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London to Amsterdam Cycle


Dates Availability

5th - 6th July 2024
Full Price: £575    Deposit Only: £150
BOOK NOW

6th - 7th September
Full Price: £575    Deposit Only: £150
BOOK NOW
 
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Limited Availability    
 
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The London to Amsterdam Cycle is a 2-day, 136-mile Cycle Tour from the centre of London to the lively capital city of Holland.

Join us for a cycle to Amsterdam, a true cosmopolitan melting pot, from one of London’s most historic landmarks on an epic weekend adventure.

Between these two bustling capitals, two days of cycling await following a challenging route through some of the most beautiful countryside and coastal areas both countries have to offer.

The London to Amsterdam Cycle is supported by the Challenge Central team along the way, with our vehicle carrying any personal belongings you may need to Amsterdam. The support vehicle is never far away and will meet us at every checkpoint where you will have access to your belongings.

You will also have the option for your bikes to be transported back to the UK following the challenge – allowing you to explore Amsterdam in all of its glory!

Please note the price of the challenge includes the overnight ferry to Holland but does not include accommodation in Amsterdam or your return to the UK.

There are no charity commitments so you are free to raise money for any charity of your choice, or simply take on The London to Amsterdam Cycle for a personal challenge without a minimum fundraising obligation.

 

London to Amsterdam Cycle

 

Day 1 - London to Harwich – 83 miles

The challenge begins at Carlton House Terrace, London (SW1Y 5AH) at 9:00. Here you will meet the Challenge Central team and of course your fellow cyclists! We will travel a short distance on foot to our starting point in Trafalgar Square, where we will depart at 10:00.

We will head out of the capital towards the port in Harwich, traveling through the lovely, meandering country roads of Essex. Whilst smooth roads will allow us to pick up the pace, the terrain is both undulating and challenging – although we will have refreshment stops along the way! 

Our evening on the overnight ferry to Holland is a fairly luxurious affair with restaurants, bars, a cinema, and the all-important free wifi onboard! Cabins have en-suite showers, towels and bedding provided.

For even further comfort, it is also possible to upgrade your cabin accommodation to single occupancy at an additional charge, subject to availability.

 

Day 2 - Hook of Holland to Amsterdam – 53 miles

Our ferry will arrive at approximately 07:45 local time at the Hook of Holland. From here we embark on a truly magnificent coastal ride before heading into the heart of Holland. After refueling at lunch in Katwijk, we push on for the final 30 miles to the wonderful Amsterdam Art Square.

The challenge concludes around 16:00. You have the option of your bike being transported back to Hertfordshire for collection during the week, allowing you the freedom to explore the streets, canals and parks of this most vibrant city at your leisure. Our team regularly stay in Amsterdam and we welcome all challengers to enjoy a well-deserved drink or two in the evening!

The return from Amsterdam is not included in the trip so will need to be arranged personally by each challenger.

The Challenge Central support vehicle can however transfer bikes and any personal belongings back to the UK for a Hertfordshire collection for an additional fee. Belongings can be collected from Letchworth, Hertfordshire at an arranged time from the following Monday evening.

 

 

London to Amsterdam Cycle Graphic

 

What’s included:

>> Support Vehicle

>> Cycle Leaders

>> Overnight Ferry (Day 1)

>> Lunch (Days 1 & 2)*

>> London to Amsterdam Finisher Medal

>> Light Refreshments & Fluids

*Specific Restaurants

 

What's not included:

>> Equipment

>> Personal Insurance

>> Food

>> Accommodation in Amsterdam

>> Transport back from Amsterdam

 

All Challenge Central events require a minimum participation level in order to operate. On very rare occasions if this level is not reached with 3 months to go, we may unfortunately have to cancel the challenge date. Bookings can either be refunded in full or transferred to another Challenge Central event within the next 18 months. 

Your London to Amsterdam booking also cannot be 100% confirmed until we have secured your place on the ferry. If the situation arises whereby the ferry is full at the time we book, we will of course refund your deposit. We strongly suggest you therefore do not purchase your return journey until we have fully confirmed your place. 

Please find our full Terms and Conditions here.

