Dieppe to Beauvais – 75 miles

London to Paris Day 2 Route

 

Schedule (please view as a guide only)

Start: Dieppe 05:00 (depending on the tide)
Hour Break: Forges les Eaux (at 35 miles) 
Hour Break: St Germer de Fly (at 55 miles) 
Finish: Beauvais (at 75 miles) 15:00

 

Day 3 - Beauvais to Paris – 50 miles

London to Paris Day 3 Route

 

Schedule (please view as a guide only)

Start: Beauvais 06:00
45 Minute Break: Pontoise (at 30 miles) 
Finish: Trocadero, Paris (at 50 miles) 12:00noon

Bike and Kit Transfer - Pre and Post Challenge

We understand that travelling with your bike and kit can be challenging, especially when travelling to London and back from Europe. That's why we offer a transport service to take away the stress by bringing your belongings to London on Day 1 and transporting them back to Letchworth, Hertfordshire after the event for you to collect.

You can drop off your bike at our HQ in Letchworth between the hours of 08:00 - 20:00 Monday - Friday, and 09:00 - 14:00 Saturday and Sunday:

Units 14-15
Business Centre West
Avenue 1
Letchworth Garden City
SG6 2HB

Our Bike and Kit Transfer service costs £30 per transfer for Hertfordshire (each way). We can also offer a customised pick-up/drop-off anywhere in the UK. Please contact us to get a price for this personalised service.

 

Single Occupancy Ferry Cabin - Newhaven to Dieppe

A bed in a cabin of shared occupancy is included in the price of the challenge, however, if you prefer to have a cabin for yourself on the ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe, you can upgrade your booking to include a single occupancy cabin. The price for a single occupancy cabin is £120.

Please note that cabins are subject to availability, and if you purchase a cabin and one is not available, we will refund the cost in full.

 

Accommodation - Beauvais

The accommodation on Day 2 is based on two participants sharing and split by male/female or couples if you have booked together. If you would like the comfort of having your own room, you can upgrade to single occupancy for £140.

 

Cycling Jersey 

We also offer a Challenge Central cycling jersey for those who want to show their support for the challenge. Our jersey is made of high-quality materials and comes in both men's and women's sizes. Please note that the tops are designed to be fitted, so if you prefer some extra room, we recommend going one size bigger than you normally would purchase. The price for the cycle jersey is £65.

Product Information:

Club Fit

YKK  Excella Zip

Full Zip Jersey

Three Rear Pocket

Challenge Central Logo & Design printed on Front & Back

Sizing Guide

Please note the tops are designed to be fitted and therefore if you would prefer some extra room in them, we would recommend going one size bigger than you normally would purchase.  

Cycle Jersey - Mens

Cycle Jersey - Ladies

S

M

L

XL

XXL

8

10

12

14

16

38"

40"

42"

44''

46''

32"

   34"    36"     38"

     40"

If you would like to purchase any of our challenge extras, you can add them at the time of booking or by logging onto your booking profile and adding the extras. If you have any questions, please contact us.

London to Paris Cycle Group Photo

WHAT OUR CHALLENGERS SAY

Challenge Central has been successfully helping people overcome some of the toughest, most exciting challenges for many years. Here’s what they have to say about their London to Paris experience with us:

Robbie Seaward, October 2023

The entire team at challenge central were phenomenal! I decided, very last minute, that I wanted to ride a bike to Paris to raise money for brain cancer research! In less than a week, they’d put the entire trip together. But they do much more than the logistics! They helped me up hills that I was battling with and really made the experience an unbelievable one! They also helped with the social media and making the memories last longer!

Robbie 2 Paris


Steve Tinsel, September 2022

It was my first long cycle challenge and I had an amazing trip with Challenge Central, cycling from London to Paris. Couldn't fault the organisation, backup, support, expertise and motivation, Loved every minute.
Here’s to the next one!

Herbalife London to Paris Cycle


Claire S, July 2022

A fantastic experience cycling from London to Paris. The Challenge Central Team were exceptional. Massive thank you to Lorraine, Alan, Mark and Mike for everything. If you’re looking for a challenge I would definitely recommend these guys.

