Last week, the Princess of Wales completed the National Three Peaks in aid of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, taking on one of Britain’s best-known endurance challenges.
Linking the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales, it combines around 23 miles of walking, more than 10,000ft of ascent and long drives between each summit.
Greeted at the finish by Prince William, their children and members of her family, Catherine’s achievement has shone a light on a challenge that has long appealed to serious walkers and fundraisers alike. Tempted to give it a go yourself? Here’s everything you need to know.
What is the National Three Peaks?
The National Three Peaks Challenge involves climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Yr Wyddfa, also known as Snowdon, within 24 hours. In total, it covers around 23 miles on foot, but the scale of the challenge comes as much from the logistics as the walking itself, with hours of road travel between the mountains.
Unlike a single long-distance route, the challenge is made up of three separate climbs. That is part of what makes it distinctive. Over the course of a day, walkers move from the Highlands to the Lake District and on to North Wales, taking in three very different mountain landscapes in quick succession.
What does the route take in?
Each part of the challenge has its own character. Ben Nevis offers a dramatic start, with a long, steady ascent through a landscape that is unmistakably Highland – a long, steady climb through dark, rolling slopes, rocky paths and skies that can change in an instant. Conditions can change quickly, and even in summer the mountain demands respect, but on a clear day the views are wide-reaching.
Scafell Pike, usually tackled after the long journey south, feels rougher and more rugged underfoot. The paths are rockier, the terrain more broken, and the climb can be particularly demanding at this stage of the challenge. Even so, the setting is one of the highlights, with views across the Lake District’s fells, valleys and tarns.
Yr Wyddfa (also known as Mount Snowdon) in North Wales provides the final push. By the time walkers get here, fatigue usually sets in, but so does the sense that the finish is close. The mountain rises above the landscape of Snowdonia (Eryri), and by this point the final climb often feels as emotional as it does physical.
Where to get started and find out more
For anyone thinking of taking it on, the first step is deciding how to approach it. Some walkers do the challenge independently, while others join an organised group or charity event, which can make transport and timing easier to manage. Either way, preparation is essential. Route planning, fitness, weather conditions and the right kit all play an important part.
It is also worth remembering that this is a serious mountain challenge, not simply a long walk. Conditions can change quickly and tiredness becomes a major factor as the hours go on, so careful planning matters.
For more information, visit the official National Three Peaks Challenge website, where you can find route details, training advice and practical guidance.
Where to stay near the National Three Peaks
While the challenge is demanding, it also takes walkers through some of the most beautiful parts of the country. Whether you are looking for somewhere to stay before setting off, to break up the journey or to recover afterwards, there are plenty of good options along the way.
Near Ben Nevis
Inverlochy Castle, Fort William
For the Scottish leg of the challenge, this grand 19th-century castle hotel offers a luxurious base with Ben Nevis as its backdrop. Expect elegant rooms, beautiful grounds and a real sense of Highland character.
The Garrison, Fort William
A smart option in the centre of Fort William, The Garrison makes a practical yet stylish base for the start or end of the challenge. Its contemporary feel, comfortable rooms and convenient location make it well suited to walkers looking for somewhere easy and well placed.
Near Scafell Pike
Langdale Hotel & Spa
Set in one of the Lake District’s most beautiful valleys, this smart spa hotel is a comfortable base for the English leg of the challenge. After the ascent of Scafell Pike, its peaceful setting, stylish rooms and restorative feel make it especially appealing.
The Borrowdale Hotel
Set in the heart of Borrowdale, this country house hotel is surrounded by some of the Lake District’s best scenery. With its traditional feel, comfortable rooms and easy access to the fells, it makes an attractive base for those looking to combine the challenge of Scafell Pike with a classic Lakeland stay.
Glaramara Hotel
Also in Borrowdale, Glaramara has a dramatic setting with fell views and easy access to some of the area’s best walking country. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a good fit for the Scafell Pike leg of the route.
Near Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon)
Plas Dinas Country House, near Caernarfon
Elegant and quietly luxurious, this country house hotel makes a lovely base for the Welsh leg of the challenge. With its warm hospitality and peaceful setting, it is well placed for Llanberis and the routes up Yr Wyddfa.
Ty Afon - River House
This smart riverside stay offers a more intimate and well-placed base for Yr Wyddfa. Peaceful and well appointed, it works well for walkers wanting somewhere comfortable to return to after a demanding final ascent.
