Hi everyone,

This May, I’m taking on one of the UK’s toughest challenges: walking the 374 km Cape Wrath Trail through the wild and remote Scottish Highlands to raise money for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. This isn’t just about testing my limits—it’s about honouring my family and making a real difference for those impacted by cancer.

About the Trail:

The Cape Wrath Trail is often called the UK’s hardest hike for good reason. Spanning from Fort William to Cape Wrath, the most north-westerly point on mainland Britain, it’s a journey through some of the most rugged and beautiful landscapes in the world. There are no official signs or markers, so it’s up to me to navigate the unpredictable weather, steep climbs, river crossings, and boggy terrain.

The combined elevation I’ll gain is a staggering 37,000 feet—that’s like climbing Mount Everest and then some! The trail’s isolation means I’ll often go days without seeing or speaking to anyone, making this both a physical and mental test. I’ve chosen to take on this challenge solo as a way to reflect and connect with the strength of those who have faced cancer—people like my grandparents, who inspired this journey.

My Plan:

I’ll be tackling the trail over 16 days, including 2 rest days. Most days, I’ll cover 29-30km with a fully loaded backpack, staying in bothies (basic shelters), wild camping, and hostels on my rest days. I’ve carefully planned a personalised route, with some days featuring longer, tougher sections and others offering shorter recovery stretches. Every step will be a reminder of the fight that so many people face every day.

Why the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity?

Cancer is a cause that’s heartbreakingly close to my heart. In 2017, I lost my Nana Gill to a sudden and aggressive cancer. She was a passionate walker and hiker—someone I see so much of myself in. Her fight was brief but incredibly tough, and she inspired me with her resilience.

More recently, in 2023 I lost my Grumps, my grandfather, to a similar cancer. My Nana on my dad’s side has also faced her own battle, reminding me that cancer touches nearly every family in some way.

The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity is at the forefront of changing the future for cancer patients and their families. They fund life-saving research, pioneering treatments, and world-class care, bringing hope to those who need it most. Supporting their work is my way of giving back and helping ensure that no one has to face cancer alone.

How You Can Help:

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a real difference. £5, £20, £50—whatever you can give will help the Royal Marsden continue their incredible work.

You can also follow my journey on Instagram @hannahfhikes, where I’ll share updates on my training, planning, and the hike itself. Your support will mean everything to me as I take on this challenge.

Together, we can honour those we’ve lost, support those still fighting, and help create a future where cancer is no longer so devastating.

Thank you so much for being part of this journey. Let’s make a difference together!