 

London to Amsterdam Group Photo

Downloadable Check List available here

Bike Clothing:

>> Bike Helmet (compulsory)

>> Bike Gloves

>> Padded Cycling Shorts

>> Cycling Tops / T-Shirts

>> Waterproof / Warm Cycling Clothing (having layers of clothing on will also help to keep you warm)

>> High Viz Vest / Clothing

>> Cycle Shoes and Socks

 

Other Clothing:

>> Casual Clothing (for when not cycling) Please ensure you have warm items of clothing for when waiting to board the ferry

>> Shoes / Trainers

 

Bike Kit:

>> Bike

>> Bell (legally required in Holland)

>> Bright Bike Lights / Head Torch (the mornings can be very dark)

>> Water Bottle / Camelbak (to be used while cycling)

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

>> Tyre Levers

>> Bike Tools and Pump

>> Spare Inner Tubes x4

>> 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 Bag (for wet clothes)

 

Hygiene & Health:

>> Toiletries

>> Sun Protection

>> Flannel / Hand Towel

>> Anti-Insect Spray

>> Anti-Chafe Cream

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

>> Prescribed Medication (if applicable)

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

 

Nutrition (suggestions only):

Cycling 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

London to Amsterdam Cycle

Day 1 - London to Harwich - 83 miles

Schedule (please view as a guide only)

Start: Trafalgar Square 10:00

Mini Break: Leytonstone (at 9 miles) 

Hour Break: Writtle (at 35 miles) 

Mini Break: Colchester (at 60 miles) 

Finish: Harwich (at 83 miles) 20:30

 

Day 2 - Hook of Holland to Amsterdam - 53 miles

Schedule (please view as a guide only)

Start: Hook of Holland 09:00

Hour Break: Katwijk (at 23 miles)

Finish: Art Square (at 53 miles) 16:00

Upgrades and Extras

All of the following extras can be purchased during booking process of the challenge.

Bike and Kit Transfer - Pre and Post Challenge

We understand travelling into London and back from Holland with your bike / kit can be challenging. We offer a transport service to take away the stress by bringing your bike and belongings to London for you on Day 1 and transporting them to Hertfordshire after the event for collection. 

If you would like to take advantage of this option, please add the extra to your booking and then contact us directly to arrange.

£30.00 per transfer for Hertfordshire (each way)

We can also offer a customised pick up / drop off service in London and other major cities in England. Please contact us to get a price for this personalised service.

 

Cycling Jersey

Last chance to buy our orange Amsterdam specific top

Details can be found on our clothing page.

Product Information:

YKK Excella®

Zip Tri-section pocket Front 1/4 zip

London to Amsterdam and Challenge Central logo

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.  

Sizes Remain:

Mens Medium / Large

Ladies 12 / 14 / 16

£45.00 each

 

New - CC Cycle Tours Top

Details can be found on our clothing page.

Product Information:

Club Fit

YKK Excella® Zip

Full Zip

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

Cycling Jersey - Mens

Cycling Jersey - Ladies

S

M

L

XL

XXL

8

10

12

14

16

38"

40"

42"

44''

46''

32"

34"

36"

38"

40"

£62.00 each

 

Ferry Cabin - From Harwich to Hook of Holland

Cabins are allocated based on a male / female split or by groups who sign up to the challenge together in the most suitable options available at the time we book the ferry. People who wish to have a cabin of their own or in smaller groups, can purchase at an additional fee.

Single Birth Ferry Cabin Upgrade 

This standard cabin for 1 person is located on the inside of the ship and you'll find:

Bunk bed (lower 200cm x 90cm and upper bed 200cm x 80cm) with duvet and linen

Bathroom with: sink, shower, toilet, towels, shampoo and soap

Flat screen satellite television

Desk / Dressing table

Wardrobe

Sofa

£89.00

 

4 Birth Ferry Cabin Upgrade

There is the option to purchase a 4-birth cabin if you would like to share with your cycling friends/family on the event.

£109.00

 

Please note our price is based on the standard cabin type. If this is not available at the time of booking the ferry, there may be an option to pay more for a different type of cabin however we would consult you first to seek approval for the extra cost. If no cabin is available or you do not wish to pay more for a cabin, we will refund the cost of the cabin to you. 

If you would like to purchase any of our challenge extras, they can be selected at the time of booking or from your booking profile once registered. Alternatively, please contact us.

London to Amsterdam Cycle Challenge

 

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 Amsterdam experience with us:

Nick Goldberg, September, 2022

“Challenge Central were invaluable to us in enabling our charity ride from London to Amsterdam. Nothing was too much for them, they handled our challenge and our team of cyclists with varied abilities with care, consideration and professionalism. We now consider the CC team firm friends and wouldn't hesitate to use them again. 5 stars.”