Samantha  B, July 2022

If you want to tick London to Paris off your bucket list as an individual or an organised corporate event, I can’t recommend Challenge Central enough you just couldn’t fault the trip. This has been a long waited challenge pre covid and they have gone over and beyond in organising and accommodating everybody. Big thank you to the team Selina, Alan, Mark, Mike and Lorraine. A memorable trip, meeting great people and new friends. I’m now looking for my next event and will definitely be booking through them again.

AJ, July 2022
Possibly the most enjoyable, rewarding and inspiring experience of my life doing the London to Paris cycle ride with Challenge Central. A super professional and friendly bunch of guys and gals who go out of their way to make sure you get the experience you asked for. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Extremely knowledgeable and will definitely be booking another challenge with them soon.

David Goldsmith, July 2022

“What an amazing challenge run by a fantastic team, I would highly recommend using these guys for any even challenges you are looking to. Thanks again Alan, Mark, Lorraine and Mike. We’ll definitely be booking up another challenge.”

London to Paris Cycle


Melanie S, September 2019

“I have just returned from my third Challenge with Challenge Central and yet again they have exceeded all expectations. The support you receive from the whole team to help you achieve your dreams and reach your goals is outstanding. Whatever your ability there is always a member of the team beside you spurring you on and giving you the encouragement you need to fulfil the Challenge. I’ve not only achieved things I never thought possible but the Challenges have helped me through some tough times and given me a focus. Not only that I’ve raised an amazing £3850 for my disabled Son. From Selina behind the scenes to the amazing Alan, David, Lorraine, Mike, Duncan, Jernej and Steve I thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me achieve my dreams.”


Nick, September 2018

"I was part of the September London to Paris trip and would like to commend the Challenge Central team for running a well organised, brilliantly supported trip. The guides were like family and looked after everyone. All abilities were catered for with constant encouragement to succeed. I feel proud to have taken part but couldn't have done it without Challenge Central.” 

London to Paris Bike Ride


Becky, Lisa, Debbie & Kathy, September 2017

“This was an amazing event that we would definitely recommend to any keen cyclist wishing to challenge themselves. The team were fantastic and supportive every step of the way. Communication was excellent before and during the event and the organisation and logistics were planned to the highest level. We really enjoyed the event throughout and definitely finished with a high sense of achievement. We would definitely recommend Challenge Central to anyone and are already planning our next event with them!”

London to Paris Cycle Event


Anna P, August 2017

"I had a completely fantastic time, the crew (Lorraine, Ben, Paul, Duncan and Mike) were helpful and supportive. The van was visible on numerous occasions to supply drinks, take kit etc -marvelous!!! I am very much hoping to join you all again (Thailand 2018), fingers crossed Paul will be coming as his massage option were a lifesaver.”

 

London to Paris Challenge


Julie, June 2017

"I have always wanted to undertake a cycle challenge but wasn't happy being tied to a charity and having to raise x amount of money. Challenge Central was recommended to me by a friend and was the perfect choice. The organisation and support from staff and fellow cyclists from start to finish was brilliant. BIG thanks goes to the guides - David, Lorraine, Helen and Steve, the drivers Paul and Mike and Selina in the office. Everyone was extremely friendly and knowledgeable and this all added to the experience. I would strongly recommend Challenge Central to everyone so much so I now want to take on London to Amsterdam next year!!"


London  to Paris Cycle testimonial from Julie

Gary, September 2017

“If anyone is looking for a cycle challenge and considering London to Paris, look no further than Challenge Central. From the ease of booking, allowing you to drop your bike off before the event so it is with ease you can make the start with your bike waiting. Then you meet the Guides and support drivers, from here it is just brilliant, they fully understand what you want from this challenge, so if you want to ride hard or at less pace, Challenge Team will support. The guides never leave you and the support van is always near. It is a challenge that is made easier by this great team and if unsure don't worry, just do some training and put your faith in this Company, the sense of achievement will last forever and get signed up for a great cycle ride. Thank you Challenge Central for a lifetime memory of a great 3 days.”

London to Paris Testimonial Gary


If you would like to read other challenge testimonials from our previous participants, you can view them here.

We understand that individuals may have medical conditions that need to be taken into consideration before participating in the challenge. We strongly recommend that you seek advice from your GP or medical specialist to ensure that you are fit enough to take part in the challenge.

Depending on the type and severity of your condition, we may require a letter from a medical professional stating that you are fit enough to participate in the activity. We take the health and safety of all participants and members of staff seriously, and we reserve the right to decline your registration if we believe it may put you or others at risk.

