What’s included…

• ACCOMMODATION - Three nights during the challenge. All rooms are shared twin en-suite rooms. If you would like your own room, we can arrange for you, but additional costs apply.

• FOOD & DRINK- breakfast, lunch, and evening meals all provided. Breakfast not provided on Day 1.

• TRAVEL - All the travel required within the challenge.

• MECHANICAL SUPPORT - 24/7 support from our event team, professional medical team, bike mechanics, and partners from sign-up to return. Any bike parts are at an additional cost.

• MEDICAL SUPPORT - Qualified paramedics will travel with us and provide any level of medical assistance should it be required. If you are unsure about the event, we can arrange for you to discuss any concerns with our medical team in advance.

• BIKE RETURN - Transport of your bike back to London after the event. If you’d like it sent to a specific location or stored by our team beyond the trip, this can be arranged, but additional costs may apply.

• RETURN TRAVEL - from Topsham after the challenge.

• HOTEL UPGRADE - If you wish to upgrade your hotel for your stay in Paris, we can arrange this, but additional costs apply.

• CERTAIN FOOD & DRINKS - Alcohol or specialist food you may require. Please discuss with TFA Events if you require anything.

• BIKE RENTAL – This is available for all at an additional cost.

• INSURANCE - You must have bicycle liability insurance, medical insurance, and travel insurance, which you will need to arrange yourself.

CLICK HERE for the full training guide as recommended by TFA Events.

TRAINING INFORMATION

• Plan your training

• Build hydration and fueling into every training ride

• Remember to stretch before and after your training

• If you can eat soon after training

Do get in touch with us if you have any questions, and our full terms and conditions are available in the footer of this page.

DAY 1 - London to Marlborough| 63 miles | Elevation gain 735m | MAP

We’ll set off from London shortly after 09:30 am, after the morning rush hour.

As it is Day 1, there are frequent stops and the pace is gentle to allow us to get into the challenge. It won’t take too long for us to wind our way out of Lambrook and enter the peace and quiet of the Surrey, Kent & Sussex countrysides.

The morning ride is sometimes described as hilly; we’ll be honest, it is, but this is the toughest section of the whole ride. After regular stops to recharge, we’ll stop at a lovely country pub for a really well-earned lunch.

After lunch, we will continue our journey to Newhaven, but you’ll be pleased to hear, the route is predominantly downhill. Our snack stops by Coulsdon, Haywards Heath & Plumpton Green will keep you going, and upon arrival in Newhaven, there will be facilities available for you to use to freshen up for your night on the ferry.

As we wait for the overnight ferry, we will have an evening meal, and you will get a well-earned break and be able to reflect on completing the hardest cycling day during your evening meal on the ferry.

We will board the ferry at 11.00 pm and you will be in 4-berth cabins. Get to sleep as quickly as you can, as the morning ferry alarm will wake you up at 5.00 am!

DAY 2 -Dieppe to Beauvais, 68 miles
Elevation gain 518m | GPX File | MAP

After an early wake-up call, we will make our way off the ferry and have breakfast to get us ready for day 2 of cycling.

You’ll be pleased to hear that the route on Day 2 is considerably flatter and largely traffic-free. Cycling starts around 6:30 a.m., with a short section to the Avenue Verte, a flat and paved traffic-free cycle route.

After several short stops, and having covered 35 miles, we will break for snacks in the delightful French village, of Forges-Les-Eaux.

After this short stop, we will be back on the road for a 16-mile stretch to Gournay-en-Bray where we will stop for a short break. After this break, we will be back on the Avenue Verte for the final 18m stretch to Beauvais. Again there are plenty of snack stations along the beautiful tree line route.

Upon arrival in Beauvais, you will have time to relax, freshen up, and reflect on Day 2. Do explore the town, it is a hidden gem of a town and the Cathedral is breathtaking. Later that day we will meet for an evening in one of the local restaurants, where you’ll also have the chance to enjoy some local food and wine before you sink into bed ahead of our final day, the ride to Paris!

DAY 3 -Beauvais to Paris, 62 miles
Elevation gain 635m

By now, your legs may be aching and fatigue may be setting in, so we won’t get you out of bed too early. We’ll gather after a full breakfast and aim to set off by 8.00am. There are a few hills to conquer on this leg, but by now you’ll be ready for them.

