Big Hike | Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) | Marathon

Start time

You'll have a choice of start times when you sign up. if you're a slower walker, opt for an earlier arrival time so you can fully enjoy the day.

Duration

Depending on pace:

• 10K (6 miles) | 1.5 - 3 hours 
• Half marathon | 3.5 - 6 hours 
• Full marathon | 7 - 12 hours

Finish time

Due to venue restrictions, the finish area will need to be closed from 7.30pm.

For safety, sweep marshals will ensure all walkers will get back to the finish by the cut off.

Kit list

A recommended kit list will be provided. 

Wheelchair users

The venue is wheelchair-friendly, but the course is not.

Dogs

Service dogs only.

Walkers only

It is a non-competitive walk, so running is not allowed.

Overview

Step up to the ultimate Big Hike challenge: a full marathon hike through the heart of the Brecon Beacons. This circular, anti-clockwise route covers 26 unforgettable miles, climbing 2,500ft as you follow the Taff Trail and Usk Valley Walk, pass through the tranquil Taf Fechan Forest, and trace paths beside tumbling waterfalls — all with dramatic mountains as your backdrop.

All routes are fully signposted so all you need to do is lace up your hiking boots and take in the extraordinary views.

Map

Support & services

Even solo walkers won't be alone! Along the way, you’ll find three fully stocked support points:

• Fully signposted routes with marshals on hand
• Water refill stations and snacks at the start area
• Water refill points, hot drinks and snacks along the route
• Lunch at the second support point followed by a hot meal at the finish area (with dietary needs catered for)
• Toilets, music and seating to help you recharge

Duration & cut off

Most participants complete the marathon in 7-12 hours. The cut-off time for finishing is 7.30pm.

Please note that the routes are subject to change.

Event HQ

Talybont Farm Campsite
Mill Lane
Talybont-on-Usk
Brecon
Powys
LD3 7YJ
UK

Free parking

There will be free car parking for all participants for the duration of your hike. Look for the Cancer Research UK flags at the entrance to the start venues where charity representatives will direct you.

By public transport

• Train: The closest mainline railway station to the start/finish venue is Abergavenny
• Bus: Several bus lines stop at Talybont Farm

Before

• Cancer Research UK t-shirt
• Online giving page
• Fundraising zone
• Training plan
• Big Hike Facebook Group
• Kit checklist
• Hiker number
• Chip timing
• Back sign
• Safety pins

On event day

• Mass warm-up
• Fully signposted route
• Marshals to guide you
• Medical assistance
• Cancer Research UK medal
• Recorded finish time
• Snacks and drinks
• Hot meal at the finish

Useful resources

• Big Hike Giving Page (individual or team)
• Training tracking
• Big Hike Fundraising guide & tips
• Big Hike Sponsorship form
• Big Hike Fundraising poster
• Big Hike Training plan

Training plan

Whether you're a regular hiker or new to walking, it's important to train so you're comfortable and can enjoy the big day. You'll receive expert training plans and tips to help you prepare for your hike.

Environmentally mindful

• Envelope, back sign, letter and hiking number can all be recycled (remove chip first)
• T-shirts are made from recycled plastic (rPET materials)
• Recyclable cutlery will be provided
• Route maps are digital

Cancer Research UK

Nearly 1 in 2 of us will get cancer in our lifetime.

Every pound you raise helps towards greater chances of diagnosis, prevention and providing kinder treatments to those living with cancer.

Your entry fee helps cover the cost of putting the event on. But it doesn't stop there. The money you raise will help change the lives of people affected by cancer.

When you reach your Big Hike fundraising target, Cancer Research UK funds long-term research. And when this happens, the biggest breakthroughs are made.

You'll be supporting the vital work of over 4,000 scientists, doctors and nurses who are taking on more than 200 types of cancer.

How your funds help

• £150

  Could pay for a day of the clinical trial of the iKnife for breast cancer removal surgery.

• £200

  Could fund a team of cancer nurses for an hour, offering confidential support and guidance.

• £500

  Could fund a lab technician for a week, bringing us closer to the next cancer research breakthrough.

So walk together, fundraise and play your part to support life-saving science because your big steps help Cancer Research UK make big breakthroughs.

Entry fees