Please refer to section 6.6 in our Terms & Conditions for more information regarding medical conditions and our registration process

To complete the London to Paris challenge, you will need a good level of fitness and endurance. The ride is spread over three days, with each day covering between 55 and 75 miles. You can expect to spend around seven hours each day on your bike, maintaining an average pace of around 13mph. While the challenge is certainly achievable, it is not easy, and you will need to prepare yourself both physically and mentally.

The good news is that you don't need to be an elite cyclist to take part in the London to Paris challenge. The event is open to anyone who is prepared to put in the training and effort required to complete the ride. However, it's important to note that you will need to have a good level of fitness and endurance to complete the ride comfortably.

To prepare for the London to Paris challenge, it's recommended that you undertake a structured training program. This should include a combination of endurance rides, speed work, and strength training. You may also want to consider working with a coach or joining a local cycling club to help you stay motivated and on track with your training.

Ultimately, the key to successfully completing the London to Paris challenge is to approach it with a positive attitude and a willingness to work together as a team. With the right training and preparation, you can achieve this challenging but rewarding goal.

Training is an essential part of preparing for the London to Paris challenge. To complete the ride comfortably, you'll need to build up your endurance, improve your cycling technique, and develop your overall fitness. Here are some tips on how to train effectively for the challenge:

  1. Get out on your bike: Cycling is the best way to prepare for the London to Paris challenge. Aim to get out on your bike as often as possible, building up your endurance gradually over time. Start with shorter rides and gradually increase the distance and duration of your rides. Try to include some hills in your training, as this will help to build your strength and improve your overall fitness.

  2. Practice riding in groups: The London to Paris challenge is a group event, so it's important to get used to riding in a group. Joining a local cycling club or attending group rides will help you to practice your group riding skills, such as drafting and communication.

  3. Use a turbo trainer: If you can't get out on your bike due to bad weather or other factors, a turbo trainer can be a good alternative. This is a device that attaches to your bike, allowing you to cycle indoors. It's a great way to keep up your fitness and get used to your own bike.

  4. Attend spinning classes: Spinning classes are a good way to improve your fitness and cycling technique. They are high-intensity workouts that simulate cycling on a stationary bike. While the intensity of spinning classes is different from the London to Paris challenge, they can still be a useful addition to your training program.

  5. Strength training: Strength training is an important part of cycling training. Exercises such as squats, leg extensions, hamstring curls, and calf raises can all help to improve your leg strength, which is essential for cycling.

  6. Allow sufficient time for training: We recommend that participants undertake physical activity for at least 3 months leading up to the challenge. All challengers will receive a training plan to help support their training.

  7. Get comfortable with cleats/SPD's: If you're cycling with cleats/SPD's, it's important to be comfortable with them ahead of the challenge. Practice clipping in and out of your pedals to ensure you can do it with ease.

Remember to listen to your body and adjust your training program as necessary. With the right training and preparation, you can successfully complete the London to Paris challenge.

Yes, you can view the route ahead of the London to Paris challenge. The route is available on the event page, under the "Route" tab. This will give you a general idea of the route and the places you'll be passing through.

If you require more detailed information about the route, such as elevation profiles, rest stops, or potential hazards, please contact us.

It's a good idea to familiarise yourself with the route ahead of time so you know what to expect during the challenge. You can also use this information to plan your training rides, incorporating hills or other features of the route into your training program.

Remember that the route may be subject to change due to factors such as road works, weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances.

During the London to Paris challenge, you will need to make sure you have enough food and drink to keep you fueled and hydrated throughout the ride. While there will be opportunities to purchase food and drinks at rest stops, it's important to come prepared with your own supplies as well.

For the evening meals on Day 1 and 2, a meal will be provided, with a choice of four dishes on Day 1 and a hot buffet on Day 2. For the rest of the ride, you will need to bring your own food. We recommend packing non-perishable foods for Day 1 and 2, such as energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, and sandwiches. You can store your packed lunches in your rucksack and leave them in the support vehicle.

It's important to stay hydrated during the ride, especially if it's a hot day. The support vehicles will carry large canisters of tap water, so you don't need to bring too many bottles of water with you. However, it's a good idea to bring a water bottle or hydration pack with you so you can easily access water while you ride.

