Catherine, Princess of Wales, completes National Three Peaks Challenge
The solo challenge aimed to raise funds and awareness for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, the hospital where she received treatment for cancer.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, completed the National Three Peaks Challenge during the weekend of June 20-21, 2026, according to a statement from Kensington Palace.
The Challenge
The National Three Peaks Challenge requires participants to climb the highest mountains in Scotland, England, and Wales within 24 hours. Catherine climbed:
- Ben Nevis (1,345 meters / 4,411 feet)
- Scafell Pike (978 meters / 3,209 feet)
- Snowdon (1,085 meters / 3,560 feet)
The total ascent was 3,064 meters (10,052 feet), covering over 23 miles (37 kilometers). She undertook the challenge alone. Kensington Palace released a photo of Catherine during the climb and a video of her discussing the undertaking.
Background
- In March 2024, following major abdominal surgery, Catherine announced she had been diagnosed with cancer and was undergoing chemotherapy treatment.
- She announced she was in remission in January 2025 and subsequently resumed public duties.
- In 2025, Catherine and her husband, Prince William, were named joint patrons of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust.
Statements
In a video message, Catherine provided her reasons for undertaking the challenge. She stated:
"Lots of people have asked me why I’m doing this challenge. Partly it’s personal – I’m so grateful to be here, to be strong enough to walk these hills. But, more importantly, it’s to give something back and acknowledge all the incredible work going on up and down this country."
She added:
"I’ve met some incredible people, those people who are living with and beyond cancer. And I know personally how difficult that journey is, and I really wanted to use this opportunity as my way of contributing to all the wonderful work that’s going on."
Kensington Palace released a statement saying she hoped to "explore life beyond a diagnosis," as cancer "changes how you think and feel and profoundly affects every aspect of life." Catherine has also spoken about "holistic care" addressing mental, social, spiritual, and physical wellbeing.
Aftermath
Catherine was greeted after completing the challenge by her husband, Prince William; their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis; and her parents Michael and Carole Middleton and brother James Middleton.
A fundraising link for public donations to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity was released alongside her statement.