A brand new outdoor activity is coming to Bath in October – the Bath Marches. The challenge is organised by Breathing Space, the team behind the popular Bike Bath event which sadly had to be cancelled earlier this year due to the coronavirus lockdown. 

The Bath Marches will take place on Saturday 3rd October. The event is open to locals and visitors alike, and all age groups are welcome to take part. The organisers hope the Marches will encourage more people to take up walking and spending time outdoors, as well as promoting Bath’s beautiful countryside and raising money for charity at the same time. 

What are the Bath Marches?

The Marches will consist of two challenge walks of either 9 or 15 miles, with each route starting and finishing in the centre of Bath. The routes will be carefully planned by the Breathing Space team to include plenty of challenging terrain, as well as easier sections for less experienced walkers. 

Although the Marches will follow established footpaths, the routes will be transformed with display boards showcasing local natural and even military history. There will also be optional ‘Team Challenges’ at checkpoints, if you’d like to take on an extra challenge with friends and family.

There will be food and drink available on the day, and all participants crossing the finishing line will receive their own ‘Marcher’s Medal’ to take home. 

Explaining where the idea for the Bath Marches came from, Breathing Space’s Richard Best told the Bath Echo:

“As a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, many people across the country have been spending more time being active outside – with walking and cycling more popular than ever.

“The Marches will be a great event for those looking for an incentive to maintain their (or their family’s) active lifestyles and take part in a new challenge in the South West.

“Our Bike Bath event, which was sadly cancelled this year, has seen over 12,000 cyclists join us in the city over the years, so we know the appeal of mass participation events.”

Fundraising for local and national charities

The Bath Marches will raise funds for a number of charities, including the Royal Navy and Royal Marine Charity, the RAF Benevolent Fund and the Soldier’s Charity among others. 

The event also has the backing of numerous local sponsors, including Wild, Swim, Bike, Run, Bath Recreation and a number of Bath-based businesses. 

How to get involved

If you’d like to take part in the Bath Marches, you’ll need to head to the website to register. Entry costs £25 per adult (over 18 years old) and £15 for children, with all funds going towards the event’s supported charities. 

If you’ve got your place on the Bath Marches booked, make sure you have somewhere central to stay. At Bath Holiday Rentals, we have a fabulous selection of city centre apartments and houses to choose from – so you can find the perfect basecamp for your walking adventure.