Tommy Ride To Ypres

Who is it for?

Usually speeds of 10mph to 18mph.

Traditionally, this challenge attracts a mixed group of cyclists, from those starting out to everyday riders. On average, there will be riders cycling at around 10mph through to 17/18mph in appropriate speed groups.

Corporate Teams

The Tommy Ride offers corporate groups a special rate, giving teams the chance to take on a powerful cycling challenge together while building teamwork, strengthening social bonds, and supporting veterans.

Bike type

Road bikes, hybrid bikes or e-bikes would be ideal.

Participants will provide their own bikes and must wear helmets.

Event HQ

Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI)
Hall Road
Aylesford
Kent
ME20 7NL
UK

Luggage transfer

Your main luggage will be transported from hotel to hotel throughout the duration of the trip. You will be given a luggage tag for your main bag so that it arrives at the correct hotel. You will carry a small day bag for all those essentials, like a waterproof jacket, a jumper, extra snacks and your passport when riding.

Bike transfer

When you arrive back in Aylesford, your bike will be waiting at RBLI’s Capel Morris centre for you.

Accommodation

2/3 star hotels.

Accommodation on route is in 2/3 star hotels, picked for their proximity to the route. The accommodation will be primarily based on two people sharing.

Your family can join the celebratory meal and stay overnight in Belgium on Saturday night. There will be an additional charge for dinner and accommodation.

GPX route

The route is displayed on the map above.

Route

• Day 1 | Approx 80-90km

  You and your fellow riders will set off from RBLI’s Village and will quickly reach the quiet lanes and smooth roads of Kent, pausing on route at planned refreshment stops. There is very little climbing in the first section of the ride as the route snakes its way south east towards the Cliffs of Dover. Riders can then relax on board the ferry during the crossing whilst enjoying dinner. 2/3 star hotel is included.

• Day 2 | Approx 80-90km

  An early breakfast is served before you head north through France and into Belgium. Before the ride enters Ypres, you will have a chance to take a moment and reflect at The Commonwealth Cemetery at Tyne Cot. It is an incredibly poignant and sobering reminder of the cost of war.
  The ride finishes under the Menin Gate in Ypres, Belgium. The Tommy Ride group will all be together at the end of the ride, with the fundraising team that has been supporting them.
  A late dinner is planned in Ypres so that riders can attend the Last Post ceremony held at the Menin Gate at 8pm. After dinner, the evening is free for you to sample the delights of Belgium and grab a few drinks with newfound friends. 2/3 star hotel is included.

Navigation

You will have a ride captain in your group to ensure you reach the destinations.

You will get a briefing every day to let you know what to expect and to give you a rough idea of where you are heading that day. In addition, you will receive a map of the entire route to help you navigate your way.

Included

• 2 nights accommodation including dinner, bed and breakfast
• Ferry return with coach and transfers of your bike
• Plentiful pit stops to rest, refuel and recover
• Ride captains, mechanics, medics and support vehicle to keep you safe throughout the ride
• One-of-a-kind finishers medal
• 2 RBLI cycling jersey, unique for the year's ride
• The Last Post Ceremony under the Menin Gate in Ypres on Armed Forces Weekend
• Celebration dinner on Saturday night

Not Included

• Travel insurance
• Personal spending money
• Additional food and drinks
• Tips

Royal British Legion Industries

We are proud to support our Armed Forces, veterans and their families across the UK. We provide vital employment support, advice and homes to those who need them most and our efforts contribute towards assisting British Armed Forces veterans.

Who you're supporting

Tirtha is one of six former soldiers who served with the Brigade of Gurkhas who works in RBLI’s factory. Tirtha joined the British Army in 2005, and in his seven-year service undertook two tours of Afghanistan. On his second tour, in 2010, clearing improvised explosive devices he was caught in a blast and severely injured, losing his left leg above the knee.

In 2012 RBLI gave him what he calls his second chance. He has since established himself as leader of the signage team in the factory and has been able to move with his wife and two children to a new home outside the village in nearby Maidstone. ‘Being here,’ he says, ‘is like a family.’

Entry fees

I have lived a short distance from RBLI’s village for over 30 years, and have been fully aware of the amazing work that the RBLI provides to all veterans. I have never been involved in such a large event before, so I was excited to meet new people and take part in the 2025 Tommy ride to Ypres. From the minute I arrived at Ayelsford, I was overwhelmed by the excitement and encouragement that I was met with from the event organisers, support team and other cyclists. The organisation throughout the whole event was admirable. The medical support, bike mechanic, drivers, catering support and event organisers who off loaded and collected our baggage, and managed all of the customs processes was incredible. I have made some wonderful friends along the way and will be looking to take part again next year. Radders – Tommy Ride 2025 partipant

I used to take some of the veterans out on coach tours. This inspired me to give something back. It also allowed me to remember members of my family who served during the wars. Once I got to meet up with everyone on the day you could feel the emotions throughout the group. The organisation from the RBLI team was fantastic. I got to meet some amazing people and incredible cyclists. I left part of an amazing team, who supported each other every step of the way. The highlight for me was crossing the line and the Menin Gate. My emotions were high from finishing this incredible experience. I would highly recommend doing this to anyone. I have already expressed interest in joining the incredible cyclists again next year. Bruce – Tommy Ride 2025 participant