Kate, Princess of Wales, scales Britain's three highest peaks in 24 hours for cancer charity
Catherine, Princess of Wales, has climbed Scafell Pike, Ben Nevis and Snowdon in a single weekend to raise funds for the hospital that treated her cancer and to speak about the holistic needs of those living with the disease.
A physical challenge with a personal message
Catherine, Princess of Wales, completed the National Three Peaks Challenge this weekend, scaling the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales within 24 hours. The endurance feat raised money for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, which supports the west London hospital where she underwent chemotherapy after a cancer diagnosis in early 2024.
I have taken on the National Three Peaks Challenge, not simply as a physical endeavour but as a chance to explore life beyond diagnosis and to give something back.
The princess began the challenge on Saturday evening and was greeted at the finish in Wales by the Prince of Wales, their three children, and her parents and brother.
Life after a cancer diagnosis
Catherine revealed in March 2024 that she was receiving cancer treatment following major abdominal surgery, and in early 2025 she announced she was in remission. On Sunday she described how the illness changes every aspect of a person's life, not just the body.
Cancer doesn't just affect the body. It changes how you think and feel and profoundly affects every aspect of life. I know this personally.
She said her own experience showed that recovery requires more than medicine alone and called for greater attention to holistic care.
Holistic care and the Royal Marsden
Through the challenge she wanted to raise awareness of the "deeper impact of serious illness" and the importance of whole-person care that addresses psychological, emotional and social challenges alongside clinical treatment. The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity created a dedicated fundraising page, saying the funds would help more people benefit from holistic support.
Together, we can stand alongside everyone navigating life with cancer, ensuring no one faces this disease feeling unseen or unsupported.
The Three Peaks route
The princess trekked 23 miles with a total ascent of more than 10,000 feet, covering a driving distance of 462 miles between the three peaks. She climbed Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England, and Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) in Wales. A photograph posted on social media showed her smiling at the summit of Ben Nevis in wet-weather gear, with mountain rescue teams supporting her route.
