London to Paris Bike Ride – Ali

Our Star Ratings

Here is an explanation of our cycling trip grades. Please bear in mind that total ascent, wind, rain and  general riding conditions can play as important factors as the daily distances involved. Whilst we  have stated some example distances, the overall difficulty assigned to each trip will encompass a range of these factors. If you are at all unsure of whether you think the trip is suitable, please contact us.

 

 

Easy: ​ Suitable for those new to cycling seeking an introductory and very relaxed yet active  experience on two wheels. Easy riding on short, flat and/or gently undulating routes. ​ Approx 20 – ­40  miles a day

 

 

Relaxed: ​ Undulating terrain with occasional minor undulations for semi­-regular novices who wish  to develop fitness and ability. May include a few short steep climbs. ​ Approx 40 – ­50 miles a day

 

 

Moderate: Designed for cyclists with a good level of riding experience and fitness, and are  comfortable riding for full days in the saddle. Routes will include some steep and/or sustained  climbs. Not for those completely new to cycling. ​ Approx 50 – 80 miles a day

 

Challenging: Routes with multiple steep and sustained climbs and technical descents and/or long  distances. Riders need to be have a high level of fitness and stamina in addition to experience in  riding over extended distances and/or tackling long ascents and descents. ​ Approx 70 – ­110 miles a  day

 

Advanced: Designed for experienced cyclists with an excellent level of fitness and stamina. Routes  are consistently long with multiple serious and steep ascents and descents throughout. High  altitude ascents may be undertaken followed by technically demanding descents. ​ Approx 80 – 120  miles a day

Itinerary

Day 1: Join tour in London, cycle to Calais (77 + 4 miles)

We meet early at Blackheath Common and after a short cycle through the outskirts of London, our route passes through Kent to the port at Dover. We will arrive at the ferry for a late afternoon crossing to Calais during which we’ll have dinner. Once in Calais it is a short cycle to our hotel for a well-earned rest.

 

Day 2: Calais to Arras (74 miles)

After a good nights’ rest we begin our second day cycling through the picturesque region of Pas-de-Calais. Numerous War Cemeteries echo the area’s troubled history but today much of the land is now used for agriculture. There are a few hills but nothing too strenuous.

Our overnight stop is in the historic town of Arras, which survived front-line action in both World Wars. Heavily damaged in the Second World War, much of it was rebuilt in the aftermath, and the cobblestone streets, fantastic squares and white stone buildings are, quite simply, delightful.

 

Day 3: Arras to Compiègne (76 miles)

We head directly south along small country lanes, most of them undulating with few serious climbs. We cross the Somme River today and cycle through an area rich in nature and wonderful food. Our destination for the evening is Compiègne which is located alongside the Oise River. Compiègne Forest is famous as the location of the signing of two wartime armistices and the spot where Joan of Arc was captured. It is also the start of the famous Paris-Roubaux cycle race!

 

Day 4: Compiègne to Paris (58 miles)

It’s a relatively short final day into Paris. There are a couple of short, steep climbs but by now you will be ready and prepared. Skirting around the Compiègne Forest, we head for the northeast corner of the city. As we enter the city the roads become considerably busier and great care must be taken. Heading into the centre of Paris, we pass the famous Arc de Triomphe, down the cobblestone Champs-Elysées before finishing under the Eiffel Tower for our all-important photos. Well done, you’ve made it! From here, we’ll make a short cycle to our hotel and prepare for our celebratory meal. Alternatively you can jump into a taxi to the hotel and we’ll transport your bicycle to the hotel.

Day 5: Paris to London (0 miles)

Today, you have the morning to explore this wonderful and diverse capital city. Highlights include a trip up the Eiffel Tower (not for the faint-hearted!), sampling some local cheese, visiting Le Louvre, a boat trip on the Seine, or simply a stroll (walking, not cycling!) around the atmospheric streets.  Getting back from Paris to the UK is not included in this trip so you are responsible for getting yourself back to London. Your Tour Leaders will be driving back to the UK with your bicycles. They will be dropped off at a suitable location (TBC) for you to pick them up once you’ve returned from Paris.

 

 

 

 

 

This trip will run on a minimum number of 12 persons. Please do not book any transport to/from the trip until it has been confirmed by email that it will run.

