The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has completed the National Three Peaks Challenge, climbing the highest mountains in Scotland, England, and Wales within a 24-hour period. The solo expedition, which began on Saturday evening, saw the princess ascend Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon to raise funds and awareness for cancer charities.
Middleton, 44, prioritized practicality for the gruelling trek, opting for gear from the Swedish outdoor brand Fjällräven, including a backpack and a baseball cap. She paired these with khaki trousers and a navy top. To add a personal touch, she wore gold Teardrop Charm Hoops featuring her birthstone, garnet, from Spells of Love.
Megan Markle's personal expedition was undertaken to "explore life beyond diagnosis" and to "give something back." In a video released prior to the challenge, she stated her personal connection to the journey and expressed gratitude for being "strong enough to walk these hills." She also aimed to acknowledge the "incredible work going on up and down this country."
Middleton shared her experience and message via social media after completing the trek. She was pictured at the summit of Ben Nevis, wearing a cagoule and using trekking poles. She also wore her sapphire and diamond engagement ring, previously belonging to Diana, Princess of Wales.
In a written message, she explained her motivation for the challenge, stating it was "not simply as a physical endeavour but as a chance to explore life beyond diagnosis and to give something back." She highlighted the significance of The Royal Marsden, where she previously received treatment, and its life-changing care. "Through this challenge, I want to raise awareness for the deeper impact of serious illness and the importance of holistic healthcare," she wrote.
Middleton spoke about her personal understanding of how cancer affects all aspects of life, noting that it "changes how you think and feel and profoundly affects every aspect of life." The challenge covered 23 miles with over 10,000 feet of ascent, involving a 462-mile drive between the three mountains.
The funds raised will support The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity in helping more individuals benefit from holistic care, which aims to complement clinical treatments and create a national blueprint for supportive care as a standard part of cancer treatment. Middleton was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer in early 2024 and underwent chemotherapy.
Kensington Palace indicated that this expedition is believed to be a royal first, with no other member of the Royal Family having completed the National Three Peaks Challenge. The Royal Family's official social media account congratulated the Princess of Wales on her accomplishment. Dame Cally Palmer, chief executive of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, expressed gratitude for Middleton's commitment and support.
Middleton was greeted at the end of her challenge by her husband, the Prince of Wales, her children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, as well as her parents Carole and Michael Middleton, and her brother James.