The Princess of Wales has completed the Three Peaks challenge to raise money for a cancer charity, becoming the first member of the royal family to achieve the feat.
Catherine Middleton, 44, revealed in a message on social media she had successfully taken on the trek not only as a physical endeavour but “to give something back” and raise awareness of the wider impact of serious illness.
She climbed the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon – within 24 hours this weekend after starting on Saturday evening.
Catherine was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer early in 2024, for which she underwent chemotherapy, and announced she was in remission in January 2025.
She carried out the challenge solo, supported en route by Mountain Rescue, and was greeted at the end by the Prince of Wales and her children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, along with her parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, and brother, James Middleton.
Kensington Palace said they believed the expedition was a royal first, the princess being the first member of the royal family to complete the challenge.
The princess, who was pictured smiling at the summit of Ben Nevis on Saturday evening, wrote: “I have taken on the National Three Peaks Challenge, not simply as a physical endeavour but as a chance to explore life beyond diagnosis and to give something back.
“The Royal Marsden is a place that holds great meaning for me and whose care and expertise are life changing for so many people.
“Through this challenge, I want to raise awareness for the deeper impact of serious illness and the importance of holistic healthcare.”
Sharing her experience of cancer, Catherine spoke of how she personally understood the illness can affect every aspect of someone’s life.
The princess added: “Every year, hundreds of thousands of people in this country hear the words no one wants to hear.
“What follows is a path that tests every part of who we are: physically, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. The challenges ripple outwards, touching families, friendships, work and the quiet moments we spend alone with our thoughts.
“Cancer doesn’t just affect the body. It changes how you think and feel and profoundly affects every aspect of life. I know this personally.
Catherine trekked for 23 miles, with a total ascent of more than 10,000 feet, and a driving distance of 462 miles between locations.
She was treated for cancer at the Royal Marsden hospital in Chelsea, west London. The Royal Marsden cancer charity has launched a specially designed fundraising page for people across the nation to donate at royalmarsden.org/princessofwales.
Money raised will be used to help more people with cancer benefit from holistic care.
The princess wrote on X: “In the end, bravery isn’t just about pushing forward.
“It is about knowing how to stay grounded, connected and present, no matter the terrain, or landscape you are walking through.
“Together, we can stand alongside everyone navigating life with cancer, ensuring no one faces this disease feeling unseen or unsupported.
“Please know you are not alone.”
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.theguardian.com ’
