Wells Mendip Mental Health Hike returns for 2026

By Laura Linham 20th Apr 2026

Local News by Laura Linham 20th Apr 2026

The Mendip Mental Health Hike returns on 24 May with multiple walking routes across the Mendips to raise money for Wells charity Heads Up.

A popular charity walk across the Mendips is set to return next month, with organisers hoping for its biggest year yet.

The Mendip Mental Health Hike will take place on Sunday, 24 May, with participants setting off from Uphill near Weston-super-Mare at 7 am and aiming to finish in Wookey Hole at around 7.30 pm.

The event raises money for Heads Up, a Wells-based mental health charity.

It was first launched in 2024 by Chris Young, owner of Wolf Barbers in Broad Street, and Neil Winterson, who runs the Men Walking and Talking group in Wells.

That first hike saw 45 people complete the 30-mile route across the Mendips, raising £17,500 for the charity. Last year, 60 people took part and a similar total was raised.

Organisers say this year's event is designed to be accessible to more people, with six route options available. The shortest distance is around four miles, while the full route remains at 30 miles.

Walkers will be split into three groups — moderate, intermediate and experienced — and encouraged to go at their own pace. Start times are staggered so participants can finish together in Wookey Hole for an after-party.

The finish will again include live music, food and fundraising activities.

A number of local businesses are supporting the event, including Cheddar Natural Spring Water, Daniels Sandwich Bar, Wells Cathedral School, Luke Phillips Photography, Burns the Bread, HW Signs and John Tucker Carpentry.

People who cannot take part on the day can still support the fundraiser by donating online or signing up via the event page.

Organisers are encouraging as many people as possible to get involved or contribute, as the hike continues to grow as a community-led fundraiser for mental health support in the Wells area.