How to fundraise for cancer support with Macmillan’s Mighty Hikes
Macmillan Cancer Support offers people living with cancer vital support and help.
From helplines to in-person advice and support, the charity is far reaching in the way it helps people from all walks of life and provides care for the 3 million people who are living with cancer in the UK.
The charity provides services, raises money and influences policy. It also conducts cancer research and supports staff who care for cancer patients.
One of its most popular initiatives is Mighty Hikes. Mighty Hikes are an award-winning series of marathon and half marathon hikes, taking place in some of the most beautiful and unspoiled parts of the UK.
Here we break down everything you need to know about Macmillan’s Mighty Hikes and how to start a fundraiser for a Mighty Hike event.
What are Macmillan’s Mighty Hikes?
If you’re looking for a fun way to get fit, a memorable day out with friends and family, and a chance to celebrate or remember a loved one, then Mighty Hikes are for you.
Each hike has breathtaking routes, hidden highlights, and unique landmarks. You’ll have the option to choose a full or half marathon challenge, so no matter how experienced you are, there is something for everyone.
You can also choose which location suits you best and may not have to travel too far if you want to take part. There is a list of options here.
There are regular pit stops with snacks and refreshments, a fresh buffet lunch and a hot meal waiting for you when you finish.
Once you sign up, you’ll have access to our expert training advice and fundraising tips to smash your £250 target.
How to fundraise for Macmillan’s Mighty Hikes
Fundraising for Macmillan’s Mighty Hikes is simple if you follow this step-by-step guide.
You can follow this guide whether you’re participating in an event yourself or if you’re raising money on someone else’s behalf.
1. Sign up for a Mighty Hike
It’s very easy to sign up for a Mighty Hike – you just need to decide your preferred location and distance.
You need to consider the distance and what is achievable for you. Think about how far you can realistically go and if you’re physically ready to take on the challenge – no matter the weather!
It’s also important to think about your transport to and from the event and where you would like to start.
2. Choose a fundraising platform
You then need to consider exactly how you want to fundraise and what platform you want to fundraise on.
A few things to consider before choosing your fundraising platform are:
- What the fees are
- If it’s easy to use
- What the customer support is like
- Understanding how safe and reliable the platform is
Keeping these points in mind, GoFundMe is the ideal platform for you to use. GoFundMe believes it’s our responsibility to protect your kindness—by protecting your donation with the GoFundMe Giving Guarantee.
Everything you need to help your fundraiser succeed is here. Start fundraising on the #1 crowdfunding platform today
GoFundMe also offers fundraising tips and care to help you best succeed.
3. Tell your fundraising story
Telling your fundraising story in the best way is one of the most effective ways to make sure you are successful when fundraising.
You should start by explaining why it is you want to fundraise and tell a bit about your story.
If you’re inspired by someone else or you’re explaining something about yourself – now is the time to tell it.
A personal, honest approach is beneficial and it is good to include the following:
- Information about the hike and how funds will be used
- Why the cause is close to your heart
- What impact the funds you raise will have
- When you will be taking part on the hike
- If you have been supported by Macmillan before – how
4. Share your fundraiser
Getting your fundraiser shared far and wide is next.
It’s important to share your fundraiser with your various networks. This can include your friends, family, colleagues or school.
You can also get it shared widely on social media and on your friends and family’s social media platforms.
5. Lace up your hiking boots
There are some final things to consider before taking part.
It can be a bit more challenging than going for a simple walk. You need to think about whether you can commit your time to doing this.
Proper footwear and clothing is a must too. Make sure you have appropriate shoes and clothes for whatever the weather.
Consider if you may need any snacks or drinks along the way too.
Mighty Hikes in the UK 2025
There are more than a dozen Mighty Hikes confirmed for 2025. We’re going to share some details about a few of the most popular.
Lake District Mighty Hike
The Lake District Mighty Hike has two distances – half-marathon and full.
Full marathon
Date: 14 June 2025
Location: Ullswater
Join Registration fee: £25
Fundraising pledge: £250
Distance: 25 miles
Half-marathon
Date: 14 June 2025
Location: Penrith
Join Registration fee: £20
Fundraising pledge: £250
Distance: 12 miles
South Coast Mighty Hike
The South Coast Mighty Hike is also split into half-marathon and full.
Half-marathon
Date: 7 June 2025
Location: Alfriston
Join Registration fee: £20
Fundraising pledge: £250
Distance: 13 miles
Full marathon
Date: 7 June 2025
Location: Brighton
Join Registration fee: £25
Fundraising pledge: £250
Distance: 26 miles
Yorkshire Dales Mighty Hike
The Yorkshire Dales Mighty Hike is still waiting to confirm its dates. There are two options available, though.
Half-marathon
Date: Coming soon
Location: Skipton
Join Registration fee: £25
Fundraising pledge: £250
Distance: 14 miles
Full marathon
Date: Coming soon
Location: Skipton
Join Registration fee: £30
Fundraising pledge: £250
Distance: 26 miles
Gower Peninsula Mighty Hike
The Gower Peninsula Mighty Hike is a very scenic choice and is also split into half-marathon and full.
Half-marathon
Date: 5 July 2025
Location: Swansea
Join Registration fee: £20
Fundraising pledge: £250
Distance: 15 miles
Full
Date: 5 July 2025
Location: Swansea
Join Registration fee: £25
Fundraising pledge: £250
Distance: 26 miles
If none of these take your fancy, there are so many Mighty Hikes to choose from here.
Start your Macmillan’s Mighty Hikes fundraiser with GoFundMe
GoFundMe is the best fundraising platform for people wanting to participate in one of Macmillan’s Mighty Hikes.
Join the millions of people fundraising for a cause they care about on GoFundMe and receive support every step of the way. GoFundMe offers customer support around the clock, seven days a week.
GoFundMe also offers fundraising tools to create, share, and raise money, including a mobile app, beneficiary management, and team fundraising.