HMT 2026: If You Want Bloodstock, You Got It!
HMT 2026: If You Want Bloodstock, You Got It!

HEAVY METAL TRUANTS

01-09 Aug 26

HMT 2026: If You Want Bloodstock, You Got It!

After thirteen annual cycle rides from London to Download Festival, the Heavy Metal Truants are thrilled to announce that next year will see them charting a new path to glory -- destination: Bloodstock Open Air.

Co-founded in 2013 by then Metal Hammer Editor In Chief Alexander Milas and Iron Maiden manager Rod Smallwood, the Heavy Metal Truants have so far raised over £1.5 million for four children’s charities: Teenage Cancer Trust, Nordoff & Robbins Music Therapy, Childline, and Save the Children.

Since its beginning, this unique initiative has been spearheaded by a three day, 175-mile cycle from London to the gates of a major metal festival, and next year that destination is Bloodstock.

The 2026 ride will invite cyclists of all backgrounds and abilities to take up the gruelling challenge of cycling 175 miles with a single goal: raising vital funds for kids in need.

As in previous years, the Heavy Metal Truants will also include a series of virtual challenges so walkers, runners, and cyclists from all over the world can also support and take part.

JOIN THE RIDE BY CHOOSING A TICKET

** Please note- the Physical and Combined Challenges come with a £100 deposit to save your place. The remaining ride fees will be invoiced after registration.

Total Ride Fees of £600 include:
- Weekend VIP Ticket to Bloodstock
- Camping space at Bloodstock
- Accommodation on Wednesday 5th (Milton Keynes Hotel) and Thursday 6th Aug (Leicester Hilton Hotel) - based on twin share.
- Bike Hire
- Support Vehicles including medical and mechanical
- All food and water during challenge

Minimum fundraising of £1,200 applies to Combined and Physical Challenges.

Not included in Ride Fees:
- Beverages outside of challenge
- Alternative accommodation at or around Bloodstock
- Upgrades to accommodation during challenge

For more information, please visit the HMT website Ride page:

Event Instructions

Choose your option from the ticket/donate section, answer the questions and then checkout the basket!

VIRTUAL RIDE: Complete your chosen mileage amount by any mode of transport from the comfort of home or your local area from Saturday 1st August – Monday 9th August 2026.
COMBINED: A combination of both Virtual and Physical Ride!
PHYSICAL RIDE: Join us in person cycling from London to Bloodstock from Wednesday 5th August – Friday 7th August 2026. This ticket comes with a £100 deposit.

Supporting

The Truants Foundation
The Truants Foundation

Children | 1191441

100%

The Truants Foundation raises money for 4 Children's charities: Nordoff & Robbins, Teenage Cancer Trust, Childline and Save The Children - through various events.

Fundraisers 3

Supporters

9

Donated to this page

£ 900.00

1%

£1,640.00

£150,000 target | 3 fundraisers

Charities Supporting

The Truants Foundation