Rebecca, September 2022

“We have just completed the London to Amsterdam Challenge with Challenge Central. We could never have achieved our goal if it wasn’t for the AMAZING team, Steve, Dave and the wonderful Kelly! Honestly, their preparation, professionalism and FUN made this trip one of the best I have ever done! Thanks a million!!”

Chantal, September 2022

“Our group had a fantastic experience with the CC team (Steve, Kelly and David). They took care of every detail seamlessly and couldn’t do enough to help us with muddy tyres, loading bikes, repairing punctures etc. so that we could focus on getting the challenge completed and raising funds for our charity. They were the perfect balance of professional and personable, bringing humour, energy, fun and morale. We felt like we were in safe hands at all times and learnt a thing or two about cycling from our super athlete guides! Thank you team CC.”

Sabrina, September 2022

“Thank you Steve, Kelly and Dave for the most memorable few days on our London to Amsterdam cycle. I have only been a road cyclist for a few months but I officially have the cycle bug!! Challenge Central considered all elements of each day removing any stress so that we could focus on our ride. We could not have asked for a better team... laughter, tears... still buzzing! Can't wait for our next adventure!!”

Lerona Goldberg, September 2022

“I literally could not fault these event organisers! Challenge Central made my vision of doing something almost impossible, an absolute dream!! We have all had the time of our lives and have felt nothing but support and admiration for the whole Challenge Central team. What a team they are!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for making this a reality. London to Amsterdam, done! Bring on the challenge, which I know will only be possible with this awesome crew leading us there. Thank you, love you guys!!! Xxx”

London to Amstedam by Wheelchair


Ramandeep, July 2022

“A group of 7 of us booked the London to Amsterdam ride through Challenge Central. We can't thank the team enough for their support and tips to help us complete the ride. The organisation was superb - from the planned stops, to the delicious meals to keeping us hydrated, they were fantastic.  We will be booking London to Paris next year! :-)”

Aman, July 2022

“This company is honestly the best I have encountered for challenges. They are extremely knowledgable and organised. No one was left behind and they support you all the way. There was a group of 6 of us friends who had never done anything like this before and they made sure we all felt like part of the team. They had regular checks on anyone at the back and made sure that no one got lost. Was an amazing experience so a big thank you to the team at Challenge Central.”

London to Amsterdam Cycle Ride


Jim, July 2019

“Huge thanks to Alan and the fantastic team. The trip exceeded my expectations and I am eager to do more challenges in the future. A truly memorable experience”

London to Amsterdam Cycle


Chris, July 2019

"Well organised and very engaging leaders made the challenge fun and pushed us all to complete the ride. The various paces meant everyone was involved and no-one felt pressured, whilst wanting to complete the challenge. An excellent run event and one that I would absolutely recommend to others."

London to Amsterdam Cycle


Rob, September 2017

"Once again, a great trip - the team always take good care of you and adapt the pace to everyone's availability. The guides are patient, knowledgeable,  and your safety is always very important to them. Thanks for looking after us from London to Amsterdam.


Catherine, July 2017

"I cycled the London to Amsterdam Challenge this Summer. I have to say the challenge was incredible. Challenge Central thought of everything; they pre-ordered drinks and food at each stop and I felt safe on the road with the group. The van was also with us every step of the way so we didn't have to carry anything on our bikes. I was not the fastest in the group and the Challenge Central team were always there to guide you and not rushing off with the main group. I think we all had the best night's sleep on the ferry, the food was lovely in the restaurant and we enjoyed a well-deserved beer too. I did this on my own and did not know anyone in the group; the team from Challenge Central were so friendly and put you at ease. To cycle through Holland from the ferry was a beautiful route; all cycle lanes through sand dunes, greenhouses by the sides of the road, on straight roads with cycle lanes past canals with windmills and ducks; absolutely charming! Thank you Challenge Central; I am already thinking of the London to Paris Challenge for next year."

