About
The Great Southern Walk is Kent’s newest annual community event — a 15-mile challenge walk and 5-mile family walk set in the breathtaking Kent Downs. Taking place on Sunday 14th September 2025, the event brings together residents, businesses, and organisations to raise funds for two life-changing charities: The Prince of Wales Youth Club and Rising Sun.
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 The Charities
We Support
Prince of Wales Youth Club provides a safe and friendly environment for young people to flourish, supporting children and young people to gain new skills and combat issues they are facing. They have been delivering inclusive sessions to promote development and wellbeing for disadvantaged children in Canterbury since 1935.
Rising Sun Domestic Violence and Abuse Service empower and support adults and children affected by domestic abuse in Canterbury, Ashford, and Folkestone & Hythe. They support survivors from age 5 upwards through mentoring, counselling, group programmes, emergency safeguarding, supported accommodation and weekly drop-in services.
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What to expect on
the day
15-Mile Challenge Walk
Starts 9:00am. Explore rolling hills and valleys, remote hamlets, and ancient woodland with 1,300+ ft of elevation.
5-Mile Family Walk
Starts 11.30am, this route is mostly flat and perfect for families with children, along the River Stour.
 All participants receive medals.
 There will be food & drink available to purchase at the start/finish line.
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Who
We Are
The Great Southern Walk brings together a passionate team of local people and leaders, working together to create a memorable and meaningful event.
Organising Committee:
Tim Brett ~ Founder
Roger Hickman ~ Chairman
Rachel Brett ~ Secretary
Peter Woolnough ~ Treasurer
Bryony Wicks, Joey Wicks ~ Prince of Wales Youth Club
Abbie Schryver, Fran Ellis, Emma Gray ~ Rising Sun
Alan Roberton ~ Route Planner
Robert Saints ~ Digital, Branding & IT
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Platform
for Local Business
We are proud to work alongside local businesses who are generously sponsoring the event.
Sponsors gain:
Brand visibility across Kent and beyond
Public recognition through PR, signage, and media assets
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Learn more at: sponsorships@thegreatsouthernwalk.co.uk
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Location
The event starts and finishes in Thanington, Canterbury, with both routes set across the Kent Downs AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).