Cancer Research UK Big Hike 2026 | Your Complete Guide
If you love walking or hiking and taking in spectacular scenery, and want to help support life-saving research, the Big Hike experience is for you! Seven iconic UK landscapes, three distances, one powerful cause. Here's everything you need to know.
Every step you take at a Cancer Research UK Big Hike event is a step closer to beating cancer. Since the 1970s, average cancer survival rates have doubled, and it's fundraising events like Big Hike that help make breakthroughs like this possible.
Whether you're signing up in memory of someone, or because you love the outdoors and want your miles to mean something more, this is the event for you.
Big Hike experience
What is the Cancer Research UK Big Hike?
The Big Hike is Cancer Research UK's flagship walking event series, taking place across seven of the UK's most spectacular locations throughout summer 2026. Participants choose from a 10k, half marathon (approximately 21km) or full marathon (approximately 42km) distance, all on fully signposted, marshalled routes through breathtaking countryside.
It's not a race; there are no chip times, no podiums, and no pressure. It's a chance to escape the everyday, breathe in some of Britain's finest air, and walk with purpose, knowing that every pound you've raise goes towards life-saving cancer research.
The 2026 Big Hike locations
Seven stunning venues are on the calendar for 2026, spread from Scotland to the south coast of England:
Big Hike Trossachs, Saturday 16 May 2026 | Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, through Callander and past lochs and waterfalls.
Big Hike Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog), Saturday 6 June 2026 | Along the peaceful canal towpath, across the River Usk, and into the majestic mountains.
Big Hike Peak District, Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 June 2026 | Through magnificent woodlands, past pretty waterfalls and limestone cliffs, with beautiful views across the Peak District.
Big Hike Jurassic Coast, Saturday 20 June 2026 | England's only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for the outstanding beauty of its cliffs, fossils and landforms.
Big Hike Lake District, Saturday 27 June 2026 | The idyllic beauty of Lake Grasmere and Rydal Water, made famous by Wordsworth, with magnificent mountain backdrops.
Big Hike Cotswolds, Saturday 11 July 2026 | Rolling hills and picturesque villages, past Broadway Tower with stunning views from Dover's Hill.
Big Hike Suffolk and Essex, Saturday 18 July 2026 | The pastoral charm of ancient woodland, historic cottages and the winding River Stour through Dedham Vale.
How far is the Big Hike? Choosing your distance
One of the things that makes Big Hike so welcoming is the choice of distances. There's genuinely something for everyone.
10k is the ideal entry point if you're newer to events or charity hikes. It's achievable, enjoyable but still hugely impactful. Age 12+
Half marathon (~21km) is a satisfying middle ground and a proper challenge without requiring months of serious training. Most reasonably active walkers can take this on with a bit of preparation. Age 14+
Marathon (~42km) is for those who want to push themselves further. It's a genuine achievement, but with the right training, it's within reach of most determined walkers. Age 16+.
You don't need to be a seasoned hiker and first-timers are welcome! The routes are fully waymarked and led by expert hiking leaders, with plenty of support points along the way.
What happens on the day?
You're in safe hands from the start and every Big Hike includes:
- A fully signposted route with expert hiking leaders to guide you and volunteers to cheer you on
- Support points with toilets, drinks and snacks
- Medical assistance
- A hot meal at the finish to celebrate your success
- A day full of fun, adventure and memories that'll stay with you long after your boots come off
The atmosphere at these events is genuinely special and you'll be trekking alongside people from all walks of life, all united by the same goal.
Don't let fundraising put you off — here's why you shouldn't worry
The most common reason people hesitate to sign up for charity events is fundraising. It can feel daunting, especially if you've never done it before. But your dedicated Big Hike team has made it as straightforward as possible.
When you register, you get immediate access to a whole package of support before the event even begins:
- A dedicated fundraising hub packed with practical tips and tricks to help you reach your target
- Your own personalised online Giving Page, ready to share from the moment you sign up
- A Facebook community of fellow Big Hikers for motivation, advice, and solidarity
Fundraising today is easier than ever.
Most people raise their target through a combination of a simple social media post, a message to their contacts, and their personal Giving Page, and they're often surprised at how quickly it adds up when people know what it's for. The money raised directly funds cancer research. When your friends and family donate, they're contributing to a cause that's already saved millions of lives, and will save millions more.
Big Hikes showcase some of the best scenery in the UK.
Training for the Big Hike
Signing up to the Big Hike is also the perfect excuse to get outside more. And you won't be left to figure out your preparation alone.
Every participant gets access to custom training support, including training plans tailored to your chosen distance. Whether you're aiming for the 10k or the full marathon, you'll get a structured plan to build your fitness and confidence ahead of your event.
If you're already a regular walker, runner or cyclist, you'll find the transition to the training straightforward. If you're new to this level of physical activity, the plans are designed to bring you along gradually and safely.
Who is the Big Hike for?
The short answer: everyone.
Big Hike draws an incredibly diverse crowd. You'll find experienced hikers who've done dozens of events, first-timers who've never entered anything before, runners who fancy a change of pace, cyclists who want to get their boots on, and those seeking a way to walk in memory of someone they love.
Cancer has touched almost every family in the UK. If you're looking for a way to do something to make a difference — to turn grief, or hope, or simply the desire to help into action — then putting one foot in front of the other across one of Britain's beautiful landscapes is a powerful way to start.
Getting involved
How to sign up for the Big Hike 2026
Ready to take on a Big Hike? You can browse all 2026 events, check dates and locations, and register here. Places are limited at each venue (some have already sold out!), so it's worth securing yours sooner rather than later.