WELCOME TO THE PALACE TO PALACE TEAM
Thank you so much for signing up and being part of #TeamKingsTrust by taking on our flagship active event, Palace to Palace.
Welcome to your digital ride guide. Please do read through all the information here to get a good understanding of what to expect on the day, key timings, safety info and equipment.
BE PREPARED
The essential items
What do I need to bring?
Remember to bring these essential items with you on the day:
- Roadworthy bike (remember you can claim a free bike health check at any Evans store before the event, see details in your dashboard)
- Cycle helmet - this is compulsory and must be worn at all times
- Rider number (attached to the back of your shirt) and bike number (fitted to your handlebars). Your timing chip is in your bike number.
- Official Palace to Palace t-shirt or golden cycling jersey
- Full water bottle or Camelback
Packs containing your rider number, bike number and Palace to Palace top will be posted to the address you registered with. If you do not receive your pack by Friday 25 September, please email palace@kingstrust.org.uk.
We also recommend bringing the following:
- Snacks such as flapjack, energy bars/gels
- Money – cash and card
- Charged mobile phone
- Spare inner tube, small bike pump, and basic puncture repair kit
- Padded cycling shorts
- Cycling mitts/gloves
- Lightweight waterproof jacket and sunscreen (just in case)
- Tyre levers
- Cycle bell
- Small first aid kit
- Bike lock
- Any medication you need
What should I prep before event day?
- Please write your emergency contact details on the reverse of your rider number before event day. It is mandatory to complete these details and could cause delays if not completed before you arrive.
- Make sure you attach your rider number to the back of your top (using the safety pins provided in your pack)
- Attach your bike number to your handlebars with the cable ties provided, ensuring the timing chip is forward facing.
- Make sure your water bottle is full - there is nowhere to fill it at the start. You will be able to refill this at the first waterstop (approx. 10 miles in).
- Download the free app what3words to use if you need help on event day. This will enable our safety team to locate you on the route, and is also used by the emergency services in the UK.
With all that sorted ahead of time, you’re all set for a smooth start – now here are your top tips for the morning of:
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There’s no registration process on the day, so head straight to the start on The Mall and you will be called forward for your chosen start wave.
- Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your allocated start time.
- Please allow an additional 30 - 45 minutes if you are collecting a bike from Bike Hire UK, as queues are likely.
- If you need to collect a replacement rider number and bike number on the day, please go to the information point.
- Emergency numbers for the day will be printed on your rider number.
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Toilets are available in St James’s Park and our marshals will be able to direct you.
GETTING TO PALACE TO PALACE
The start line for Palace to Palace is on The Mall near Admiralty Arch on Trafalgar Square. What3Words ///flag.pace.guess
Getting there by Train: The closest overground stations to the start are Charing Cross, Waterloo and Victoria - all are a few minutes cycle from the start.
Getting there by the London Underground: There are restrictions with taking bikes on the London Underground. Use this Bicycles on the London Underground map for details on which tube lines bicycles are permitted. The nearest Underground stations that you can take your bike to are Westminster (Circle and District), St James Park (Circle and District), and Embankment (Circle and District). All are a short cycle from the start.
Getting there by Car: There is no parking provided at the start, but there are several car parks nearby. Please note that if you are being dropped off at the start you will not be able to access Horse Guard Road, The Mall or Marlborough Rd. Instead, we recommend using Waterloo Palace, Carlton House Terrace. It is then a short 2 minute cycle to the start. We do encourage the use of public transport over driving where possible.
Finish Festival: This year, the event finishes at Battersea Park. What3words for the finish festival site are ///scope.camps.sweat
Have you got friends & family coming along to support you at the Finish Festival? As a thank you for taking part, one of our event partners, Santander UK are offering your friends and family a free Santander Cycles Day Pass for use on Sunday 4 October between 00.01-23.59.
Discount code: PALACEFRIENDS2026
Just download the Santander Cycles app or head to any docking station to start your ride and show your support! Please note, key T&Cs below:
- A Santander Cycles Day Pass provides unlimited 60 minute hires for 24 hours from the first bike hire.
- Code can be redeemed from either the Santander Cycles App, or at any docking station.
- E-bikes can only be hired via the mobile app and incur an additional £1 per journey, plus £3 for each extra 60 minutes.
- Extra ride charges apply should any journey last longer than 60 minutes. Find out more: What you pay - Transport for London.
- Code can be used once and cannot be redeemed by customers with an existing Santander Cycles subscription or pending access period.
Event day information
Route Signage
The Palace to Palace route is fully signed and marshalled. You’ll be briefed on the start line and shown a sign so you know what to follow.
Palace to Palace is not a race, however all cyclists will have a timing chip in their bike number and everyone will be given a finish time. This allows us to track your progress and ensure everyone is accounted for and safe. Your timing chip is within your bike number, please arrive at the start with this attached to your handlebars using the cable ties provided and with the number facing forward.
