3 races
Event overview
Take on an unforgettable adventure in Dedham Vale – 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
- Follow peaceful trails through Constable Country’s rolling countryside and river valleys
- Walk beside the picturesque River Stour and Dedham Vale’s scenic landscapes
- Pass through charming villages with traditional pubs and historic churches
- Enjoy friendly support and rest stops along this relaxing rural route
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 photos
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:
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
Tendring Hundred Showground
Bromley Road
Lawford
Manningtree
Essex
CO11 2AG
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
- Sustainability policy
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 18 Jul 2026
- #1 of 3
11:15
Age 12 & over
Sign up £20
Fundraise £200
- 10 km hiking + 250 ft ascent
- Sat 18 Jul 2026
- #2 of 3
09:30
Age 14 & over
Sign up £20
Fundraise £250
- 13.1 miles hiking + 440 ft ascent
- Sat 18 Jul 2026
- #3 of 3
06:45
Age 16 & over
Sign up £25
Fundraise £300
- 26.2 miles hiking + 1000 ft ascent