Setting off from Dover, the three-day journey will cover a total distance of 280km.
We'll follow some of the historic Western Front in Northern France and Belgium before finishing at the iconic Menin Gate in Ypres. We'll be joined by historian Dan Hill who will share historical information with us at each site we visit.
The full route plan will be released soon and GPX files will be provided to participants, if you have any questions about this please call us on 0333 011 4500.
Find out more about our jam-packed itinerary during your Pedal to Ypres ride.
Friday
If you have selected the London package, we will be in contact with further details.
Those who have added the Dover hotel package will be able to check into your hotel in Dover from 3pm on Friday. Dinner is included in this package.
All participants will be able to register on Friday evening at the hotel if they wish to do so more details will be given closer to the time.
Day 1: Approx. 120km
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4.00 - 4.15am - Registration is at 4.00-4.15am and we're leaving for ferry port at 4.20am.
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5.10am: We will all be leaving promptly to make our way to the ferry terminal. You will need to ride your bike to the terminal (3mins away) you can either do this in your cycling kit or other clothes and get changed on the ferry.
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6am: Ferry to Dunkirk, breakfast on the ferry
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9am (French time!): Arrival into Dunkirk
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We will first visit the moving memorial to the Wormhout Massacre.
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Next stop will be in the picturesque village of Cassel, to reach Cassel you will take on the climb of the day. This cobbled climb was made famous by the Tour of Normandy and the views at the end will be well worth it. We’ll have a quick stop at the summit and set the scene of some historical events that have happened in the area.
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In the afternoon we’ll be visiting Notre Dame de Lorette, the world’s largest French military cemetery and then we’ll focus on making some distance, passing through the beautiful French countryside to make your way into our final stop in Arras. Here, we’ll be touring the Wellington Tunnels, where you’ll descend 20 metres below the pavements to understand how the Allies liberated Arras through the complex tunnels dug under the city.
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At the end of the day, bikes will be stored in a secure lock up at the hotel.
Day 2: Approx. 100km
Breakfast at the hotel, and then we will be setting off in the morning.
Our first stop will be visiting the Neuville-Saint-Vaast German war cemetery. Then we’ll visit the trenches at Vimy Ridge followed by the scenic memorial. Following there we have an action-packed day where we will visit Loos Memorial, Neuve Chapelle, Ploegsteert Memorial to the Missing, the Australian Memorial in Fromelles, Mesen, the Caterpillar Crater, Hill 60, Tyne Cott and finally pass through the spectacular Menin Gate in Ypres.
After freshening up at your hotel we will attend the spectacular Menin Gate ceremony at 8pm to lay a wreath. This will be followed by dinner in the historic Cloth Hall a short walk away from the Menin Gate.
Day 3: Approx. 60km
On the final day it’s all about the cycling, 60km of beautiful Belgium and French countryside with the road as smooth as a pancake. We will be leaving in the morning to catch the afternoon ferry from Dunkirk which arrives back in Dover around late afternoon from there you can make your way back home with fond memories of your time spend at Pedal to Ypres.
*Distance are estimates at this stage as the route is subject to change, the final GPX routes will be released a few weeks before the event for you to load into your bike computer.
All groups will have lead vehicles, back vehicles and ride captain support to guide you along the route.
You'll need the right kit to help you complete the challenge.
A standard hybrid or road bike will be sufficient for the Pedal to Ypres challenge. No mountain or fixed wheel bikes are allowed on our long distance rides.
Your bike must be in roadworthy condition, so consider taking it to your local bike shop for a check-up prior to the ride. If you would like to talk to an expert, please contact Nigel Hill at Sidcup Cycles on 020 8300 8113 who will be happy to assist you.
Please note that anyone needing help from our mechanics at the start of an event to ensure road-worthiness will be charged for this service.
You'll also need some other kit, including:
- Helmets: These are mandatory for our ride.
- Cycle lock: This is optional as we provide secure lock-up storage at each overnight location.
- Water bottles: We recommend carrying two of these on your bike.
- Puncture repair kit: We have mechanics on the route, but we'd recommend that you bring one.
- Small rucksack or cycling panniers: These are great for carrying any personal items you may need during the day such as medications, cameras, puncture repair kit, etc.
- Clothing: Suitable clothing includes lycra cycling tops, padded shorts, footwear, sunglasses, cycling gloves and a waterproof jacket.
- First aid kit: We have medics who can support you on the ride, but we recommend bringing a basic first aid kit. This could include sun cream, insect spray, muscle rub, vaseline, lip balm, sanitary products and prescribed medication.
Travel documents and items you'll need could include:
- Currency: You will need some Euros. All meals and refreshments are included - but not bar bills!
- Baggage: Space is limited so we can only carry one bag per person. You will deliver your luggage to, and collect from, a central point each day, as it will be transported for you. Please make sure that your luggage is clearly marked with your name and does not weigh more than 15kg.
- Documents: This includes a valid passport, travel insurance for yourself and your bike, and your European Health Insurance Card.