The BIG Hike 2026

Location: Hadrian's Wall - Walltown Country Park to Housesteads

When: Saturday 16 May 2026

Time: All Day Event

Challenge yourself in 2026 and join us as we take on a 20km hike along Hadrian’s Wall.

​Nearly 2,000 years after it was built, Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and arguably the most popular tourist attraction in Northern England. A remarkable amount of it remains – in fortresses and settlements, in ‘mile castles’ and bath houses, barracks, ramparts and in long, uninterrupted stretches of the wall itself.

Hikers will take on the wonders, beauty and history of Hadrian’s Wall, but don’t be fooled – this isn’t a challenge for the light-hearted!

This 20km hike will push trekkers to the limit as they aim to conquer steep inclines, including its highest point at 1,000ft, and complete the challenge in under 8 hours!

​Starting at the beautiful Walltown Country Park, the route will celebrate our beautiful Northumberland heritage by touring through stunning valleys and fells, not to mention notorious spots in North East history, such as Housesteads Roman fort, and the recently felled Sycamore Gap. Crawfields Quarry, Steel Rigg, Crag Lough will also feature along this breathtaking experience, along with the remarkable uninterrupted stretches of the wall itself that remain.

Not only will you undergo some exhilarating gradients to really push yourself, but you’ll also gain a wealth of knowledge from the guides who are experts in the 2000-year history of Hadrian’s Wall.

​The hike will be led by the fantastic Challenge Northumberland team and some amazing volunteer guides.

All finishers will receive a memento from the day and also have use of the

FREE Transport back to the start at Walltown Country Park.

Whether you're already a hiking pro or looking for a new challenge, we'd love for you to join us.

Entry fee: £30.00 per person

Minimum Sponsorship: £250

If you would like a place in 2026, please contact Ali English on: 01207 529 224 / aenglish@willowburnhospice.org.uk

To secure your place for 2026 please contact our Fundraiser, Ali English