NewsThe Great Southern Walk 2025

The Great Southern Walk 2025

9th October 2025
Walkers setting off w sunlight and hug

On Sunday 14th September, hundreds of dedicated walkers took part in the first ever Great Southern Walk, to raise money for Rising Sun and the Prince of Wales Youth Club.

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that The Great Southern Walk 2025 raised a staggering £8724!

The whole day was a huge success, bringing the community together in support of two vital local charities.

The day was filled with glorious sunshine, as 260 walkers tackled the challenging 15-mile route, and the more relaxed 5-mile walk. The Lord Mayor of Canterbury cut the ribbon to start the walkers off in style, and the High Sherriff of Kent completed the walk himself.

Walkers, dogs, and families enjoyed stunning views in the Kent countryside, tracking the routes high into the Kent Downs, through ancient woodlands, and alongside the River Stour.

on walk jacqi
Walkers with thumbs up
Mayor with Roger, Fran, Joey, mr neame

The first walker returned to the finish line in an astonishing 3 hours and 15 minutes – wow! Soon, groups and solo walkers started their victorious final stretch, being welcomed by cheers, applause, and Nurse Nelly from the Marlowe Theatre’s panto. Every walker received a custom, eco-friendly wooden medal for their incredible achievement.

Then, the celebrations began, featuring the best of Kent’s food and drink offerings, as well as brilliant free physiotherapy from Level Health. There were sweet treats from Sumo Donuts, pizza from The Next Slice, ice cream from Faversham Ices, and hot drinks from HatHats. Walkers from different places, organisations, and families, had the opportunity to mingle and chat, as well as speak to team members from Rising Sun and The Prince of Wales.

Walker hooray
Gurkha group photo
Finish line pics w panto dame and dogs
smiley walkers with medals

It was hugely rewarding to partner with The Prince of Wales throughout the Great Southern Walk, and to raise such a fantastic amount alongside them. They have been a vital part of Canterbury’s community for decades, providing inclusive activities for children and young people since 1935. To see hundreds of walkers come together in support of our two charities was brilliant, and showed that the Kent community shares our mission to end domestic abuse.

We are grateful to all of the sponsors of The Great Southern Walk: Brett Group, Quinn Estates, Edmundson Electrical, Barretts of Kent, Parkers Design and Print, and Sumo Donuts. Their support meant that every penny from every ticket went to Rising Sun and the Prince of Wales.

What truly made the day a success were the walkers, who turned up in droves with enthusiasm, commitment, and lots of laughter.

We’ll be announcing The Great Southern Walk 2026 date soon – if you’re feeling inspired, keep an eye on the website, or follow the social media at @tgsw_uk for updates!

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