Cycling from London to Paris Self Supported
If you’ve ever dreamed of pedalling from one iconic European capital to another, a London to Paris self supported ride should be right at the top of your list. This route isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the freedom, challenge, and sense of accomplishment that comes from doing it all on your own terms.
At More Adventure, we’ve helped countless cyclists take on this legendary ride, but going self supported adds a whole new layer of adventure. There’s no support van, no baggage transfers, and no scheduled feed stops — just you, your bike, and the open road.
Why Go London to Paris Self Supported?
- Freedom to Choose Your Route
Want to take the ferry to Dieppe and enjoy the Avenue Verte? Or maybe cross from Newhaven for a more coastal route? When you’re self supported, the choice is yours. - A True Test of Resilience
Without external support, you’ll need to carry your own kit, fix your own mechanicals, and find your own food and water. It’s a pure cycling challenge that builds confidence and self-reliance. - Unforgettable Memories
Every decision, from where you sleep to where you eat, becomes part of the story. You’ll remember the unexpected cafés, the conversations with locals, and that perfect sunrise on the road.
Check out our Self Supported Rides in our online shop.
Planning Your London to Paris Self Supported Ride
1. Choose Your Start & Finish Points
Many start at Greenwich, Blackheath Common or Trafalgar Square and finish at the Eiffel Tower. Having a symbolic start and finish makes the achievement even sweeter.
2. Decide Your Crossing
Two popular crossings:
- Newhaven to Dieppe – Links directly to the Avenue Verte cycle route into Paris.
- Dover to Calais – Offers faster travel but is a longer route.
3. Pack Smart, Pack Light
Self supported means everything goes on your bike: clothing, spares, tools, snacks, and navigation devices. A lightweight bikepacking setup works best.
4. Train for Consecutive Days
It’s not just about fitness for one big day – you’ll need endurance for multiple days in a row, often with loaded panniers or bikepacking bags.
A Sample London to Paris Self Supported Itinerary
- Day 1: London to Newhaven – 100km
- Day 2: Dieppe to Gournay-en-Bray – 80km (after the ferry)
- Day 3: Gournay-en-Bray to Paris – 90km
Of course, that’s just one example. Some riders smash it in 24 hours, while others take four or five days to soak in the scenery.
Check out our Self Supported Rides in our online shop.
Top Tips for Success
- Navigation: Download routes offline on a GPS device or smartphone app.
- Food & Drink: Always carry a few emergency snacks – French towns can be quiet outside mealtimes.
- Accommodation: Book ahead during summer or go full adventure mode and camp.
- Mindset: Expect the unexpected. Delays, detours, and weather changes are all part of the adventure.
Why It’s Worth Every Pedal Stroke
A London to Paris self supported ride is more than just a cycling trip — it’s an exercise in independence, endurance, and exploration. You’ll arrive at the Eiffel Tower not just as a cyclist but as someone who has navigated their way across countries under their own power.
At More Adventure, we believe challenges like this change you for the better. So pack your bags, check your tyres, and start planning your London to Paris self supported ride — your next great story is waiting to be written on the road.
Check out our Self Supported Rides in our online shop.
If you want help planning your route or want to join one of our organised trips, check out our upcoming cycling adventures at www.moreadventure.co.uk.
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