What a day!

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that The Great Southern Walk 2025 raised a staggering £8724!

This will make an enormous impact for our two brilliant partner charities: The Prince of Wales Youth Club and Rising Sun Domestic Violence and Abuse Service. The whole day was a huge success, bringing the community together to support a fantastic cause, and have great fun! 

With glorious sunshine, the day started with our brave 15-mile walkers arriving to the starting line, armed with walking poles and dog leads. Before the walkers set off, Abbie from Rising Sun and Bryony from The Prince of Wales Youth Club took the lead of the brilliant Fran from Kingsmead Leisure Centre in a warm-up to get those legs going, to the tune of Sweet Caroline (So good! So good! So good!). Suitably pumped up, everyone headed to the starting line, with robins singing and the sunlight streaming through the trees. In 5…4…3…2…1, the Lord Mayor of Canterbury cut the ribbon, and the 15-mile walk had begun!

“A lovely community event enjoyed by adults, children and dogs alike”- Walker feedback

Everyone walked at their own pace, in groups, twos, families, and solo, taking in the breathtaking views and beautiful Kentish countryside. Halfway through the walk, our walkers could have a break at the water station to have a complementary snack, manned by enthusiastic volunteers singing and dancing to keep everyone’s spirits high.

“A beautiful, well-planned hike for anyone walking their first 15 miles!”- Walker feedback

Meanwhile, the 5-mile walkers began to gather. We were once again treated to a fantastic warmup from Kingsmead Leisure Centre’s trainer Fran, before Tim Brett cut the ribbon and announced the start of the 5-mile walk! It was a wonderful moment, as the initial idea for The Great Southern Walk came from Tim himself. The 5-mile walkers also comprised of students and teachers from The King’s School, who took the opportunity to organise a large group to really make the most of the day.

“A fabulous walk through the stunning countryside that is probably on your doorstep and that you would have never discovered unless you signed up to this amazing charity event!” – Walker feedback

Along both routes, there were a team of volunteer marshals stationed at various points including road crossings and sharp turns, supporting walkers along the way. There were also 68 signs to help anyone who might need extra guidance alongside the carefully plotted maps. Members of The Great Southern Walk committee formed the back of the group, there to rescue any walkers who may need help. In the end, their services were only required by a wayward sheep caught in a shrub (and promptly freed!).

“Absolutely stunning and amazing views along the whole route”- Walker feedback

Both routes took walkers through specially selected views, scenery, and landmarks. The 15-mile walk was a real challenge, tackled admirably by every walker who bravely made it to the finish line. The 5-mile walk was more relaxed, winding alongside the River Stour.

Our first walker returned to the finish line in an astonishing 3 hours and 15 minutes – wow! Soon, groups and solo walkers started their victorious final stretch, being welcomed by cheers, applause, and Nurse Nelly from the Marlowe Theatre’s panto! Every walker received a custom, eco-friendly wooden medal for their incredible achievement.

“What’s not to love? Walking through the beautiful Kent countryside while supporting a good cause!” – Walker feedback

Then, the celebrations began. We were thrilled to feature the best of Kent’s food and drink offerings, as well as brilliant free physiotherapy from Level Health. We all enjoyed sweet treats from Sumo Donuts, pizza from The Next Slice, ice cream from Faversham Ices, and hot drinks from HatHats. Walkers from different places, organisations, and families, had the opportunity to mingle and chat, as well as speak to team members from Rising Sun and The Prince of Wales.

Every penny raised from this brilliant day goes to our two charities. Thanks to the success of The Great Southern Walk 2025, our charities can reach even more children, young people, families, and survivors of domestic abuse in our local communities. One day of challenging walking has a huge legacy for every single individual supported by these life-changing charities.

“Wonderful to see such a diverse group of people walking together to support Rising Sun and The Prince of Wales youth club.” – Walker feedback

We can’t thank our sponsors, volunteers, and of course our dedicated walkers enough for making the first ever Great Southern Walk such a great success, and a positive day bringing people together. We’re already planning next year’s walk. Watch this space!