Event Type:Running, Walks, Ultra Challenge Series
Thames Path Challenge
Share this event
Location:Putney Bridge
Distance:22 - 100km
Registration fee:From £20
Fundraising target:£70 - £575
Event date:12th Sep 2026
Take on the 2026 Thames Path Challenge for Make-A-Wish UK, because every child deserves to wish for more than a life defined by illness.
The Thames Path Ultra Challenge invites you to walk, jog or run a distance of your choice, alongside England’s greatest river. With distances ranging from 10km to 100km, there's a challenge here for everyone.
How much does it cost to enter?
There are various pricing options depending on which distance and fundraising option you choose. As Make-A-Wish UK are an official partner on this event, you get a 25% discount on the ‘Full Sponsorship’ registration fee when you sign up to support us.
Registration fees start from as little as £20, and fundraising targets range from £70 to £575. View all the different options here.
How we'll support you
- Free #WishHero top
- Access to our training app; for training, injury and nutritional advice
- Regular support emails, key information and fundraising tips
- Any fundraising materials you need along the way
- Social media toolkit
- A dedicated contact in the Challenge Events team
- Thank you letter and certificate
What you get from the Ultra Challenge organisers:
- An inclusive & fun event with a great atmosphere and camaraderie
- A choice of distance and pace - it’s your challenge, your way!
- A fully signed route, with a team of ‘Trekmasters’ out on the trail with you
- Regular covered rest stops, with free food, drink, massages and medics
- An epic finish line moment, with a glass of fizz, medal and t-shirt
- Camping, transfer and parking options to make getting there & away easy
What is the route like?
Choose from the full 100km challenge, 72km, 50km, 28km, 22km, or 10km.
The full 100km challenge follows England’s greatest river, from Putney Bridge past Hampton Court to Runnymede at 50km. Then, you walk on through Windsor and wonderful historic scenery all the way to Henley.
There's a challenge here for everyone and you can join as an individual or a team of friends/family.
The route will be signed, with free food and drink at regular rest stops, plus support including medics, marshals and massage.
Your Thames Path Ultra Challenge Training Plan
Taking on an Ultra Challenge is no mean feat. As one of our #WishHeroes, you'll have exclusive access to an online training hub and app, providing all the information and support you'll need to prepare for the event. The Hub includes beginner, intermediate and advanced training plans, as well as advice on nutrition, hydration, and injury prevention.
Still have questions?
Take a look at our FAQs below for more information on everything from entering the event to what to expect on the day.
Before the event
How do I find details for the day?
Once you have signed up for the Thames Path Ultra Challenge, you will be able to access the app which will contain all the key information you need, including the final event guide, route maps, parking, camping & transfers and FAQs on managing your place. The App will also get updated in the lead up to the Challenge, – so make sure you have it on your phone!
Fundraising
How do I start my fundraising?
We recommend setting up a page with JustGiving. It’s the easiest and safest way to collect donations online, and all funds transfer directly through to Make-A-Wish UK.
What happens if I don’t reach my fundraising target?
Everyone has 4 weeks post-event to finalise their fundraising, and we’re here to help at any point if you need extra ideas or resources. We ask that you fundraise a certain target to allow us to cover the cost of your place, whilst also making sure that money goes towards granting wishes. If you are still struggling to meet the fundraising target by the deadline, please get in touch so we can work with you to put a plan in place.
How long do I have to fundraise?
You have 4 weeks after the event to continue fundraising. Please note that we will still take into account any matched funding that reaches us after this date.
Where will my money go?
Your fundraising will grant life-changing wishes for children living with critical illnesses in the UK. Wishes have a profound and lasting effect on critically ill children and their loved ones, so your fundraising will help to create memories that will last forever - no matter what the future holds.
What support will I get?
What support will Make-A-Wish offer me?
The Challenge Events Team will support you every step of the way with...
- A free #WishHero top
- Access to our online training hub and app; for training, injury and nutritional advice
- Regular support emails, key information and fundraising tips
- Any fundraising materials you need along the way
- A social media toolkit
- A dedicated contact in the Challenge Events team
- A thank you letter and certificate
How do I get in touch with the Challenge Events Team at Make-A-Wish UK?
You can email the team on [email protected] or call the main line on 01276 405060