In 2024, take on an incredible challenge for ground-breaking cancer research.
Join us in May 2024 and take on the South Downs Challenge and raise funds for groundbreaking cancer research at The Royal Marsden. At 26 miles in a single day, the South Downs Challenge is not for the faint of heart, but the breath taking views and the sense of achievement at the finish line will be unrivalled!
Taking place on Saturday 4 May, our South Downs Challenge 2024 is being organised especially for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity by our amazing partners at Charity Challenge.
Find out more information and sign up here.
On this page:
The South Downs Challenge Route
Discover the beauty of the South Downs.
Starting from the small village of Falmer, you will trek along the stunningly scenic South Downs National Trail. You will be trekking over rolling hills, high ridges peppered with long barrows, ancient earthworks, and occasionally magnificent panoramas over the English Channel.
The trek will tackle some steep climbs and descents as you follow the South Downs way. At the end of the trek you will follow the breath-taking final stretch over the white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters, before finishing on the highest chalk sea cliff in England – the beautiful headland of Beachy Head.
Walk alongside other supporters like you.
On the day, you will be trekking alongside fellow supporters of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. Together we will take on the challenge, enjoy camaraderie and incredible views, and raise vital funds for groundbreaking cancer research!
Every step makes a difference.
"Becky and I feel so thankful to The Royal Marsden for the incredible support they have shown two family members through their fight with cancer. The walks we do like the Souths Downs Challenge are a small token of our support to try and give as much back as we can."
"We will remain forever indebted to the staff at The Royal Marsden for their perseverance, support, love and care. There are no words to say how thankful we are to them all."
- Jamie, South Downs Challenge participant and supporter.
Thanks to our supporters we continue to be there for everyone who needs us. We ensure the nurses, doctors and research teams at The Royal Marsden can provide the very best care and develop life-saving treatments, which are used across the UK and around the world.
How to take part
1. Register.
Whether you sign up by yourself or with a group, you will be trekking alongside fellow supporters of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. Registration is £45 per person. There are then two fundraising options you can choose from a minimum sponsorship option or you can choose to self fund your challenge.
If you choose the minimum sponsorship option, you pledge to raise £215 for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity and the charity will pay your challenge costs. If you choose the self funder option, you will pay the event organisers, Charity Challenge the challenge costs of £100 nine weeks before the event. When you self-fund there is no minimum target but we hope you will try and raise as much as you can for the amazing work of The Royal Marsden.
2. Fundraise.
You will have a dedicated member of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity team on hand to help you with advice and tips on fundraising. We will be there for you every step of the way!
3. Get ready for the day.
Our partners at Charity Challenge will provide everything you need to help get you trek ready including training plans and discounts for any new gear you might need to purchase.
4. Take on the trail for The Royal Marsden!
Join us on Saturday 4 May 2024 and take on the South Downs Way!
Ready to take on the challenge?
Sign up for your place on our South Downs Challenge 2024 today, or find out more here.
What's included when I join Team Marsden?
Your registration includes:
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Your very own Royal Marsden Cancer Charity t-shirt to wear on the day.
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A 12.5% discount at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow and Rock and Runners need.
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Support and fundraising advice from a dedicated member of staff at The Royal Marsden and training support via your charity challenge account.
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On the day you will also receive a well deserved medal to celebrate your achievement!
On challenge day, your safety and enjoyment is our priority.
On the day you will also have:
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Fully qualified Charity Challenge leaders to support and guide you through the trek.
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Safety checkpoints along the whole route including first-aid qualified staff and first-aid supplies.
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Packed lunch, snacks, drinks and water.
Still got Questions? Find out more on Charity Challenge's website.
Team Marsden gallery
