Step off the beaten track and explore one of the greatest wonders of the world with Julia’s House Children’s Hospice.
We're inviting adventure-seeking supporters to embark on an unforgettable challenge in 2026: a nine-day expedition to the hidden and remote sections of the Great Wall of China.
Julia’s House will be hosting open evenings on 21st and 22nd October – one in Wiltshire and one in Dorset – where you can discover all the details about the trek, meet the team, and have your questions answered. Visit the event pages on our website for more information and to register your interest.
Recently featured in the Race Across the World series, the Great Wall offers dramatic hiking terrain, wild beauty and a rich tapestry of history, like no other place on earth.
This exclusive charity trek gives participants the rare opportunity to climb ancient watchtowers, follow rugged mountain ridges and gaze across misty valleys little changed by time – all far from the main tourist crowds.
“Trekkers will see views they’ll never forget and make friendships that will last a lifetime – the team spirit on our treks is inspiring,” says Hannah Mountford, Julia’s House Fundraiser. “And with every step in China, our intrepid trekkers can feel a huge sense of collective achievement, knowing they’re helping to change lives for seriously ill children and their families here at home.”
Reflecting on her own experience, former overseas trekker Lucy Mander shared, “It was such an incredible experience, definitely one on my bucket list. And the fact that we were doing it for such a great cause – to raise money for Julia’s House – made it even more rewarding. I only knew one person before going on the trip, but the group became so close so quickly. We all spurred each other on, and the camaraderie was amazing, we all felt part of a team.”
Hannah adds, “Our ‘Trek the Great Wall’ challenge is such a unique experience, we do anticipate places will book up quickly. We’ll have the privilege of hiking some of the lesser-travelled sections of the wall, such as Simatai, known for its adventurous terrain, and the majestic Jinshanling section, one of the most well-preserved and photogenic stretches.”
Making magical moments with Julia's House
Julia's House provides specialist care for children with life-limiting and complex medical conditions, as well as vital support for their families. Our dedicated nurses and carers bring clinical expertise, fun, laughter and compassion to the children they support, while offering exhausted parents much-needed respite and the reassurance their child is in safe hands.
Each year, Julia’s House relies on fundraising and donations to raise the £5.1 million needed to fund our essential care, with only eight per cent of ongoing costs covered by Government funding.
Trek the Great Wall of China – Event Details
The Julia’s House ‘Trek the Great Wall of China’ challenge will take place from Saturday 19 September to Sunday 27 September 2026.
Alongside the five-day trek on the Great Wall, participants will enjoy a full day exploring Beijing, including the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. The trip package includes return flights, accommodation, transfers, meals and drinking water, a celebratory farewell dinner, a Julia’s House t-shirt and medal. In the lead-up to the event, supporters will have the chance to join free training walks in the Dorset and Wiltshire countryside, where they can meet their fellow trekkers. And for those keen to explore more of China, there’s the option to extend their stay and visit the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an.
For peace of mind, trekkers will also benefit from 24-hour emergency support, English-speaking guides and a dedicated support crew, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.
Register your place: Find out more and book your spot at the open evenings at www.juliashouse.org/event/trek-great-wall-china-2026
Open evenings will be held at: Julia’s House Children’s Hospice, Bath Road, Devizes on Tuesday 21 October at 18:30 or 19:30; Poole Yacht Club, New Harbour Road, Poole on Wednesday 22 October at 18:30 or 19:30.
