The Lee Valley Half Century 2026 is a 50km charity bike ride through the stunning landscapes of Epping Forest and the Lee Valley, starting at Chingford Plains in North-East London. Whether you are an experienced rider or a casual cyclist looking to push your limits, this challenging route is the perfect way to test yourself while supporting Haven House Children’s Hospice.
About the Event
The ride takes place on Sunday 4 October 2026, with riders setting off from Chingford Plains at 08:30. The event is organised by Haven House Children’s Hospice and covers 50km of forest trails, canal towpaths and paved cycle paths through two of London’s most scenic green spaces. A detailed route map is shared with all participants upon booking.
The Route
Epping Forest section: The ride starts at Chingford Plain and heads into the forest through scenic woodland trails, up to Jack’s Hill and back down to High Beech, before exiting the forest at Whitehouse Plain.
Lee Valley section: Riders then circle Gunpowder Park and head south along the reservoirs, following the mostly flat and scenic River Lee towpath with views of the Walthamstow Wetlands, Hackney Marshes and Wanstead Flats.
Key information: Distance: 50km · Difficulty: Challenging · Surface: Forest trails, canal towpaths and paved cycle paths.
Why Ride with Us?
- Take on a real challenge with fellow cyclists
- Enjoy stunning scenery from forest to waterways
- Follow a fully signed route with refreshment stops
- Help provide specialist care for seriously ill children
- Receive a bespoke finisher’s medal
Supporting Haven House Children’s Hospice
Haven House Children’s Hospice needs your support more than ever. The charity provides specialist care whenever and wherever families need it, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Your fundraising will help fund its Music Therapy service, specialist nurses who support families at home, respite care in the hospice and specialist bereavement support for families who have lost a child.
Getting There
The ride starts at Chingford Plains, 10 Ranger’s Road, London E4 7QJ. The venue is a 15-minute walk from Chingford railway station (London Overground) and there is car parking at Chingford Plain car park. Find out more about the venue and how to get there on our Chingford Plains location page.
Tickets & Registration
Registration costs £55 per rider. Book your place via the official registration form at havenhouse.org.uk, and check the event FAQs if you have any questions. For anything else, contact the events team at events@havenhouse.org.uk.
Looking for more ways to get active in the capital? Browse all upcoming events in London or see what else is happening around London.
