Princess Kate Completed The Three Peaks Challenge – But What Is It?

This weekend Catherine, the Princess of Wales, became the first member of the royal family to complete the Three Peaks Challenge. She took on the notoriously tough endeavour to raise money for a cancer charity – a cause close to her heart. Kate revealed she was having treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer in early 2024, and announced she was in remission in January 2025.

The Three Peaks challenge involves climbing the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales within a 24-hour period, with Kate describing it as a ‘chance to explore life beyond diagnosis and to give something back.’ She carried out the challenge alone, supported by Mountain Rescue, with her family waiting to greet her at the finish line – including William, the Prince of Wales, and their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Her parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, and brother James, were also there.

Ben Nevis (c) Unsplash

Speaking about the cause, Kate said: ‘The Royal Marsden is a place that holds great meaning for me and whose care and expertise are life-changing for so many people. Through this challenge, I want to raise awareness for the deeper impact of serious illness and the importance of holistic healthcare.

‘Every year, hundreds of thousands of people in this country hear the words no one wants to hear. What follows is a path that tests every part of who we are: physically, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. The challenges ripple outwards, touching families, friendships, work and the quiet moments we spend alone with our thoughts.

‘Cancer doesn’t just affect the body. It changes how you think and feel and profoundly affects every aspect of life. I know this personally.’

Funds raised will go towards the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, which helps fund life-saving cancer research and provide better treatments to patients.

What Is The Three Peaks Challenge?

The National Three Peaks Challenge involves climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Mount Snowden within 24 hours. It’s a gruelling physical and mental challenge: participants must walk for 23 miles, with a total ascent of 3,064m, driving between the different mountains in between (covering a total distance of around 450 miles). Due to the time constraints, one mountain must be climbed and descended in the dark – with little sleep and exhausted legs. Tricky weather conditions, meanwhile, can make it even more difficult (Ben Nevis in particular is known for its unpredictable weather).

Although 90 percent of people who attempt the challenge complete it, only 40 percent manage it within 24 hours. The legendary runner Joss Naylor holds the record for the fastest Three Peaks Challenge time, finishing in an incredible 11 hours and 56 minutes.

Scafell Pike (c) Unsplash

Being the UK’s highest mountain at 1,345m tall, Ben Nevis is widely regarded as the toughest of the three. Part of the Grampian Mountain range, the mountain was once an active volcano which collapsed inwards on itself millions of years ago. With its towering cliffs and rugged terrain, it’s a relentless climb but on clear days walkers are rewarded with unforgettable views across the Scottish Highlands.

Scafell Pike in the Lake District, meanwhile, is England’s highest mountain at 978m tall. The most popular and direct route begins at Wasdale Head, maintaining a steep but steady gradient to the summit – with people usually getting up and down in around three to four hours.

Mount Snowdon is the highest peak in Wales at 1,085m. Most Three Peakers follow either the Pyg Track or Miners Track, enjoying scenic views of the National Park along the route – think dramatic cliffs and sprawling lakes (no surprise Snowdon is the most photographed mountain in the UK). 

Keen to follow in Kate’s footsteps and give it a go? Find more information and sign view upcoming events at threepeakschallenge.uk.