In addition to water, you'll want to bring snacks and drinks that will give you a steady supply of energy throughout the ride. Fast-releasing sources of energy such as bananas, energy bars, gels, sweets, and nuts are all good options. Make sure you bring enough to last you throughout the day, and consider bringing a little extra in case you need it.

Remember, proper nutrition and hydration are key to a successful and enjoyable ride, so plan ahead and come prepared with plenty of food and drink to keep you going!

No, you will not be left behind if you are slow. The challenge is designed to be achievable for a range of fitness levels, and there will be Challenge Central leaders at the front and back of the group to ensure that everyone stays together and no one is left behind. The leaders will set a comfortable pace for the group and will take regular breaks to allow everyone to rest and re-group.

It's important to note that while the leaders will do their best to keep the group together, it's also up to each individual participant to pace themselves appropriately and ensure they have enough energy to complete each day's cycling. If you are struggling, don't be afraid to speak up and let the leaders know - they may be able to offer support or advice to help you continue.

Overall, you can rest assured that you will not be left behind if you are slow. The Challenge Central leaders are there to support and encourage you throughout the journey, and the challenge is designed to be achievable for everyone with the right preparation and mindset.

If you get a puncture during the challenge, don't worry as our support team will be on hand to assist you. We recommend that you bring with you at least 2 spare inner tubes and a puncture repair kit. Our support vehicle will also carry spare inner tubes, tyres and other necessary equipment to assist with any mechanical issues.

During the challenge, our support vehicle will be following the group and will be able to provide assistance quickly. Our team will help to fix punctures or other mechanical issues so that you can continue with the ride. If the issue cannot be resolved on the road, we will arrange for your bike to be taken to a local bike shop for repair.

It is important that you know how to fix a puncture before the challenge. We recommend practicing this before the event to ensure that you are confident and prepared.

While you can use a mountain bike for the challenge, we strongly recommend using a road or hybrid bike. Mountain bikes are heavier and typically have wider, knobbly tyres which can make cycling long distances on paved roads more difficult and slower.

If you do decide to use a mountain bike, we recommend fitting slick tyres, which have a smoother, more streamlined tread pattern than traditional mountain bike tyres, to help reduce friction and increase speed on the road. Keep in mind that road bikes or hybrids are generally more suitable for this challenge and will provide a more comfortable and efficient ride.

The Eurostar offer Euro Despatch from Paris and do have a limited number of spaces per train. To check availability, you can email Euro Despatch. Please check their website for the most up to date information.

This information has been provided by Eurostar October 2017. 

Yes, Challenge Central can transport your bike to London for the start of the challenge and bring it back from Paris for you. You can store your bike (and kit if required) in Hertfordshire before the challenge, and Challenge Central will transport it to London for you on Day 1.

Additionally, they can bring your belongings back from France on Day 3 for you to collect at a pre-arranged time within two weeks. The cost for each way is £25, and you can add this option at the time of booking or by logging onto your booking profile and adding the extras.

It is recommended that you wait until your place on the challenge has been fully confirmed before booking your return journey. This is because your place on the ferry is not guaranteed until the event reaches its minimum participant level or three months before the challenge begins. Once your place on the ferry has been secured, Challenge Central will notify you, and you can then make arrangements for your return journey.

To travel to Paris, you will need to bring your valid passport with you as it is a requirement for the ferry. Please make sure to state your full name as per your passport when registering for the challenge. It is also recommended to check whether your nationality requires you to obtain a visa to enter France. You may use websites such as https://www.ivisa.com/visa-requirements/ to check for visa requirements.

Additionally, it is recommended to obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which is free for UK, EEA, or Swiss citizens, to get state healthcare at a reduced cost or for free in other EEA countries and Switzerland. However, note that this should not replace your travel insurance, which is still required. It is important to have a copy of your valid travel insurance document with you, and the policy should cover you for the activity you are undertaking, including your bike.

There will be at least two cycle leaders in every group; one at the front and one at the back. Depending on the size of the group, there may be additional leaders interspersed within the group to ensure everyone's safety and wellbeing.

No, you will not have to cycle with all your belongings. The support vehicle will transport your luggage and anything else that you don't need with you while cycling to the next destination. You will only need to carry essentials such as water, snacks, and any personal items you might need while cycling. This will make your cycling journey much more comfortable and enjoyable.