London to Amsterdam Cycle Challenge


Helen, July 2017

"On route to the meet point I was very apprehensive as I had no idea what to expect etc. this was all alleviated from the moment I arrived, the guides were immediately welcoming and quashed any fears I had about the event. This support carried on from that moment to moment we arrived in Amsterdam! The planning, their knowledge of the route, even down to them finding an alternative place for us to dine on day two, as the planned stop was too noisy due to an unknown event happening in the area, and them supporting a member of the team who unfortunately fell ill on the route, in short absolutely fantastic! I'm already thinking about my next one!"

London to Paris Cycle


Jernej, September 2016

"I did a lot of cycling in the past, but this was my first event in UK. Only thumbs up for organising and leading all participants in the best and safest way throughout the event. Love how the whole team was working in the way that participants could finish the course. Special thanks to supporting van and all laughs we had on this wonderful event."

London to Amsterdam Cycling Challenge


Emily, July 2016

"What an amazing trip! Thank you to Challenge Central for organising it all so well and to all involved for making it so much fun!"

London to Amsterdam


"A truly exceptional and well organised London to Amsterdam cycle. From the moment I registered, the information provided was very helpful. I found the itinerary a great help and couldn't fault any of the communications at all. We were well looked after in all aspects by great guides who couldn't have been friendlier. A support vehicle which was always nearby was very comforting and lovely well-chosen rest-points. The ride into Amsterdam was exceptional. There was a guide for every level. The stronger, faster riders who wanted to really push on could do so, the average paced riders could go at their pace and the not-so-strong who wanted to take it all in weren't left without support. It was perfect. I'd recommend London to Amsterdam with CC for every level of cyclist. This is my second Challenge Central event and I'll certainly do more challenges with CC.”

Steve, July 2017

London to Amsterdam Cycling Challenge


"I would like to say a big thank you to Team Challenge Central for their help, guidance and enthusiasm for this trip. It was most definitely an amazing experience and most definitely an achievement. It is not for the light-hearted, it does really take a lot out of you but if you’re mentally and physically prepared, this will be an enjoyable and exciting challenge to sign up for.

I feared I would struggle having only started cycling 7 months prior to the event however, with the motivation from Alan, David and Rob, I was able to see light at the end of the tunnel and cycled the whole way from London to Amsterdam! Team Challenge Central do really look after you from the minute you sign up."

Jiten, September 2015

London to Amsterdam Cycle


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

Read our most popular Cycling blogs:

Group Cycling Safety

Cycling in the Dark

London to Amsterdam - Frequently Asked Questions

UK Cycling Tours

You can view all our blogs here.

London to Amsterdam Cycle

 

Cycling the distance of 136 miles over two 2 days is no easy task but providing you are currently active, this challenge is certainly achievable for an average level of fitness.

Relevance training is always key when planning for any event. In this case, you are cycling quite a long way so your first point of training should be out on your bike. We would also strongly advise where possible, to get experience cycling in close proximity of other cyclists.

If the glorious UK weather does not allow any outdoor cycling then a turbo trainer, which uses your own bike would be a suitable replacement. This means you can get used to your own bike whilst cycling in the comfort of your home.

Spinning classes are another excellent way of preparing you for the London to Amsterdam cycle although the intensity vs time will be different to the challenge. A spinning class is normally a high intensity blast of 45 minutes whereas the event will see you cycling all day at a much lower intensity.

The gym can also be used to help strengthen muscles required for cycling. Exercises such as squats, leg extensions, hamstring curls and calf raises will all help to increase leg strength.

When training, you should be aiming to cycle between 12 – 15mph.                                    

We encourage in the build up to the challenge, participants undertake physical activity for at least 3 months. All challengers will receive a plan to help support with their training.

If you are cycling with cleats/SPD's, you will need to be able to clip in/out with ease so please ensure you are comfortable with these shoes/pedals ahead of the challenge.

 

Please note you are responsible for your own food for this challenge. There will be plenty of opportunities to purchase food / snacks throughout the challenge at breaks / stops.

You will need a steady supply of energy whilst you are cycling so keeping fast releasing sources of energy such as bananas, energy bars, gels, sweets and nuts with you on the bike is essential.

We carry large canisters of water on the support vans (tap water in large containers) so it is not essential that you bring lots of bottles of water / drinks with you. There will be places on route to purchase additional fluids if required.

The ferry will take approximately 8 hours with the ferry departing England around 23:00 (depending on the tide).

You will have bedding and a towel to use in the cabin.

