Challenge Events & Fundraising Opportunities.
Looking for an unforgettable way to challenge yourself, have fun, and support young people across the UK? UK Youth offers a dynamic range of events throughout the year that blend adventure, community, and purpose, giving you the chance to make a real difference.
From exciting challenge events like the TCS London Marathon, charity walks, and cycling races to inspiring art exhibitions, talks with special guests, and glamorous gala dinners, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re pushing your physical limits or attending a meaningful gathering, every event helps support our mission to create a brighter future for young people.
Birmingham Running Festival
When: 11th January 2026
Where: Birmingham
Distance: 5K, 10K or half-marathon
Registration Fee: £28
Fundraising Target: £200
| Event takes place in Sutton Park in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham. Runners will have the option to choose between 5K, 10k or a half-marathon. |
Sign Up for the 5k
Sign Up for the 10k
Sign Up for the half marathon
Chase the Moon Battersea 5K &10K
When: 25th February 2026
Where: Battersea, London
Distance: 5k or 10K
Registration Fee: £30, £130 for Groups of 6
Fundraising Target: £100 for a 5K, £150 for a 10K
Battersea Park is one of London’s most scenic and well-maintained parks, known for its greenery. Featuring a completely flat route, the 10K course starts and finishes at the park’s Bandstand, following a looped circuit around the park. The layout provides excellent visibility and easy access for spectators throughout the event.
Sign up for the 5k
Sign up for the 10k
Run4Rome Relay
When: 23rd March 2026
Where: Rome
Distance: Marathon-relay
Registration Fee: £49 (refundable upon completion)
Fundraising Target: £1,400 between 4
A team of four and split the course and the fundraising target (that’s £350 each!) so you each run a quarter of the distance, with designated hand offs across the route. The course offers an unmatched route through history culminating at the world-famous Colosseum and including famous sights including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Spanish Steps and the Piazza Navona.
Jurassic Coast Ultra Challenge
When: 11th April 2026
Where: Huntingdon, St Albans, Derby
Distance: 5k obstacle course
Registration Fee: £37
Fundraising Target: £200
The ultimate 5k obstacle course. You’ll be jumping, sliding and laughing all the way to the finish line. Children are more than welcome to take part, as long as accompanied by an adult.
London to Paris 3 Day Cycle
When: 14th May 2026
Where: London – Paris
Distance: 60+ miles a day over 3 days
Registration Fee: £1,135
Fundraising Target: £2,000
This highly sought-out cycle challenge goes through the English and French countryside and is suitable for cyclists of all abilities.You’ll begin your journey in Crystal Palace, covering a total of 196 miles, and finish your incredible cycling adventure at the iconic Eiffel Tower.
- A fully supported group riding experience
- 60+ miles a day over 3 days
- Experienced to beginner cyclists catered for
- Support vehicles, mechanical and medical support
- Accommodation included
- 3* hotels and all meals included
Yorkshire 3 Peaks
When: TBC
Where: Yorkshire Dales
Distance: 24 miles (38.6km) including 1585m (5200ft) of ascent.
Registration Fee: £80 if pre-organised. Around £120 if bespoke
Fundraising Target: £350
The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is 24-mile (38.6km) round-trip route, and includes 1585m (5200ft) of ascent.
The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge takes on the peaks of Pen-y-Ghent (694 metres), Whernside (736 metres) and Ingleborough (723 metres), usually in this order, and in under 12 hours. These hills form part of the Pennine range, and encircle the head of the valley of the River Ribble, in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Option to do as part of a pre existing group or bespoke option which is slightly more expensive
Jubilee Bridge 10k
When: 2nd June 2026
Where: Manchester
Distance: 10k
Registration Fee: £28
Fundraising Target: £200
The Jubilee Bridge 10k is a closed road road race which will start and finish on the Silver Jubilee Bridge. This Grade II listed bridge runs between Widnes and Runcorn and goes over the River Mersey and Manchester Ship Canal.
Midlands Tough Mudder 5/15K
When: 4th July 2026
Where: Lincolnshire
Distance: 5k + obstacles / 15k + obstacles
Registration Fee: £70 – £95
Fundraising Target: £300
Event takes place in Belvoir Castle, Grantham, Lincolnshire. Catering to all abilities, you can choose between 5k, 12+ obstacles, or 15k, 20+ obstacles.
London Summer Walk
Date: 22nd August 2026
Location: London
Distance Options: 10k, 25k or marathon walking challenge
Registration Fee: £139
Fundraising Target: £400
A Marathon, 25km, or 10km Walking Challenge, taking in some of London’s most historic areas and sights in the eastern section of the River Thames. A great way to get active and explore new parts of London – and to celebrate the end of summer with a BBQ and bar at the finish.
Sign upEmma’s Fundraising Story
Emma, a 29-year-old psychologist from Australia, ran the 2024 London Marathon to support UK Youth, a cause close to her heart. With six years of experience in youth mental health, Emma believes in providing all young people with the opportunity to reach their full potential.
“I wanted to fundraise for UK Youth because their work truly resonates with me. Everyone deserves access to support, and UK Youth makes that possible for young people across the UK,” Emma said after completing the marathon in 4 hours and 35 seconds.
Emma’s first marathon was a personal challenge, but her motivation to raise over £2,000 for UK Youth kept her focused. “It was such a privilege to run for a cause that helps young people thrive,” she shared.
Her experience shows that fundraising for UK Youth isn’t just about completing a physical challenge—it’s about making a real difference in the lives of young people.
Join Emma and others in supporting UK Youth through fundraising. Together, we can help more young people achieve their full potential.
GivenGain
GivenGain is our recommended fundraising platform. As a non-profit and foundation, they ensure that more of your donation goes directly to where it’s needed most. You can find your event or start your fundraiser through our official GivenGain account here and don’t miss out on exciting prize incentives along the way!
Why run for UK Youth?
“I chose to run for UK Youth to pay homage to my youth worker. 2 years ago, I was struggling a lot with my mental health and weight, so she recommended that I took up running as a scapegoat. Running for UK Youth meant I was able to channel my gratitude and appreciation for her. Training was very difficult—more of a mental challenge than a physical one. But in times like that, you need to remember your why. UK Youth was my why, and that always encouraged me to get up in the morning and run.”
Billy Nunn, UK Youth Runner
London Marathon 2025
What you will get for being a part of Team UK Youth.
A comprehensive welcome pack
Your welcome pack will be filled with expert tips, insights and strategies you need to confidently tackle your training and fundraising journey.
Team UK Youth branded vest and more
A personalised Team UK Youth-branded running vest with your name proudly displayed. You’ll also receive branded fundraising materials such as T-shirts, collection tins, balloons, and leaflets to boost your fundraising efforts.
Virtual events
Monthly virtual events featuring expert guest speakers covering topics essential topics like training, fundraising, mental health, and more.
Communication from the team!
Regular newsletters to keep you informed, motivated, and connected throughout your journey. You’ll also have access to a private WhatsApp group with your fellow #TeamUKYouth runners as a space to share advice, find support, ask questions, and get to know like-minded people running for the same cause.
UK Youth cheer squad
On-the-day support from our UK Youth cheer squad, who will be there to cheer you on every step of the way!
Runners goodie bag
A special goodie bag at the finish line to thank you for your incredible effort and commitment.
Applications are now closed.
