A determined group of Lancashire-based hikers is preparing to traverse the county's most demanding terrain to generate crucial funds for a vital local youth charity. The team, comprised of employees from English Lakes Hotels Resorts and Venues, will undertake a specially designed and exceptionally challenging 'Lancashire Five Peaks' route on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
A Gruelling 20-Mile Challenge
This arduous 20-mile hike features more than 2,800 metres of cumulative climbing, pushing participants to their physical limits. The route will see the group conquer the summits of several renowned Lancashire fells. These include the 627-metre high Gragareth, located on the border with Yorkshire, and Ward's Stone, which stands as the highest hill within the Forest of Bowland.
The challenge also encompasses ascents of White Hill and Wolfhole Crag, alongside the formidable Pendle Hill near Clitheroe. The day's hiking is strategically divided into three distinct segments: an initial 2.4-mile section, followed by a six-mile stretch, and culminating in a substantial 11.4-mile trek to complete the journey.
Supporting a Critical Cause
All funds raised by the English Lakes Hotels hiking team will be directly allocated to support a youth suicide prevention project operated by BEE Adventures. This organisation is a not-for-profit community interest company dedicated to assisting disadvantaged children and vulnerable teenagers by providing them with opportunities to participate in guided outdoor adventures.
The group has set an ambitious fundraising target, aiming to raise a minimum of £1,500 for the project, with hopes of significantly exceeding this amount. The hiking team currently consists of 13 employees from Lancaster House Hotel, the Wild Boar Estate, and Low Wood Bay Resort and Spa.
Symbolism and Awareness
Faye McGuinness, HR manager at Lancaster House Hotel, provided insight into the hike's profound symbolism. "Each of the five Lancashire peaks we will climb represents a young life," she explained. "The statistics reveal the heartbreaking reality that five young people in the UK tragically lose their lives to suicide each day. Our objective is to illuminate this difficult truth and make a tangible impact to help forge brighter futures for those who are at risk."
McGuinness further emphasised the uniqueness and difficulty of the endeavour. "To the best of our knowledge, our Lancashire five peak challenge is truly unique and has never been attempted before. It is an immensely demanding physical challenge, and rigorous training in the coming weeks will be absolutely essential for every participant. We are actively recruiting additional team members to join us for this challenge, to maximise fundraising efforts and amplify awareness for this crucial cause."
Enhancing Vital Youth Services
Ryan Bond, co-founder of BEE Adventures, elaborated on how the funding will be utilised. "The funding will be instrumental in enhancing our young people's suicide prevention programme in the Lancaster and Morecambe areas, which specifically targets individuals aged 14 to 25," Bond stated. "This programme equips young people with essential tools to manage life's stresses and helps them build resilience, primarily by harnessing the therapeutic power of the outdoors to improve mental health and wellbeing."
This charity hike represents a powerful fusion of physical endurance and community spirit, aiming to make a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable young people across Lancashire.