After a well-earned lunch stop, Paris will soon be in our sights. Savor that triumphant feeling as you cycle towards the Eiffel Tower where the fizz will be flowing. You’re welcome to invite friends and family to join the team cheering you safely into Paris.

Do tell them to contact us to get further details and where to meet us. After the initial celebration under the Eiffel Tower, we’ll check into our hotel and head to a local restaurant for a celebratory meal.

On the following day, we will return home where you will be reunited with your bike. If you are staying on longer do let us know as soon as possible so we can make necessary arrangements for your travel home and bike storage (charges may apply).

Please contact us to discuss what would be best for you as soon as you can so we can plan the best way to support you.

INSURANCE

You must have your own travel, medical, and cycling insurance to cover you for this type of cycling activity.

Travel Insurance - covers you for the damage, loss, or theft of your possessions, your bike, and any other items you bring with you.

Cycling insurance - covers you for taking part in this type of cycling activity. Please ensure you have third-party cover as well as additional medical costs. Visit the British Cycling or Yellow Jersey (use MYCYCLE10 to get a 10% discount) website for more information. There are plenty of other providers as well.

Medical Insurance - You should also ensure that you have cover for all medical treatment and emergencies you may need, evacuation, and repatriation back to the UK or your home country.

If you have travel insurance already, please ensure you contact your provider and inform them of your challenge.

Do get in touch with us if you have any questions and our full terms and conditions are available in the footer of this page.

ClOTHING & EQUIPMENT

• A bike that has been serviced in the last six months

• Helmet

• Bell (Legal requirement in France)

• Working front and rear lights

• Front and rear reflectors

• Water bottle and bottle cage fitted to the bike

• Four spare inner-tubes or we can provide - from £10 per inner-tube.

• Bike bag or saddle pack (not essential)

• Comfortable cycling shoes

• Padded Cycling shorts

• Cycling gloves

• Comfortable cycling tops/t-shirts (one per day)

• Waterproof & warm cycling clothing (start of day 2 can be cold)

• Change clothing for three days away (when not cycling)

• Shoes/Trainers/Flip Flops

• Small Hand Towel

• Main bag for all your luggage

• Day pack for essentials

• Prescribed medicine (please let us know in advance)

• Mobile phone, tablet, laptop.

• Phone or laptop charger

• Earphones/headphones

• Camera (though we do have a photographer)

• European plug adapter

• Toiletries

• Sun Protection

• Ear plugs

• A good book!

DOCUMENTATION

• Passport (must be valid for at least six months after your return home date)

• Travel Insurance which includes your bike - compulsory on our challenges.

• Medical Insurance - You should also ensure that you have cover for all medical treatment and emergencies you may need, evacuation, and repatriation back to the UK or your home country.

• Cycling Insurance - this is a requirement for this trip. See above.

• European or Global Health Insurance Card if applicable - read more…

• Travel VISA (if needed), you can check by clicking here.

• Credit or Debit card

• Other photo identification - Driving License/ID Card

Which route will the cycle challenge take, and how far is it?

The total cycling distance for the Lambrook to Paris cycle ride is 197 miles (route details)

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Where do the cycle challenges start and finish, and at what time?

The Lambrook to Paris cycle ride starts from London at 9.30am on day 1 and finishes in Paris (Eiffel Tower), at approximately 4.00pm on day 3.

Participants must meet at 9.00am at the school.

_______________

What level of fitness do I need to have for this challenge?

This is not an easy cycle ride, but don’t let that put you off. You will be in the saddle for three consecutive days, cycling between 55-75 miles for 6-8 hours each day. If you give yourself enough time to train and get used to your bike, it is a challenge that can be overcome by everyone. Get in touch with our Event Manager, Laura, who’d be happy to chat with you more about the challenge - info@tfaevents.co.uk or 0333 4441189.

_______________

What training do I need to do?

As you will be cycling for a long time for three consecutive days, getting comfortable with your bike, shoes, helmet, and clothing is essential. We all have busy lives, but try and get out on your bike at least 2-3 times a week, and if you can, practice riding in groups.

We will be setting up a cycling WhatsApp Group if you want to chat, meet, or even ride with others before your challenge. Do check out our training tips and remember your training should be fun! If you are a member of a local gym, sign up for a spinning class, as they are great ways to prepare. We encourage you to build up to the challenge, and our team is on hand to help you with any advice you may need.

