The Princess of Wales has finished the National Three Peaks Challenge, scaling Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England and Snowdon, also known by its Welsh name Yr Wyddfa, in less than 24 hours. Reported on 29 June 2026 after the weekend expedition, it was presented as a campaign to raise awareness of life after cancer and support The Royal Marsden in London, where she received treatment.
The route spans approximately 23 miles (37 kilometres) and involves more than 10,000 feet (about 3,048 metres) of cumulative ascent, plus travel between the mountains. Catherine completed the climbs herself, with mountain-rescue teams supporting the expedition. After the final ascent in Wales, Prince William welcomed her alongside their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, and members of her family, including her parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, and her brother, James.
The challenge draws attention to physical endurance and the experience of living beyond a cancer diagnosis. The Royal Marsden’s charitable foundation supports care that addresses patients’ medical, emotional and psychological needs. Catherine’s connection to the hospital reaches beyond her own treatment: she and Prince William became joint patrons, with a stated focus on cancer research and clinical excellence, as well as the wellbeing of patients and families.
Catherine disclosed her diagnosis in March 2024, after undergoing abdominal surgery earlier that year. She completed chemotherapy in September 2024 and announced on 14 January 2025 that she was in remission. “It is a relief to now be in remission and I remain focussed on recovery,” she wrote in a health update at the time. Her participation in the challenge brings her cancer-care advocacy into public view as she continues returning to her duties.
The Three Peaks Challenge combines three mountain climbs in a single 24-hour endurance test. Climbing, distance and travel between the mountains make it a large physical undertaking. By linking the expedition to The Royal Marsden and awareness of life after cancer, Catherine’s challenge also points to the need for support that continues beyond medical treatment.
