We’re excited to have the pros from Alexander’s Adventures with us! Their qualified guides will be lead the way for the whole day to ensure everyone stays on track.

We’ve made sure you’re well looked after! Your fee includes:

• Professional Guiding: Expert leads for the full duration of the walk.

• Catering: A provided lunch and plenty of hot drinks to keep you fueled.

• Event Goodie Bag: A celebratory pack to take home with you.

Everything you need to know—including kit lists and start times—can be found on our dedicated challenge page.

While we recommend that you are comfortable walking the total distance, please keep in mind that this isn’t a “fast-paced” race. It is a fantastic opportunity to reach a personal milestone while soaking in the beauty of our wonderful coastline. If you have a sensible baseline of fitness and enjoy being outdoors, this challenge is for you!

Yes. The walk is led by Alexander Adventures, and your lead walker is fully trained in first aid and will carry a medical kit for the duration of the event.

We also have several designated checkpoints along the route. Should you sustain an injury or feel unable to continue, our team will be on hand at these points to help you safely exit the walk and arrange any further assistance you might need. Your safety is our top priority.

You are still more than welcome to join us on the day. Because you have paid an entry fee, your place on the walk is secure regardless of your final fundraising total.

However, please keep in mind that as a charity, we rely on these events to fund our vital work in the local community. Your entry fee only covers the logistical costs of the event itself (like safety and snacks), so it is your sponsorship that truly makes a difference.

We simply ask that you aim to get as close to the £250 target as you can. If you are feeling a bit stuck or need some inspiration to help you reach that goal, please get in touch, we are here to help you

We will meet at 7:00 am at Cresswell for a sunrise start.

Our goal is to reach North Shields by 7:00 pm. We have planned the route at a leisurely, steady pace with plenty of stops so everyone can enjoy the coastal views.

The final leg of our journey begins at Tynemouth Priory, where we’ll catch the sunset over the ruins before making our way into North Shields to finish. Please keep in mind that as walking speeds vary by group, these timings are our best estimates to help you plan your day.

Our starting point is Cresswell, at the southern end of Druridge Bay.

To ensure we have the best possible start for the group size, the exact meeting point and parking details will be sent to all registered walkers via email closer to the event date. Keep an eye on your inbox for the final joining instructions.

Because coastal weather can be unpredictable, our lead walker, Joe, will provide a final, detailed kit list closer to the event date once we have a clearer forecast.

In the meantime, here are the essentials to keep in mind:

• Footwear: Both walking boots and trainers are perfectly fine, the most important thing is that they are already well worn-in. We don’t recommend wearing brand-new shoes for a 12-hour walk!
• Clothing: Plan for layers. A moisture-wicking base layer, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof jacket are key for staying comfortable as the temperature changes throughout the day.
• The Final List: Keep an eye on your inbox in the weeks leading up to the challenge for Joe’s full technical kit guide.

We’ve got you covered! Our goal is to keep you fueled and motivated from sunrise to sunset.

• Lunch: The Alexander Adventures van will meet us at Blyth South Beach with a hot meal, typically something hearty like a big pot of chilli.
• Regular Refueling: We also provide refreshments at regular intervals along the route. While the menu isn’t finalized, you can usually expect hot coffee, tea, and energy-boosting snacks like chocolate brownies.
• Dietary Needs: We will collect all allergy and dietary information from walkers closer to the event date to ensure there is something for everyone.

Pro Tip: While we provide these stops, we still recommend carrying a reusable water bottle and a few of your own favorite small snacks (like trail mix or fruit) to nibble on between checkpoints.

No, transport is not provided. Because this is a linear walk starting at Cresswell and finishing in North Shields, it is important to plan your travel in advance as the two points are approximately 20 miles apart.

We recommend one of the following options:

• The Two-Car Strategy: If you are walking with a friend, park one car at the finish in North Shields and drive together to the start at Cresswell.
• Drop-off/Pick-up: Arrange for a friend or family member to drop you off at the sunrise start and meet you at the finish line for a well-deserved lift home.

Yes. The Coastal Challenge is professionally led by Alexander Adventures, who hold full public liability insurance for the duration of the walk. The YMCA is also fully insured for all participants while they are using our building or facilities at the end of the event.

Depending on your question, there are two teams ready to help:

• For Kit, Food, or On-the-Day Logistics: Please contact our event partners, Alexander Adventures. You can find full technical details and a direct chat function with our lead guide, Joe, on the Coastal Challenge Event Page. They will also be reaching out with more specifics as the walk gets closer.

For Fundraising or Charity Information: If you have questions about your sponsorship, the impact of your donations, or the YMCA itself, please email us at events@ymcanorthtyneside.org. We’ll be sending out regular check-ins and advice to help you hit your targets!