_______________

I have a medical condition. What should I do?

We strongly recommend that anyone who has a medical condition should seek approval from their GP / Consultant before signing up for 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 our Terms & Conditions (below) for further details.

_______________

What will the challenge cost?

You will need to pay a non-refundable registration fee of £149.00 and pay an additional £1,500.00 to cover the cost of the trip

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How will each day of cycling work?

Each day’s cycling will be broken down into 4-5 shorter cycling sections, usually between 15-20miles long. After each section, there will be ‘Stop Points’ where you can take on snacks and drinks, rest your legs, and catch up with your fellow challengers. We have several support vehicles traveling with the group, so if you need to stop or want to ride in one of the support vehicles for part of a section, that’s absolutely fine.

_______________

Will food and accommodation be provided?

Whichever package you sign up for, charity place or self-funded place, all your meals and accommodation will be provided. We do not provide breakfast on Day 1.

Accommodation will be in hotels, which are more than comfortable, but if you wish to upgrade on Day 3, we can arrange for you, but there will be an additional charge, depending on the level of upgrade you want. All the additional bookings are subject to availability.

_______________

What type of bike do I need?

Above all, one that you feel comfortable riding for three consecutive days. We would recommend a road bike or hybrid, but if you have another type of bike and you are comfortable riding it for three consecutive days, that’s fine. Do feel free to talk to us in advance, especially if you plan to buy or want to rent a bike.

_______________

What happens if I experience problems with my bike?

Don’t worry, we have a bike mechanic with us on the support team, who will be able to provide any quick roadside repairs to get you going again. If the repairs cannot be completed at the roadside, we will get your bike to a bike shop as quickly as possible. We do have a reserve bike, which you can use at your own discretion. If not available or you choose not to, you will need to travel in one of the support vehicles. Any additional repairs needed for your bike will need to be covered by you.

_______________

How long is the ferry crossing for the European cycle challenges?

We cross the channel at Newhaven and sail to Dieppe. This is an overnight ferry, and we depart at 11.00pm and arrive at 5.00am local time.

_______________

What happens if I get injured?

We have carefully planned out this challenge to try and make sure that no one gets injured. Unfortunately, due to the nature of group cycling over 3 days on public roads, there may be injuries. To support you, we have a qualified medic in the group and support vehicles if you need to be taken for additional medical attention. It is, though, your responsibility to make sure you have adequate medical insurance, a European or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), and cycling insurance (see below) to do this challenge. Additional costs for medical support may be incurred, which will need to be covered entirely by yourself.

_______________

Do I need insurance?
YES! You must have your own insurance, and it will need to cover you for cycling activities, your personal possessions, and medical support if needed outside the UK.

If you are a UK resident and have travel insurance already, please ensure you contact your provider and inform them of your challenge to see if you require further policy or additional cover.

There are plenty of other companies that also provide this cover and support, and the above two organisations are only suggestions.

_______________

What other documents do I need?
You need to have the following documents to take part:

• A valid passport (European cycle challenges only), which is valid for at least six months after your return home date. If non-UK passport, it is your responsibility to get the relevant visa if needed. Unfortunately, we can’t help if you are refused entry at passport control.

• Cycling Insurance - You must bring a copy of your cycling insurance policy with you

• Health Insurance - You must bring a copy of your health insurance with you or a health insurance card

• Travel Insurance - Please ensure you have travel insurance for your personal items and your bike

_______________

How will I get back home?
You will need to arrange your own return from Paris, we will bring your bike back.

_______________

Can I extend my stay?

Yes absolutely. Just let us know when we speak to you after booking, and we can help you with your additional hotel booking, where we can. Additional charges may apply.

_______________

What will happen to my bike after the challenge?

We will bring your bike back to London after the end of the challenge. You will need to collect it from the agreed locations during the agreed time. If you wish to collect it at another time/date or have it delivered to another address, we can do that, but there may be additional charges.

_______________

If I cancel my place, what happens?
Please refer to our Terms & Conditions (below in the footer of this page) for full details.

Will food and accommodation be provided?

Whichever package you sign up for, charity place or self-funded place, all your meals and accommodation will be provided. We do not provide breakfast on Day 1. Accommodation will be in 2* hotels, which are more than comfortable, but if you wish to upgrade on Day 3, we can arrange for you, but there will be an additional charge, depending on the level of upgrade you want. All the additional bookings are subject to availability.