Event timings
6:45am First Ultra cyclists set off from The Mall
If you are an ultra cyclist, you must start in either the 6.45am, 7am or 7:15am wave. If you arrive later than this, you will be moved onto the classic route.
7:30am First Classic cyclists set off from The Mall
8:30am Festival Finish begins
9:00am First cyclists complete the route and cross the finish line at Battersea Park
9:30am Last cyclists set off from The Mall
No cyclists will be permitted to start after 09:30 due to restrictions on how long we can use The Mall. If you arrive late you will not be able to participate.
10:45am Ultra riders must have left Waterstop 2 (approx.32 miles)
1.30pm Ultra riders must have left Waterstop 4 (approx.58 miles)
2.15pm Classic riders must have left Waterstop 4 (approx.29 miles)
3.45pm Ultra riders must have left Waterstop 4 (approx. 81 miles)
4.15pm Classic riders must have left Waterstop 5 (42 miles)
5pm Ultra riders must have left Waterstop 5 (approx. 95 miles)
5.45pm All riders to have finished
6pm Battersea Park Festival Finish closes
Ride Support
An emergency number will be on your rider number for you to call on the day if you experience any difficulty.
Our Santander Bike mechanics will be at the start and at the water stops along the course to make basic repairs, but do remember to bring a spare inner tube and a puncture repair kit. If your bike does break down, the Santander Bike mechanic team will pick you up and take you to the nearest stop (there may be a charge for spares). This can take a while, so please be patient. Try to repair punctures yourself or ask a fellow cyclist as this will be quicker. If you require help please identify yourself to the nearest marshal or call the emergency route number on your rider number.
In the event of a medical emergency, please call 999 first and then notify us once the emergency services are on their way. Please stay with any casualties until the emergency services arrive.
THE ROUTE
Here are the route maps for the Classic 50-mile route and the Ultra 100-mile route.
You can also take a look at these in more detail and download them to your garmin or similar - please find them linked below.
The route will be fully signed on the day. Please note that the routes are subject to last minute change.
BE SAFE
Look after yourself
- You must wear your official rider number on the day and it must be visible at all times.
- Always wear a cycle helmet that fits and is securely fastened.
- Wear conspicuous clothing that is appropriate for cycling, i.e. nothing which may get caught on your chain or wheels.
- BE SEEN - most accidents happen at junctions; wear high visibility belts, fit lights and use them in poor visibility.
- The ride will be on open roads so please ensure you are comfortable riding alongside other road users.
- All riders must be aged 16+ on the date of the ride and anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Any rider with a medical condition, or who is unsure of their physical ability to take part are advised to seek medical advice from a general practitioner prior to the event
- Keep your bike roadworthy; check your brakes work, your chain is oiled, and your tyres are in good condition and pumped up
- Whatever the weather conditions, your body needs fluids whilst cycling. Loss of fluid, especially from sweating will reduce your blood volume and mean that your heart will have to work harder. Therefore, replacing this fluid loss is essential to you completing the course. Stay hydrated by arriving with a full bottle/Camelback and topping up at the water stops on route
- Cycling will increase your energy needs, so aim to eat little and often. Bring snacks with you so you have something to keep your energy levels up along the route
- Alcohol and cycling are not a good mix and we strongly recommend you do not indulge along the route
- Please don’t use headphones, you need to be able to listen to what is going on around you
- You must adhere to The Highway Code at all times (gov.uk/highway-code)
Look after others
Remember it’s not a race. Be a good advert for cycling and show consideration to others, whether cyclists, pedestrians, horse riders or motorist and acknowledge those who give way to you. Look after other road users by:
- Ride in single file on narrow or busy roads. Never ride more than two abreast on open roads
- Don’t cycle on pavements except where designated. Pavements are for pedestrians
- You must obey all traffic light signals and road signs; keep to your side of any dividing line on roads or cycle paths
- Do not attempt any dangerous passing of other cyclists
- Only overtake if it is safe to do so and use your bell to let people know you are coming
- Be careful at junctions, bends and entrances
- Keep your distance from other cyclists at all times, as some may be inexperienced. Be prepared to slow down or stop if necessary
- Take care at all times. Don’t expect to cycle at high speeds. Please signal any intention to turn left or right and don’t stop suddenly, there may be cars or other cyclists directly behind you
- Keep both hands on the handlebars (unless signalling) and both feet on the pedals
- Never hold on to a moving vehicle or trailer
- Please do not ask friends or family to drive along the course
The course has been carefully chosen by Massive, our event delivery partner, to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience. However, you are advised to adhere to our road safety guidelines and obtain personal accident insurance. You also need adequate cover for your bike and personal property to cover you for loss or damage, and loss or injury you may cause to a third party. By signing up to Palace to Palace you have agreed to our terms and conditions, which were available to view when you signed up. If you would like to see our terms and conditions, please email palace@kingstrust.org.uk
ABOUT THE FESTIVAL FINISH
Well done - you’ve done it!
