Walking the extra mile with Julian House

On Sunday 22 September, Julian House hosts its annual Circuit of Bath charity walk, not only a vital fundraiser for Julian House, but a much-loved fixture on the local calendar. The event takes walkers on a 22-mile scenic route around Bath, starting from checkpoints which are open from 07:30 – 18:30.

The circular route takes participants along the beautiful outskirts of Bath, on a diverse terrain of footpaths, canal paths, fields through to hills which provide walkers with stunning views from Little Solsbury Hill, Lansdown, and Millennium Viewpoint. Along the way, participants can discover the little-known snippets of local history. 

Image: Circuit of Bath Walk 

While Julian House encourages people to tackle the full route, participants can choose their own distance and start point, thanks to the five checkpoints along the route and a free shuttle service between each which allows for a shorter walk if preferred. The whole route is family and dog friendly, with part of the route suitable for prams making it the perfect family day out.

Image: Circuit of Bath Walk 

With checkpoints open from 07:30 – 18:30, it is a flexible arrival time with an advised early start for walkers who are planning to do the full 20 miles. Walkers will receive their route directions at the starting check point and as each section is completed the route map will be stamped by volunteers at the checkpoints so participants can prove their route to their sponsors. The route is fully signposted, due to a collaboration with Bathscape and Cotswolds National Landscape. Medals will be awarded to anyone who completes the 20-mile route.

Money raised by the event will support Julian House in their mission to assist vulnerable and at-risk individuals across the South-West, and to deliver life-changing and life-saving services to vulnerable people who need them for many years to come. Their services include valuable support to rough sleepers; people recovering from substance abuse; individuals escaping domestic violence; refugees striving to build a new life in a safer place.  

Image: Circuit of Bath Walk 

Over the last 22 years, the Circuit of Bath Walk has brought together thousands of individuals all willing to make a difference and walk that extra mile to help Julian House.  In 2023, over 500 participants took part raising over £50,000, and this year Julian House hopes to grow this number to encourage more people to get involved and walk this spectacular route.

“The Circuit of Bath Walk is an important event for everyone of all ages. Participants get an incredible sense of achievement from walking 20 miles over challenging terrain, but also the knowledge that the sponsorship they raise will help to rebuild lives. By taking part, you are enabling us to support at-risk people in our emergency hostel and domestic abuse refuge. You will literally be helping to save lives” - Gavin Osborn, Community and Events Fundraiser.

Image: Circuit of Bath Walk 

Tickets cost £15 for an adult and £8 for a child with a discount on family tickets. The participant’s entry fee goes towards the cost of organising the walk, every penny raised through sponsorship goes towards helping Julian House support vulnerable people across the South-West. For anyone interested in helping Julian House but unable to take part in the walk, donations are welcome on the website: https://www.julianhouse.org.uk/donate/