_______________

How long is the ferry crossing for the European cycle challenges?

We cross the channel at Newhaven and sail to Dieppe. This is an overnight ferry, and we depart at 11.00pm and arrive at 5.00am local time.

_______________

How will I get back home?
You will return from Paris via the Eurostar.

_______________

Can I extend my stay?

Yes absolutely. Just let us know when we speak to you after booking, and we will help you with your accommodation booking where we can. Additional charges may apply.

_______________

If I cancel my place, what happens?
Please refer to our Terms & Conditions (below in the footer of this page) for full details.

What level of fitness do I need to have for this challenge?

This is not an easy cycle ride, but don’t let that put you off. You will be in the saddle for three consecutive days, cycling between 55-75 miles for 6-8 hours each day. If you give yourself enough time to train and get used to your bike, it is a challenge that can be overcome by everyone. Get in touch with our Event Manager, Laura, who’d be happy to chat with you more about the challenge - info@tfaevents.co.uk or 0333 4441189.

_______________

What training do I need to do?

As you will be cycling for a long time for three consecutive days, getting comfortable with your bike, shoes, helmet, and clothing is essential. We all have busy lives, but try and get out on your bike at least 2-3 times a week, and if you can, practice riding in groups.

We will be setting up a cycling WhatsApp Group if you want to chat, meet, or even ride with others before your challenge. Do check out our training tips and remember your training should be fun! If you are a member of a local gym, sign up for a spinning class, as they are great ways to prepare. We encourage you to build up to the challenge, and our team is on hand to help you with any advice you may need.

_______________

I have a medical condition. What should I do?

We strongly recommend that anyone who has a medical condition should seek approval from their GP / Consultant before signing up for 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 our Terms & Conditions (below) for further details.

_______________

What type of bike do I need?

Above all, one that you feel comfortable riding for three consecutive days. We would recommend a road bike or hybrid, but if you have another type of bike and you are comfortable riding it for three consecutive days, that’s fine. Do feel free to talk to us in advance, especially if you plan to buy or want to rent a bike.

_______________

What happens if I experience problems with my bike?

Don’t worry, we have a bike mechanic with us on the support team, who will be able to provide any quick roadside repairs to get you going again. If the repairs cannot be completed at the roadside, we will get your bike to a bike shop as quickly as possible. We do have a reserve bike, which you can use at your own discretion. If not available or you choose not to, you will need to travel in one of the support vehicles. Any additional repairs needed for your bike will need to be covered by you.

_______________

What happens if I get injured?

We have carefully planned out this challenge to try and make sure that no one gets injured. Unfortunately, due to the nature of group cycling over 3 days on public roads, there may be injuries. To support you, we have a qualified medic in the group and support vehicles if you need to be taken for additional medical attention. It is, though, your responsibility to make sure you have adequate medical insurance, a European or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), and cycling insurance (see below) to do this challenge. Additional costs for medical support may be incurred, which will need to be covered entirely by yourself.

_______________

Do I need insurance?
YES! You must have your own insurance, and it will need to cover you for cycling activities, your personal possessions, and medical support if needed outside the UK.

If you are a UK resident and have travel insurance already, please ensure you contact your provider and inform them of your challenge to see if you require further policy or additional cover.

There are plenty of other companies that also provide this cover and support, and the above two organisations are only suggestions.

_______________

What other documents do I need?
You need to have the following documents to take part:

• A valid passport (European cycle challenges only), which is valid for at least six months after your return home date. If non-UK passport, it is your responsibility to get the relevant visa if needed. Unfortunately, we can’t help if you are refused entry at passport control.

• Cycling Insurance - You must bring a copy of your cycling insurance policy with you

• Health Insurance - You must bring a copy of your health insurance with you or a health insurance card

• Travel Insurance - Please ensure you have travel insurance for your personal items and your bike

_______________

What will happen to my bike after the challenge?

We will bring your bike back to London after the end of the challenge. You will need to collect it from the agreed locations during the agreed time. If you wish to collect it at another time/date or have it delivered to another address, we can do that, but there may be additional charges.

_______________

What forms do I need to complete?

You will need to complete the Registration form and Rider Info Form.