During the challenge, the support vehicle will meet the group at designated points along the route where you can access your belongings and refuel. However, it may not be possible for the support vehicle to be with the group at all times, especially when cycling on certain routes or tracks that are not accessible by the vehicle. In such cases, the support vehicle will meet the group at the next designated point. Rest assured that the support vehicle is always within a reasonable distance of the group in case of any emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.

The remaining balance is due three calendar months before the event start date. A member of the Challenge Central team will be in contact around this time to advise on the payment options.

On Day 2, you will be staying in a minimum of 3-star accommodation. The specific accommodation will depend on the route and availability, but we ensure that all rooms are ensuite and suitable for their purpose. Participants will be sharing twin rooms split between males and females, or couples if they booked together. If you would like to upgrade to single occupancy, you can do so during the booking process. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.

All challengers must be over the age of 18 (or 15 and over if accompanied by an adult taking part who will have full responsibility of the child during the trip).

It is recommended that you carry a small backpack or a bento box attached to your crossbar to hold enough food and drink for the duration of your cycling leg, which should not exceed 30 miles. It's important to carry water bottles, snacks, and energy gels to keep your energy and fluid levels maintained.

It is required that all challengers carry two spare inner tubes throughout the challenge. You can leave extras in the support vehicle, which should be re-stocked at designated stops. Additionally, a puncture repair kit, including a pump, should be carried in case you have already used your spare inner tubes and another repair is necessary.

We also recommend carrying a lightweight windbreaker in case of sudden changes in weather or for emergency situations.

Unfortunately, we cannot predict the weather however we do advise you to have layers of cycling clothing as you can increase/decrease your layers as the challenge (and weather) progresses! Items can be left/picked up when the van meets you at rest stops. The mornings can be often cooler especially on Day 2 when leaving the ferry.

You are required to have your own travel insurance and it will need to cover you for cycling activities. If you have travel insurance already, we recommend you contact your provider and inform them of your challenge to see if you require further cover.

Visit British Cycling website for extra support and information on this topic.

Yes, there will be an opportunity on Day 1 to freshen up before sleeping on the ferry. We book a hotel in Newhaven specifically for this purpose, where you can take a shower and freshen up before boarding the ferry. Additionally, there are also showers available in the cabins on the ferry.

The luggage allowance on the ferry depends on the ferry company and type of ticket purchased. Please refer to your ticket confirmation or contact the ferry company directly to confirm the luggage allowance. As a general rule, foot passengers are typically allowed one piece of hand luggage and may be asked to leave larger items behind. It is recommended to only bring essential items with you onto the ferry and leave any non-essential items with the support vehicle.

As with any major city, there is an absolutely huge range of accommodation available in Paris.

Below are some our recommendations of accommodation close to the finish point at Trocadéro or near the Eiffel Tower.

St Christopers Hostels Paris 

Best Western Au Trocadéro 3*

Mercure Paris Central Eiffel Tower Hotel 4*

he challenge cost is based on participants sharing a twin room. If you are joining the challenge as an individual or in a group with an odd number, you will be subject to a single supplement charge unless another participant of the same sex signs up in the same situation. In this instance, we will place you both together in a twin room. If you have a preference to stay in a room of your own or if another person of the same sex doesn’t sign up on their own or in an odd group number, you can purchase a single occupancy room at an additional cost. The single supplement cost varies depending on the challenge and can be found on the challenge information page or by contacting us directly.

Any lost property can be collected from our HQ in Letchworth, Hertfordshire or we can post the belongings out to you. If posted, please note you will be charged P&P plus a £10 admin fee in advance of the items being delivered. Please refer to 6.5 in our Terms & Conditions.

Time before start of the challenge Deposit refund
More than 3 Months 50% Refund of Price Paid
(excluding challenge deposit)
OR
Transfer to Another Event within 18 months
(excluding challenge deposit)
Between 1-3 Months 0% Refund
HOWEVER
Transfer to Another Event within 18 months
(excluding challenge deposit)
Less than 1 Month 0% Refund
AND
No Transfer

Please refer to section 9 of our Terms & Conditions for full details.

Yes, Challenge Central have both public and employer liability cover from our Tour Operator insurance. This covers us for the costs of legal fees resulting from claims of negligence against Challenge Central. If you would like to view a copy, please get in contact.

Our insurance does not cover participants personally if Challenge Central is not at fault. You are required to have suitable travel insurance for the activities you are undertaking.