George Kohler, 57, and his 23-year-old son Joshua, from near Acle, began riding together as a way to spend time and have adventures.
George Kohler and his son Josh Kohler and a Guinness World Records official presenting their certificates as they return home to Halvergate, Norfolk, after spending 12 months cycling around the world for Unicef (Image: Joel Chant/ PA)
Their record-breaking journey has since become a testament to determination and family bonds.
Their round-the-world trip saw them cover more than 30,000km (18,641 miles) across 31 countries and four continents in 400 days.
The ride took them through deserts and jungles, over mountain passes, and into temperatures ranging from 47C to minus 3C.
Joshua Kohler, a content creator and filmmaker, said: “I’ve just cycled around the world with my dad, and now we hold three world records.”
On Saturday, the pair finished back in Halvergate, where hundreds of people lined the road waving Union flags and cheering them home.
After emotional hugs from family and friends, they were presented with Guinness World Records certificates naming them as the fastest father and son to circumnavigate the world by bicycle.
They were also recognised for cycling the farthest distance and through the most countries as a father-son team.
George Kohler and his son Josh Kohler with the Guinness World record certificates (Image: Joel Chant/PA)
George Kohler, who served for 27 years in the British military before starting a chimney sweeping business, was handed two of the certificates.
Mr Kohler said: “I haven’t got enough arms.”
During their 400-day journey, the duo climbed 180,000 metres – the equivalent of 20 ascents of Mount Everest – and burned an average of 4,000 calories each day.
They set off in March last year, crossing Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America before returning home.
Partway through the trip, George reflected on the kindness they had experienced.
He said: “It’s really restored our faith in humanity.”
The father and son began cycling together in 2021 (Image: Joel Chant/PA)
They began cycling together in 2021, completing their first major ride from Land’s End to John O’ Groats later that year.
The following year, they rode 3,728 miles across the United States in just three months.
This most recent challenge was in support of Unicef, and so far they have raised more than £50,000 for the charity.
Supporters can donate via the website.