Hike to the Lights

Challenge yourself to Hike to the Lights; a 15-mile hike across Somerset and Wiltshire to raise vital funds for hospice care.

15 miles. 3 routes. 1 amazing adventure

Our 15-mile hikes are for those looking to take on a meaningful challenge while coming together to raise vital funds for end of life care in your local community.

Choose your hike route

Take on a memorable 15-mile journey through beautiful countryside, peaceful canals and stunning local landscapes. Choose your starting point from Devizes, Chippenham or Keynsham, set off at 10am, and make your way towards Dorothy House, where all routes come together.

Celebrate at Moments of Light

Cross the finish line and celebrate your achievement at Moments of Light, a breathtaking large-scale light installation by internationally renowned artist Bruce Munro. Wander among thousands of softly glowing lights and experience an unforgettable evening of wonder, connection and celebration.

Take time to relax, soak up the atmosphere and share the moment with fellow hikers, friends and family as you reflect on the incredible challenge you’ve completed and the difference your support will make for local people and families.

Entry is £12.00 and all participants get a FREE event t-shirt

Every single penny raised helps us to be there for other patients and their families who need us. So, sign up today and start your fundraising to show your support for hospice care.

Only 20% of the care Dorothy House provides is funded by the NHS

Demand for our services is growing every year, meaning more local people and families need our support than ever before.

By signing up to Hike to the Lights, you’re doing more than taking on an unforgettable challenge, you’re helping ensure that no one faces the end of life alone.

Every mile you walk and every pound you raise helps provide expert care, comfort and compassion when it matters most.

FAQs

Where do I sign up?

Simply click here to register and choose your preferred starting location: Devizes, Chippenham or Keynsham. Once you’ve signed up, we’ll send you everything you need to prepare for Hike to the Light.

Is there a registration fee?

Yes, registration costs £12 per person. Your entry fee helps cover the cost of running the event, while the money you raise through sponsorship will help Dorothy House provide compassionate end-of-life care for people and families in our local community.

Who can take part?

Everyone is welcome to take part. If you’re under 16, you’ll need a parent or guardian to register you or provide permission before the event.

What should I bring?

As Hike to the Light takes place in November, it’s important to be prepared for changing weather conditions. We recommend bringing:

Comfortable walking boots or sturdy footwear

Warm, layered clothing

A waterproof jacket

A hat and gloves if it’s cold

A fully charged mobile phone

A reusable water bottle and snacks

We’ll have support available along the route, but please make sure you’re prepared for the conditions on the day.

How much fundraising do I need to do?

We encourage every participant to aim to raise £500, which could make a meaningful difference to the care Dorothy House provides.

Every pound raised helps us continue supporting local people and their loved ones with expert hospice care. We’ll provide fundraising ideas, tips and resources to help you reach your goal.

Is the route supported?

Yes. Hike to the Light is a fully supported event, with marshals and refreshment stops along the route to help you along the way. Before the event, we’ll send you all the information you need, including route details, timings and what to expect on the day.

What happens at the finish?

All three routes finish at Dorothy House Hospice, where everyone will come together for our special Moments of Light celebration. It’s a chance to reflect, remember loved ones and celebrate the incredible difference your fundraising will make to local hospice care.

Can I fundraise offline?

Absolutely. If you prefer to collect donations offline, you can download a sponsorship form here.

Will I need to train for Hike to the Light?

We recommend doing some training before the event to help you feel prepared and enjoy your day. All routes are 15 miles and mainly flat, but regular walking practice will help you build confidence and stamina.

How long will it take to complete Hike to the Light?

Most participants will complete the 15-mile route in around 5–7 hours, including time for rest stops and lunch breaks.

We hope everyone will arrive back at Dorothy House by 5pm to enjoy hot dogs and join together for our Moments of Light celebration.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome to join you. Dogs must remain on a lead at all times and owners are responsible for their care throughout the event.

Can I run the route?

No. Hike to the Light is a walking event, and all event planning and support arrangements are based around a walking pace. We ask all participants to enjoy the route as a hike rather than a run.

Are refreshments provided?

Yes. There will be pit stops along the route where you can pick up snacks and drinks. We’ll also provide hot dogs at the finish, but we recommend bringing your own lunch and any additional snacks or drinks you may need during the day.

Is Hike to the Light suitable for wheelchair users or people with disabilities?

We want Hike to the Light to be as inclusive as possible and welcome people with a range of abilities. However, please be aware that some sections of the route are off-road, with uneven terrain, and there are some hills towards the end of the route which may make the challenge more difficult for some participants.

If you’re considering taking part and would like to discuss accessibility, please get in touch with our team before registering. We’ll be happy to talk through the route, discuss any support you may need and help you decide whether this event is right for you.

If Hike to the Light doesn’t feel like the right challenge, we’d still love to support you in making a difference. Our team can help you organise your own sponsored event or fundraising challenge that works for you.

What is Moments of Light?

At the end of Hike to the Light, participants will come together at Dorothy House to experience Moments of Light — a breathtaking large-scale light installation created by internationally renowned artist and Dorothy House Ambassador, Bruce Munro.

Transforming the Hospice grounds into a landscape of light, the installation features thousands of illuminated forms that glow gently within the surrounding nature. Designed as a place for reflection, connection and remembrance, it invites visitors to pause, take a moment and celebrate the lives of those who are special to them.

After completing your 15-mile challenge, this special celebration will be a chance to come together as a community, recognise the incredible difference your fundraising will make, and enjoy this unique artistic experience.