The ultimate mini adventure bucketlist

Looking for a new challenge? These mini adventures will skyrocket you up the next level, and require a little more drive, time and adventure spirit than the average microadventure. Forget the planes, these are all still on home soil and still 100% realistic and achievable for real people with real jobs. See you at the finish line?

 

#1 Take on the Welsh 3000s

There are 15 peaks begging to be conquered in Wales that rise above 3000 feet, and doesn’t a challenge like that make you want to claim that elevated title? Although some super-humans scale every summit in 24 hours, we recommend a three day stretch giving you a chance to take it all in.

What to bring: Travel light so that you can travel fast, with a bivvy, sleeping bag a little food and a map topping up your survival bag.

Where to do it: Most start by climbing Snowdon in the early morning light and then getting their teeth into the other peaks.

 

#2 Make the journey from Land’s End to John O’Groats

Here it is, the daddy of all British challenges, at about 874 miles.  The truth is, there is no one official route and the time taken varies wildly between adventurers. But that’s the attraction of this caper, it’s a helter-skelter dash from two points via anything you find fascinating, so that you can truly make Britain your own.

What to bring: You’ll need a backpack with water bottle, compass, sewing kit and waterproof clothes. If you’re camping the route, take a look at exactly what to bring with you on our camping checklist.

Where to do it: The world is made up of two different kinds of people, those who start at Land's End and those who head south from John O'Groats. It comes to the same thing in the end. Whether you defeat LEJOG or JOGLE there are a wealth of free route planners online.

 

#3 Complete the Rutland Round

This pint size county offers a 65 mile challenge to beat its entire perimeter. Delve into local history, charming countryside and come away with an entire county under your belt- you'll be able to brag for weeks!

What to bring: A water bottle and boots that will take you far.

Where to do it: Most start the walk beside Oakham which sits on the county border and from there the choice is yours.
 

#4 Get to know the Peak District from below by caving

You’ve seen the Peaks in the sunshine, but there’s a whole subterranean wonder to be explored beneath their surface. Home to enticing names such as The Whirlpool Passage, the Peak District is ready to put your caving and potholing skills to the test until you’ve explored all of its flickering caverns.

What to bring: Rent supplies such as a helmet and harness from a professional caving society.

Where to do it: Tour the Castleton Caves including Giant’s Hole, Peak Cavern and the Speedwell Cavern plus the Eldon and Gautries Holes.

 

#5 Visit all of Wales’ islands

Sheltered from the coast of Wales are a host of gems that the average tourist ignores. What secrets are they keeping out to sea? There are 21 to choose from, and sailing between them could form an epic route. Think of yourself as the modern Magellan of Wales’ coastline.

What to bring: Navigation that works via satellite and money to rent or book a ticket on a small boat.

Where to do it: Start from the largest- Anglesey, and challenge yourself to at least lay feast your eyes upon, if not land on, Church Island, Cribinau, East Mouse, Holy Island, Middle Mouse, North Stack, Puffin Island, Salt Island, The Skerries, South Stack, West Mouse, Bardsey Island, Caldey Island, Cardigan Island, Denny Island, Flat Holm, Grassholm, Ramsey Island, Skokholm, Skomer Island and finally Sully Island.

 

#6 Relive history at Hadrian’s Wall

This 70 mile run takes you through the footsteps of Britain’s Roman past. All those views should fuel you across the length of England- and be sure to watch out for Northern invaders.

What to bring: Travel light for this punishing run, there are hostels along the way where you can sleep and the route takes you close to urban areas where you can grab a meal.

Where to do it: Carlisle to Newcastle, here we come!
 

#7 Circumnavigate the Isle of Wight

Fancy encircling an entire small island of your own? OK, it might not be the largest isle, but it’s still a minimum of 3 days on foot, and could be more if you indulge in a few pit stops. If you’re drawn to the idea of circling the mainland like a champion, try this microcosm first to test the waters (and your stamina).

What to bring: Stout walking gear and camping supplies.

Where to do it: You could start anywhere, and go in either direction. If you’re taking a ferry from the mainland, start from where you dock which is likely to be either Cowes or Yarmouth.

