Join #TeamBrainResearchUK and take on one of the most iconic cycling experiences in Europe to help fund life-changing neurological research.
This incredible challenge sees you pass through picturesque Kent countryside, cross the Channel and continue through the small villages and medieval market towns of Northern France. Passing through picturesque Kent countryside, we cross the Channel and continue through the small villages and medieval market towns of Northern France. With long days in the saddle and some rewarding hill-climbs, the journey builds to an unforgettable finale: the Eiffel Tower.
An early start allows you to avoid the morning traffic as you pass through the outskirts of London onto quieter roads. It is not long before you’ll be among the rolling fields and villages of rural Kent, passing orchards and traditional oast houses where hops are stored. You’ll follow country roads across the hills of the North Downs to Dover and the cost. Taking the ferry to Calais, you’ll have dinner on board and cycle the short distance (approximately 5 miles) to your hotel. Dinner not included. — Distance: cycle approximately 85 miles (136km)
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll head south through beautiful rural landscapes. You’ll ride through ancient Desvres, pedalling quiet winding roads running parallel to the coast. After lunch, you’ll reach the valleys of the Canche River and head further south towards Crécy-en-Ponthieu, the site of the 14th century Battle of Crécy. Continuing south, your final leg brings you to Abbeville, on the River Somme. Abbeville suffered badly from WW2 air raids, but its beautiful Flemish-style architecture is still in evidence, and its Gothic church has been largely restored to its former glory. — Distance: cycle approximately 71 miles (114km)
Leaving Abbeville behind, you’ll follow the River Somme east out of the town in the direction of Amiens. These lands are renowned for the terrible battles of the First World War and are scattered with cemeteries and other poignant reminders of that period of history. Your route soon turns south, and you’ll follow shady beech-tree-lined avenues so typically French, into meandering valleys and traditional farming hamlets. The cycling is mostly flat and through agricultural lands. Your day will end at Beauvais, a town renowned for its large gothic cathedral. — Distance: cycle approximately 65 miles (104km)
Your final day’s cycling will take you over the river Théram and south of Beauvais towards the great capital city. Following small country roads, you’ll head towards the small town of Meru and continue south through beautiful countryside. As we reach the suburbs of Paris we look out for the distinctive landmarks of the Eiffel Tower and the Sacre Coeur standing out on the skyline. Reaching the suburb of St. Denis you’ll come to the River Seine; following its northern esplanade in the shadow of the Bois du Boulogne, we ride until we reach the Pont d’lena and finish beneath the lofty arches of the Eiffel Tower. You’ll check into our hotel and enjoy a great celebration to mark your achievement. — Distance: cycle approximately 50 miles (80km)
After breakfast, you are free to explore the famous sights of Paris. You’ll then be responsible for getting yourself and your bags to the Gare du Nord in time for your evening Eurostar train back to St Pancras International, where you will be reunited with your bike! Lunch and dinner not included.
Our July dates coincide with the finale of the Tour de France in Paris. For those interested, it's a great little bonus to spend your last day in Paris seeing how the pros do it.
10th – 14th June 2026
22nd – 26th July 2026
9th – 13th September 2026
9th – 13th June 2027
21st – 25th July 2027
8th – 12th September 2027
Registration Fee: £149
Fundraising Target: £2,000
Raise at least 80% of your fundraising target 10 weeks before departure, with the final 20% within 2 weeks of your adventure finishing.
Registration Fee: £149
Payment Amount: £250
Fundraising Target: £1,500
Pay a contribution to your trip costs to lower your fundraising target. Raise at least 80% of your fundraising target 10 weeks before your challenge begins, with the final 20% within 2 weeks of your adventure finishing.
Registration Fee: £149
Payment Amount: £1,000
Pay the full amount of your trip costs, so all the funds that you raise go to Brain Research UK, to help those affected by neurological conditions live better, longer. Payment will be due 8 weeks before your challenge begins.
For any questions or queries, please email events@brainresearchuk.org.uk or call us on 020 7404 9982.
