Big Hike | Lake District
Sat 27 Jun 2026 Ambleside, Lake District National Park, UK

Big Hike | Lake District

Escape to nature and experience the Lake District National Park. You’ll explore majestic mountains, stunning rivers and take in the beautiful scenery, all whilst supporting life-saving research.

3 races

  • Sat 27 Jun 2026
  • #1 of 3
Grasmere Lakeland Sports & Show, Ambleside

10K

11:00

Age 12 & over

Sign up £20

Fundraise £200

  • 10 km hiking + 500 ft ascent
  • Sat 27 Jun 2026
  • #2 of 3
Grasmere Lakeland Sports & Show, Ambleside

Half Marathon

09:30

Age 14 & over

Sign up £20

Fundraise £250

  • 13.1 miles hiking + 1200 ft ascent
  • Sat 27 Jun 2026
  • #3 of 3
Grasmere Lakeland Sports & Show, Ambleside

Full Marathon

06:45

Age 16 & over

Sign up £25

Fundraise £300

  • 26.2 miles hiking + 2400 ft ascent

Event overview

Take on an unforgettable adventure in the Lake District – and every step you take will help fund life-saving cancer research.

Whether you’re a first-time hiker or a seasoned trekker, Big Hike is designed for anyone ready to rise to the challenge. With fully signposted routes, marshals cheering you on, and support stations along the way, you’ll have everything you need to go the distance.

You’ll receive a fundraising pack to help you smash your target, and a hot meal at the finish. Most of all, you’ll be part of a community taking big steps to power the next big breakthrough.

Highlights

  • Explore the breathtaking scenery of England’s largest national park
  • Follow peaceful lakeside trails and scenic fell paths with panoramic views
  • Pass through charming Cumbrian villages and rolling countryside
  • Enjoy friendly support, rest stops and refreshments along the way

So, step out of the hustle and bustle and into the great outdoors. Because when you take big steps, Cancer Research UK makes big breakthroughs.

Event video

  • Event village
  • Families
  • Fancy dress
  • Newcomers
  • Spectators
  • Teams

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.

  • Cafe
  • Free parking
  • Rural
  • Toilets

Event HQ

Grasmere Lakeland Sports & Show
Stock Lane
Grasmere
Ambleside
Lake District National Park
LA22 9SJ
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.

  • Recycling

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

Races at event

  • Sat 27 Jun 2026
  • #1 of 3
Grasmere Lakeland Sports & Show, Ambleside
10K

11:00

Age 12 & over

Sign up £20

Fundraise £200

  • 10 km hiking + 500 ft ascent
  • Sat 27 Jun 2026
  • #2 of 3
Grasmere Lakeland Sports & Show, Ambleside
Half Marathon

09:30

Age 14 & over

Sign up £20

Fundraise £250

  • 13.1 miles hiking + 1200 ft ascent
  • Sat 27 Jun 2026
  • #3 of 3
Grasmere Lakeland Sports & Show, Ambleside
Full Marathon

06:45

Age 16 & over

Sign up £25

Fundraise £300

  • 26.2 miles hiking + 2400 ft ascent

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4 steps to wellbeing
Sleep well

A good night's sleep is an essential foundation for a healthy lifestyle, effective training and weight control.

Train slow

Low-intensity training is easier for you, reduces the risk of injury and helps builds an efficient aerobic system.

Eat natural

Cut out sugar & junk food, reduce carbs, eat natural foods and train your body to burn fat for fuel.

Get outdoors

Fresh air, natural light and reconnecting with nature all help to improve mental and physical wellbeing.