The cabin allocation is based on participants sharing and will be split male / female or by groups who sign up to the challenge together in the most suitable options available at the time we make the ferry booking. If you would like to have a cabin on your own or in smaller groups, we can request this for you (subject to availability) however please note there will be an additional charge.

Please contact us at the time of making your deposit to arrange.

This can be found on the route tab of the event page however if you require any further details about the route please contact us.

No one will be left behind. There will always be a Challenge Central leader at the front and back of the group to show the way. They will ensure that the group regularly re-groups and that no one is left behind.

We suggest purchasing puncture resistant tyres or using inner tubes with special gel inside, which help to seal the puncture. Failing that, you should have the kit with you to fix punctures and our leaders will always be there to assist if there is a problem.

The remaining balance is due 3 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.

You can, however we do recommend using road or at least hybrid bikes. Mountain bikes are heavy and can make the challenge tougher than it needs to be. If you are going to use a mountain bike, we suggest using a set of slick tyres to help decrease friction and increase speed.

If you would like Challenge Central to bring your bike / kit back for you, we can take them to our base in Hertfordshire where you can arrange pickup on your return to England within 2 weeks from the Monday after the challenge.

For £25 each way, you can travel to London and / or back from Amsterdam without the hassle of commuting with your bike. If you would like to take advantage of this service, please contact us.

Please note your booking will not be 100% confirmed until we have secured your place on the ferry. We aim to book the ferry as soon as the event has reached minimum participant level or 3 months before the challenge commences.

We strongly suggest you therefore do not purchase your return journey until we have fully confirmed your place with you.

Passport

You must have your valid passport with you for the ferry.

Please ensure you state your full name as per your passport when registering for the challenge with us. You can manage your booking information here.

You may also wish to look at: https://www.britishpassportsuk.co.uk/travel-planner.html for further information.

Visa

We recommend you check to see whether your nationality requires you to need a visa to enter into The Netherlands. A suggested website to find out is: https://www.ivisa.com/visa-requirements/ 

EHIC Card

You are entitled to a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you’re from the UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland.

An EHIC lets you get state healthcare in other EEA countries and Switzerland at a reduced cost or sometimes for free.

We recommend you having an EHIC card however please note this should not replace your travel insurance; this is still required.

To apply or renew, please visit gov.uk website.

Travel Insurance

Please ensure you have a copy of your valid travel insurance document with you. The policy must cover you for the activity you are undertaking and preferably you should have insurance to cover your bike as well as you.

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

There is always a Challenge Central leader at both the front and back of the group. Depending on the group size, there may also be additional leaders interspersed within the group.

No the support vehicle will carry anything you do not need with you whilst you are cycling.

The support vehicle cannot be with us at all times as some of the route cannot be accessed such as when we are on cycle tracks.

There are designated points where we will meet up with the support team throughout the route but the vehicle is never more than approx. 30mins away if required in certain circumstances.

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

You should carry enough food and drink to last you whilst cycling (30 miles max). We advise that all challengers have water bottles, small backpack or a bento box (this is attached to your cross bar) whilst riding with sweets/snacks/gels to keep your energy/fluid levels maintained.

We ask that all challengers carry two spare inner tubes at all times throughout the challenge. Extras can be left in the support vehicle, which should be re-stocked at our designated stops.

A puncture repair kit including a pump should also be carried with you just in case you have already used your spare inner tubes and another repair is required.

We also suggest you carry a lightweight windjammer in case it suddenly turns cold or for an emergency.

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.

 

There are many B&B’s and hotels in the area for you to choose from although some will require a minimum of 2 night stays. As accommodation after the challenge is not included in the package, we have no specific recommendations however as suggestions to start your search, we have listed below some that are near our finish point in Art Square.

Hotel City Garden Amsterdam 3*

XO Hotel Inner 3*

Bilderberg Hotel Jan Luyken 4*

We strongly recommend anyone who has a medical condition should seek approval from their GP / Consultant before signing up to a challenge. When registering for the event, you are agreeing to be fit and healthy enough to take part. 

The Health and safety of all participants and members of staff are paramount to us. 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 undergo the activity. Please refer to 6.6 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.

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.

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.

 

EHIC Card

You are entitled to a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you’re from the UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland.

An EHIC lets you get state healthcare in other EEA countries and Switzerland at a reduced cost or sometimes for free.

We recommend you having an EHIC card however please note this should not replace your travel insurance; this is still required.

To apply or renew, please visit gov.uk website.

 

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.