Sporting events were cancelled left, right and centre in 2020, so if you need something to put a spring in your step, we’re looking forward to the walking events scheduled for the year ahead. With varying distances, locations and charities to support, there’s something for everyone!
Jurassic Coast Challenge
Explore one of Britain‘s prized UNESCO World Heritage Sites on foot. You’ll walk along the spectacular Jurassic Coast through Lulworth Cove, past nature reserves and onto the western end of the unique Chesil Beach to West Bay’s famous cliffs (Broadchurch fans will recognise this landmark), before a welcome finish line celebration in the vibrant town of Bridport. With individual and team options, the chance to choose your distance and pace, camping options and rest stops with free food and drink, as well as a free glass of bubbly at the end, this is not an event to be missed!
Event details
Dates: Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th May 2021
Where? Poole Harbour, Dorset
Registration fee: Prices start from £5
Distance: 25km, 50km or 100km
Visit jurassiccoastchallenge.com for more information.
Take Steps
Encouraging people to get active and raise money for the vital work the British Lung Foundation does, Take Steps is flexible and accessible and it doesn’t matter what your level of fitness is. The great thing about this challenge is that you can walk any distance, where you want, when you want. You can even take on laps of the garden or flights of stairs if you‘re not leaving the house – it all counts! People can take on the challenge by themselves or with a virtual team to raise awareness for all lung conditions, which is especially important with the COVID-19 outbreak.
Event details
Date: The month of June 2021
Where? Anywhere!
Registration fee: Free
Distance: You decide!
Visit blf.org.uk for more information.
Snowdown Climb
If you’re comfortable with mountain walking and are a firm animal lover, this charity route is for you. Led by an experienced guide from Snowdonia Peaks and Valleys, you’ll take on the challenge of conquering Snowdon to raise vital funds for Cats Protection. The route will take between three to four hours to ascend and roughly three hours to descend. The route is very challenging and includes some low level scrambling on the ascent, and at times, you’ll need to use your hands. There are extremely steep areas and it’s very exposed at the top, but it has an easier path to descend.
Event details
Date: Friday 21st May 2021
Where? Snowdonia National Park, Caernarfon
Registration fee: No, but there’s a £150 minimum pledge
Visit cats.org.uk for more information.
Trekfest
Make every step count with the TrekFest challenge. With 25km and 50km routes to choose from, whether you walk, jog, or even run you’ll be challenging yourself in one of the UK’s most beautiful national parks – the Brecon Beacons, South Wales. Full of incredible scenery, rolling countryside and impressive mountains, the Brecon Beacons National Park is also an SAS training ground, so expect stunning, yet challenging terrain. Sign up solo or as a team with friends, family or colleagues – the team spirit will be flying high, so join in for the ultimate trek challenge!
Event details
Date: 18th September 2021
Where? Brecon Showground, Powys
Registration fee: Early bird registration fees start at £45
Visit trekfest.org.uk for more information.
Kiltwalk
This charity walk takes place in Scotland‘s four biggest cities – Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee. Anyone can take part in the Kiltwalk for a charity of their choice, and they can choose from three distances: the five-mile Wee Wander, the 15-mile Mighty Stride or the marathon-long 26-mile Mighty Stride. The unique thing about the Kiltwalk is that 150 percent of funds raised by walkers go to their chosen charity, as The Hunter Foundation tops up every amount raised by 50 percent, meaning for every £1 raised, £1.50 goes to charity. It’s the most cost-effective way to raise vital funds for those in need. Don’t forget your tartan!
Event details
Date: Starting from April 2021
Where? Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee
Registration fee: TBC
Visit thekiltwalk.co.uk for more information.
Thames Path Challenge
England’s greatest river provides a fantastic backdrop for this unforgettable challenge! Over 3,000 walkers will join the Putney Bridge start, and the full 100km route heads upstream all the way to Henley, along the famous Thames Towpath. It’s through Richmond, Hampton Court, Runnymede, and Windsor, with some wonderful historic scenery en route to a riverside finish line. You’ll get full support and hospitality all the way – and with half, quarter, and 10km distance options also available – there’s a Thames Path Challenge for everyone.
Event details
Date: 11th-12th September 2021
Where? Thames Path, London
Registration fee: Prices start at £5 and you must have at least £245 charity sponsorship
Visit ultrachallenge.com for more information.