Map

Includes

• Cycle leader/guide(s)
• Support driver/bike mechanic
• Support vehicle throughout
• 4 x night’s hotel accommodation
• 4 x breakfasts
• 4 x buffet-style lunches
• Ferry crossing from Dover to Calais
• All luggage transported during your trip
• Bicycle transfer back to London from Paris

Not Included

• Bicycle and Helmet
• Transport to and from pick-up and drop-off points
• Evening meals, drinks and snacks
• Return transport from Paris to the UK
• Optional excursions in Paris

FAQs

Will we have time to explore Paris?

Yes. On the final day you will have the opportunity to explore Paris.

What time is the ferry to Calais on day 1?

We generally get the 17:25 ferry with the aim of arriving into Dover at least an hour before.

What time do we start riding?

This can be dependent on weather and group ability, however as a general rule we start cycling at 8am each morning.

What is the typical average speed?

Over the course of the full day it normally comes in at 12 - 15mph but this all depends on the average fitness of the group as a whole.

Where are bikes stored overnight?

In locked rooms or secure areas at your hotels. We do recommend you still bring a lock for your own peace of mind.

What breaks do we have throughout the day?

We tend to ride for around 20 miles, take a short break, then cycle to lunch at around just after halfway of the total mileage. After lunch we'll then cycle for another 15 or so miles, stop for a short break then continue on to the finish. There will potentially be other shorter breaks throughout the day (waiting at the top of hills etc), but we like to keep everyone moving as much as we can.

Do we need any navigation systems or apps?

No, you don't need these as this is a guided trip. If you do wish to record the ride and you're not a member already, we recommend the Strava app (www.strava.com). We also have a group on their which you and the other guys could join is you so wish - https://www.strava.com/clubs/moreadventure

Are there hairdryers in the hotels?

There are hairdryers in most of the hotels we use, yes.

Can I join up as a single person and pay extra to have my own room?

Yes. The single room supplement for the London to Paris ride is £190 and can be added upon booking.

Where does the trip start and end?

The start point is in front of the Clarendon Hotel on Blackheath and the trip ends at St Pancras station. There are a couple of options if you're leaving your car in Blackheath, we'll send out a helpful pdf with details once the trip has been confirmed.

Can we hire bicycles for the ride?

Whilst we don't rent bicycles, On Your Bike (https://www.onyourbike.com/rental.php) has a selection of bicycles of all standards and are based in London Bridge.

What sort of roads do we cycle on and is it busy?

Whilst we try to take less busy roads, there are some busier sections, particularly on Day 1. That said, the route is still on the whole really rather enjoyable and very beautiful as we pass through the more rural parts of Kent. Day 2 and 3 are on relatively quiet roads throughout. On Day 4 things get a little more busy again as we head into Paris, again we try and avoid the busy busy roads, but entering any city will be inevitably be busier whichever route you take.

If I am bit slower will I get left behind at all?

We like to cycle as a group but in smaller pods. This allows for cars to overtake but also allows for people to ride at their own pace. The speed is always dictated by the cycle leader and the group will regather and wait at the top of hills (or slightly past the top of a hill). The support vehicle will not be with the group at all time but in the event that someone feels the need to have a break or decides not to cycle any further, we will arrange a pickup in the support vehicle.

Is there a support vehicle behind? 

The support vehicle will not be with the group at all time but in the event that someone feels the need to have a break or decides not to cycle any further, we will arrange a pickup in the support vehicle.

Is it generally quite a safe route? 

We aim to cycle on back roads with less traffic but inevitably we do encounter traffic, particularly when leaving London and entering Paris.

Do most people wear clip on pedals. I don't have these at the moment.

It is not a prerequisite for you to ride with clipped in pedals but if you do choose to do so, please ensure that you have practiced riding with them in built up areas and have experience stopping and starting at traffic lights and roundabouts.

What type of bike is most suitable for this ride? I currently ride a hybrid bike, is this suitable?

Whilst we're sure you'd be fine riding a hybrid bike, we would always recommend a road bike for this trip. Firstly they tend to be far lighter (better on hills), and secondly the tyres tend to be more suitable (less rolling resistance) on a road bike. As this route is entirely on roads there is no need for the bulky/heavier tyres of a hybrid. That said, many complete the ride each year on a hybrid and if you're more comfortable and/or confident on a hybrid then this is also a consideration.

Can I book with a friend?

Yes no problem about booking with a friend, you can either book together as a 'group' and pay one deposit for both of you, or alternatively book separately and ensure you state on your booking form that you're friends and wish to share together. There is a 'Room Share Preference' on the booking form for this purpose.