 

#8 Wild camp and backpack across Scotland on The Great Outdoors Challenge

This ultimate endurance feat is all about reaching the remotest parts of Scotland, those that wheels can’t hope to cross. Navigate your own route over glens and valleys in search of that elusive Scottish Coast.

What to bring: This is a backpacking event and challengers often mingle between campsites and wild camping (entirely legal across Scotland) in the remotest areas. Pack for wild camping and consider it a luxury if you have a comfy campsite on which to pitch a tent.

Where to do it: There’s a never-ending list of popular starting points such as Dornie, Kilchoan and Oban.  Finish anywhere along the immense coast that skirts Aberdeen, and reap the rewards.

 

#9 Hone your muscles on the Devizes Westminster International Canoe Race

This ultra challenge draws in the curious with promises of a triumphant finish outside Westminster. It’s been going strong for 60 years and is a jawdropping test of strength and determination.

What to bring: Long term training is required and you’ll need to be self-sufficient in your canoe for entire stretches of the route. Join a local canoeing club and cheer each other all the way to the finish line.

Where to do it: Say ‘bon voyage’ on the Kennet and Avon Canal and paddle your way to glory at the Houses of Parliament.
 

#10 Run through the night in a breathtaking relay

The Ragnar is your opportunity to connect with other adventurers and join something momentous. Teams will push their limits in road running and trail runs and will participate in a kind of overnight festival of joyful madness. You’ve gotta be in it to win it!

What to bring: The relay uses a vehicle that follows members who are not currently running, so there’s the chance to pack plenty. You’ll need professional running outfits, safety gear and a supply of long lasting food.

Where to do it: Routes in the UK will be provided to teams before the race starts.

 

#11 Lay claim to the Three Peaks Challenge

There’s a few versions to choose from, between the Welsh take on the challenge and Yorkshire’s own triple peak opportunity. If in doubt, opt for the national Three Peaks which has an option in each nation: Snowdon (Wales), Scaffell Pike (England) and Ben Nevis (Scotland).

What to bring: Strong walking boots, a head torch and waterproof clothes. You’ll also need an overnight bag, water bottle and food that lasts.

Where to do it: Ben Nevis is the most common starting point, followed by Snowdon.

 

#12 Tick off 12 in 12

It’s a simple enough concept, a calendar of special events to match the passing of the year. If you manage to mix and match, your way through the challenges in 12, the glory is yours.  You’ll be an official 12 in 12 veteran. Hint: this list can get you there right away.

What to bring: Resilience and a calendar!

Where to do it: Across the UK. 
 

#13 Ramble the Pennine Way

Perhaps the UK's most famous walking challenge this is 18 miles of heaven that takes in Edale, Kinder Scout and stones with names like Ringing Roger and Manwoman's Stones. This'll be a day to remember!

What to bring: Day walking equipment and optional walking poles.

Where to do it: Keen adventurers should start with the climb up Edale 

 

#14 Dive to 10 ghostly shipwrecks in the Atlantic Ocean

Floating at the edge of the Bristol Channel, this island's nature reserve is speckled with 137 phantom shiprecks. The island was once a bit of a deathtrap for ships, pre 1900. Make a series of dives to reach the H.M.S Montague, The Robert and many more spirits of the naval past. There are over 40 dive sites in the area.

What to bring: Everything you need can be rented and boats leave regularly for the dive spots.

Where to do it: Lundy Island, Devon. 

 

#15 Dizzy yourself with the Ten Y Fan

Pen Y Fan is the highest mountain in South Wales, but you might be thinking you can take it on. How about 10 different ascents in 24 hours?  This humdinger of a challenge will put all of your climbing skills to the test and reward you with breathtaking views across the Brecon Beacons.

What to bring: Climbing gear, waterproofs and a willingness to go all night.

Where to do it: At the foot of Pen Y Fan, Brecon, Powys.

 

#16 Riding or scooting the White Horse

Uffington's impressive White Horse, carved into the chalk of the land, forms part of 90 miles of rolling glory. The official challenge is to race its route, and along side 3 other white horses carved in the hillside, by bike and receive a medal for the lowest time. You could also use a scooter or elliptical bike along the same distance for a bit of humour. 

What to bring: Helmet, chosen vehicle and registration for the race. 

Where to do it: White Horse Hill, Oxfordshire. 

 

Find campsites with activities here.