Find the training plan that's right for you. Visit the Big Hike training support page for custom training plans tailored to your chosen distance.
Connect with other Big Hikers and join the Big Hike Facebook community.
Plan your transport and accommodation, download the what3words app to help you find the start line, and check your arrival time before your wave starts. For more information, visit your event page and keep an eye on emails from us.
When you arrive, collect your event number from the enquiries tent.
Keep your event number attached throughout the walk.
Scan the QR code after you finish to view your finish time.
At least 2 litres of water (you can fill up at stations across the route)
Phone and portable charger
Trekking poles (recommended)
Sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and at least a 4-star rating, sunhat and sunglasses
Plasters
Snacks
A spare pair of socks
Warm clothes for when you’re finished
A rucksack
Big Hike T-shirt and back sign (attach it with safety pins)
Waterproof clothing
Light trekking trousers and/or shorts
Base layer and microfleece top
Walking socks (wear tight-fitting socks with another pair over the top to avoid blisters)
Hiking footwear (well broken-in walking shoes or boots rather than brand-new footwear)
It's time to lace up your boots. Take these steps to make the most of your Big Hike experience.
Remember to warm up, cool down and stick to your training plan; there's no need to rush. If you feel any aches or pains that don't go away, speak to your GP before heading out on your next walk.
To fuel research with your Big Hike, you have to fuel yourself.
Make sure you're eating well and getting all the nutrients you need, both on the day and in your training.
Are your shoes ready to stroll through the stunning scenery, and have you got the right layers for the changeable Great British summertime? Go to your local sports shop and check you have everything you need for your Big Hike, and remember to try out any new gear during training, not on event day.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast before setting off so you can be prepared with sunscreen, a rain mac, or both!
Make sure you've had plenty of water and have some with you.
We have refilling stations around the route so you can keep your bottle filled and replace the water you're losing with your big steps to beat cancer.
Rest days are as important as training days.
Make sure you have at least one day off a week to let your body recover, especially after longer walks or hillier hikes.
Share your training milestones, Big Hike highlights and finish-line photos with family and friends. Post them on your Giving Page too, helping to boost your motivation and inspire even more support for life-saving cancer research.
Your Big Hike journey doesn't have to end at the finish line…
Your Giving Page stays open after event day, so keep sharing your achievement and collecting donations.
Join the conversation and celebrate your success with fellow hikers in our Facebook community group.
Feeling inspired? From fundraising to volunteering, there are lots of ways you can get involved and support Cancer Research UK.
Find answers to commonly asked questions about Big Hike.
