All the reasons why you should go on The Great York Walk 2025

The Great York Walk 2025 is a fundraising event for Mentally Fit York taking place on May 17th.

The 25 mile walk will take you around York, and is open to both students and non-students.

Now I know the first thing that you’re thinking – why on Earth would I want to do that? Luckily for you, I have provided all of the answers.

Image: Alex Holland

1. You love a good walk

Now, if like me you’re an old man at the grand age of 21, then really this should just be an excuse to go for a long walk. Look at some trees, invite your friends, and feel at peace. I shouldn’t need to sell it to you. But if you’re not already convinced, I have some more reasons.

The Great York Walk 2025 will take you on a route that goes all around the city of York. Starting in Greg’s Place on Campus West, it will go along the River Ouse, over to York St. John’s Sports Park, then winding back to Campus East. If you’re a student here who still needs to see all of York, why not do it in a singular 25 mile stint?

Still not convinced? Maybe, like me, you want to exercise more and think the idea of going to the gym sounds dreadful. Then you should start going on regular walks. By the time May comes around, you’ll be an expert walker.

Image: Alex Holland

2. You have multiple options

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Don’t worry if the idea of 25 miles, which is the same as a whole marathon, sounds like too much. There are other options – you can also do a 6.25 mile walk or a 12.5 mile walk.

Personally, I’ve signed myself up for the 12.5 mile walk, since I’m scared my limbs would give out by the end of 25 miles, but I’m intending on doing the full route next year. All of the routes start together in Greg’s Place, and everyone involved will do the first 6.25 miles together.

That being said, don’t be afraid to do the 25 miles if you think you’re up to it. This is supposed to be a challenge, which you will be doing to fundraise.

Image: Alex Holland

3. You want to fundraise for Mentally Fit York

The Great York Walk isn’t just a big walk for no reason, it’s a fundraising event for Mentally Fit York. This is the University of York’s fund that focusses on mental health. The fund contributes to initiatives such as Menfulness, scholarships for Mental Health Nursing students, and services such as Togetherall, who provide anonymous mental health support.

Depending on your chosen route length, your fundraising target will be either £250 for the full length route, or £150 for the others. There is also an entry fee, being £15 for University of York students, £5 for under 18’s and £25 for others, as well as a booking fee. If you hit this target, you will be able to refund your entry fee.

This is a great opportunity to do some fundraising, and all you’ll be doing is going on a stroll – a really long stroll, but a stroll nonetheless.

Image: Alex Holland

That’s all there is to it. To get involved, or to find out more, you can visit here.

Feature image via Alex Holland