South Downs Hiking Trail 2026
Take on the South Downs Hiking Trail 2026
Experience the beauty of the South Downs National Park while taking on an unforgettable hiking challenge in support of people affected by brain tumours.
Starting at the stunning Goodwood Estate, the South Downs Hiking Trail takes you through rolling countryside with spectacular views towards the North Downs, Chichester Harbour and, on a clear day, the Isle of Wight.
Choose from three hiking distances and take part as an individual, with friends, family or colleagues. By hiking for #TeamBrainTumourSupport, every step you take and every pound you raise will help ensure no one faces a brain tumour diagnosis alone.
Book your placeKey event details
- Date: Saturday 7 November 2026
- Location: Goodwood Racecourse, Selhurstpark Road, Chichester, PO18 0PS
- Start time: 8.15 am
- Distances: 12 km, 16.5 km or 21.3 km
- Entry: Book your place directly with the event organiser
Choose your hiking challenge
Whether you’re taking on your first organised hike or looking for your next outdoor challenge, there are three distances to choose from.
12 km Hiking Trail
- Entry fee: £34.50
- Elevation gain: Approximately 199 metres
- Estimated walking time: 2 hours 24 minutes
- Difficulty: Level 2
16.5 km Hiking Trail
- Entry fee: £39.50
- Elevation gain: Approximately 309 metres
- Estimated walking time: 3 hours 18 minutes
- Difficulty: Level 3
21.3 km Half Marathon Hiking Trail
- Entry fee: £44.50
- Elevation gain: Approximately 328 metres
- Estimated walking time: 4 hours 16 minutes
- Difficulty: Level 3
Entry fees and event information are provided by the organiser and may be subject to change. Please check the official booking page before registering.
Choose your distance and bookJoin Team Brain Tumour Support
Once you have booked your place, we’d love you to join Team Brain Tumour Support and use your hiking challenge to raise vital funds for individuals and families affected by brain tumours.
You can take part on your own, walk alongside friends and family or bring together a team from your workplace or community.
Tell us you’re taking partWhat you’ll receive from the event organiser
Your event entry is expected to include:
- A hiking bib number
- A clearly marked route
- Encouraging event marshals
- Water stations
- First-aid support
- Chip timing
- A finisher’s medal
- Finisher goodies
- A personalised certificate
What we’ll do for you
- Personal fundraising support: Friendly advice and guidance to help you reach your target.
- Fundraising resources: Access to posters, social graphics and practical materials to help promote your challenge.
- Team BTS support: Encouragement from our fundraising team throughout your journey.
- A supportive community: Connect with other people fundraising for Brain Tumour Support.
Why your fundraising matters
Your fundraising will help people feel less alone and better supported at every stage of a brain tumour diagnosis.
Funds raised through #TeamBrainTumourSupport help provide:
- Specialist counselling
- Telephone and online support
- Peer support groups
- Information and guidance for families, carers and friends
Preparing for your hike
Essential kit
The event organiser recommends that every participant bring:
- A mobile phone
- A reusable cup or water bottle
- Food and drink suitable for the distance being walked
- A waterproof rain jacket
- Suitable walking shoes or boots
- Appropriate clothing for the weather conditions
Save the event contact number, 02033 717 156, on your phone before setting off.
Collecting your bib number
You will collect your hiking bib number from the registration area when you arrive. Bring your booking QR code with you and display your bib clearly on the front of your clothing during the hike.
The event is plastic-free, so remember to bring a reusable cup or bottle for use at the water stations.
Finding your way
The hiking routes will be marked using pink arrows and pink tape. Hazards and road junctions will also be marked with caution signs, so please take extra care at these points.
Event-day timings
- 7.30 am: Venue and car park open
- 8.15 am: All hiking distances begin
- 2 pm: Hike finish and course cutoff
- 2.30 pm: Event centre closes
Please note that event timings may be adjusted by the organiser for operational or logistical reasons.
Dogs and spectators
Walking with a dog
The organiser permits one dog per participant. Dogs must be kept under appropriate control throughout the event.
If you are bringing a dog, remember to bring:
- An appropriate lead
- Water
- Treats or food
- Waste bags
Please check the organiser’s full dog and canicross guidance before booking.
Spectators
Friends and family are welcome to support participants and help create a fantastic atmosphere on the day.
Fundraising hub and resources
Our dedicated Fundraising Hub is full of tips, inspiration and practical advice to help you make the most of your hiking challenge.
You’ll also find our fundraising materials, including posters, leaflets and social media graphics to help you spread the word and boost your sponsorship.
Join our fundraising Facebook group
Connect with a supportive community of BTS fundraisers by joining our Fundraising Facebook group. Share your progress, exchange tips and be inspired by others taking on challenges for Brain Tumour Support.
Set up your JustGiving page
A JustGiving page is one of the easiest ways to collect donations. Add your story, photos and training updates, then share your page through social media, email and WhatsApp.
We’re here to help
Thank you for considering taking on the South Downs Hiking Trail for Brain Tumour Support. If you have any questions about fundraising or joining Team BTS, our friendly team is here to help.
01454 414 355 (Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm)
Ask a question about the South Downs hikeYou can also share this page with friends, family or colleagues who may be interested in taking part.