Hear the cheers, feel the buzz, and soak up the moment as you cross the finish line in Battersea Park and receive your well-deserved medal – you’ve earned every second of this triumph!
As you arrive, please drop your bike at our secure bike park before entering the festival site. Be sure to keep your rider number on – it’s your key to collecting your bike later, as it will be matched to your bike number on exit.
If you are taking part in a large team and have access to our partner village or own company marquee, please head to the large marquees to the far end of the festival site - your team celebration awaits!
New finish location - Battersea Park
Celebrate in style at our vibrant festival finish, and don’t forget – the more the merrier! Invite your friends and family to join you as you revel in your incredible achievement together.
Parking: There is no designated event parking. There are three car parks located close to Battersea that guests may find convenient:
- Battersea Park – Chelsea Gate car park
- Battersea Park – Rosery Gate car park
- Chelsea Bridge Wharf car park (main website can be found here)
Please note that all parking in these locations is open to the public and operates on a first come, first served basis. The car parks within Battersea Park are fairly small and no spaces have been reserved specifically for event participants.
In addition, there may be limited on-street parking available on the surrounding residential roads near Battersea. Participants are responsible for arranging and covering the cost of any parking charges.
Underground: Battersea Power Station is the closest tube station to the finish and is around a 20min walk from the Finish Festival site. Sloane Square Station is a 30min walk.
Overground: The closest overground stations to the finish are Battersea Park Station (15min walk), Queenstown Road (20min walk) and Clapham Junction (30min walk). These are all a few minutes cycle from the finish.
Major overground train stations Victoria and Clapham Junction are short bus rides away
Time to soak it all up!
This is your finish line to celebrate your incredible achievement - so, kick back, relax, and enjoy every second of the festival vibes! You can refuel with tasty food and drinks from street vendors, dance along to live music, let the kids run wild with family-friendly entertainment, and if your legs are feeling sore - treat yourself to a blissful massage from our Supporting Partners, Elemis.
You’ve done something amazing and helped transform young lives – now go celebrate like the legend you are!
HAVE ANY QUESTIONS
Thank you for signing up for Palace to Palace 2026 to take on an awesome challenge and help end youth unemployment and transform young lives.
We cannot wait to see you on the start line on The Mall on Sunday 4 October for an incredible day!
Have a look through some of the fantastic moments from our 2025 event, taken by our amazing photographers, Matt Grayson and Paul Upward and get excited for the big day.
MEET OUR EVENT PARTNERS
Thank you to our Headline Partner, Sky for supporting this year's event.
Sky and The King's Trust are now in their second year of partnership, working together to help young people build the skills, confidence and opportunities they need to fulfil their potential. Together, we're aiming to support more than 3,000 young people into life changing careers. As part of this commitment, Sky is proud to be returning as headline sponsor of Palace to Palace for a second year. For 2026, they have more than 400 Sky colleagues and customers taking part, helping raise vital funds for young people across the UK.
Alongside Palace to Palace, Sky support initiatives such as Million Makers and Change a Girl's Life, helping more young people overcome barriers to employment, education and opportunity. Through programmes including Get Started with News and Sport, more than 500 young people have gained industry insight, skills, mentoring and work experience opportunities. Sky are proud of these shared achievements so far, and are excited for the impact they can continue to make with The King's Trust in the years ahead.
Santander
Santander is proud to partner with The King’s Trust to help young people build skills, grow in confidence, and unlock their potential. With shared values and a commitment to social mobility, this collaboration extends our outreach and impact.
As official bike mechanic sponsor for Palace to Palace, they're celebrating a long-standing partnership with Transport for London through Santander Cycles – London’s public bike hire scheme. This initiative not only supports fundraising for The King’s Trust but also promotes cycling, sustainability, and colleague wellbeing.
Download the Santander Cycles app from the app store or google play, or visit: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/cycling/santander-cycles
Watches of Switzerland Group
The Watches of Switzerland Group are proud to support The King's Trust, helping young people build brighter futures. Through Watches of Switzerland Group Foundation, they have partnered with The Trust for 13 years, positively impacting more than 11,000 lives.
Taking part in Palace to Palace for the fifth year running, colleagues from across The Group are coming together to fundraise and make a difference.
Supporting those in need in our communities is one of The Group’s core values, and this event allows them to continue to support young people across the UK.
ELEMIS
As long-standing Patrons of The King's Trust, ELEMIS is proud to help strengthen pathways into the beauty and wellness industry through work placements, mentoring, skills-based workshops, volunteering and fundraising.
This year, members of the ELEMIS team will once again take on Palace to Palace, raising funds to help The King's Trust continue its life-changing work with young people across the UK.
After crossing the finish line, riders and walkers can enjoy an ELEMIS massage* – the perfect way to relax, recover and celebrate an incredible achievement. *subject to availability

