Walking and Hiking
Taking on a sponsored hike for Pilgrims Hospices is a fun, sociable way to support vital hospice care across east Kent.
Put your best foot forward and hike for local hospice care. Whether you're looking to explore the east Kent countryside, the best of Britain's coastlines and trails or climb mountains further afield. We have hikes taking place throughout the year, and there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Pilgrims Way Challenge
The Pilgrims Way Challenge is back on Saturday 15 June 2024.
Our award-winning Pilgrims Way Challenge is a great way to spend time outdoors this summer. Lace up your walking boots, or running shoes, and enjoy the rural beauty of one of England's oldest and least-trodden national trails. Starting from the picturesque village of Wye, nestled in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you'll follow the Pilgrims Way, through the scenic Stour Valley, to the historic cathedral city of Canterbury. Then, onward via the North Downs Way to a coastal finish inside the impressive inner bailey of Dover Castle.
With three distances to choose from, the Pilgrims Way Challenge is perfect for people of all fitness levels. Whether you hike 25km, 35km, or 55km, you'll stroll through charming villages of oast houses and period cottages, whilst being surrounded by endless green fields. Rolling hillside views, quiet country lanes, historic buildings, and ancient woodlands all await you. The Pilgrims Way between Wye and Dover really has it all.
With a maximum of 800 participants able to take part in the Pilgrims Way Challenge, and last year's event selling out, we highly advise early registration to avoid disappointment.
Ultra Challenge Series
Whichever challenge you choose, the experience will be unforgettable.
Push yourself further! The Ultra Challenge Series gives you the chance to walk, jog or run along stunning coastlines, or on trails in the best of Britain's countryside. With multiple distances to choose from at each event, there's an Ultra Challenge for everyone. As you pass stunning scenery, you'll meet new friends, discover hidden resilience, and experience true camaraderie as you enjoy a fully-supported event, in a location and a distance of your choice. Which hike will you complete for local hospice care?
- Isle of Wight Challenge - Saturday 4 May 2024
- Jurassic Coast Challenge - Saturday 18 May 2024
- London 2 Brighton Challenge - Saturday 25 May 2024
- Lake District Challenge - Saturday 8 June 2024
- South Coast Challenge - Saturday 7 September 2024
- Thames Bridges Trek - Saturday 14 September 2024
- Thames Path Challenge - Saturday 14 September 2024
Folkstone Downs Challenge
The Folkestone Downs Challenge is back by popular demand for its third year on Saturday 31 August 2024.
Put your best foot forward and take on a 36km route designed to showcase the very best of Kent's spectacular south coast. Starting from the Folkestone Harbour Arm, you'll climb to the height of Kent's famous white cliffs and enjoy breathtaking views over the English Channel, Folkestone, and Romney Marsh beyond as you follow the chalk ridgeline westward.
Along the way, you'll pass Castle Hill, the site of an early Norman fortification, as well as the Folkestone White Horse, before reaching one of the highest points of the North Downs at Tolsford Hill (181m). From there, your trail descends through fields and woodland to the picturesque Lympne Castle, with a chance of glimpsing some exotic animals as you pass by Port Lympne Safari Park. Then, you'll join the scenic pathways of the Royal Military Canal through Hythe and Sandgate on your return to Folkestone's historic harbour.
Order a Pilgrims technical t-shirt
Show your support with the official Pilgrims Hospices techncial t-shirt.
The Pilgrims Hospices technical t-shirt is made of lightweight, breathable, sweat-wicking material that makes them comfortable to wear during walks and hikes, to show your support for Pilgrims Hospices as you trek for local hospice care.
Technical t-shirt £7 (available in sizes S, M, L, XL, XXL and XXXL)
