Lace up your trainers and get ready for Canalathon!

Run or walk 26.2 miles; do it over the month or all in one go, alone or in a team. Raise money to help us protect these special places. Receive free shoelaces when you get your first donation, then raise £100 and well send you a free running vest!

Almost nine million people live less than a mile from one of the Canal & River Trusts waterways, making them popular and accessible places to exercise. But the nation's ageing canals are under threat, with costly repairs required to keep them open for the communities who enjoy them and for the wildlife that depends on them.

By fundraising for us, you are helping us create more special spaces by water in our cities and towns. Together we can help nature flourish, protect the heritage of our canals in the face of climate change and deliver health, happiness and wellbeing to millions of people.

Paul Steele, ambassador for Canal & River Trust

The difference you will make

Canalathon is just as much about getting active outdoors and enjoying pure escapism by water as it is ticking off the miles. While you're doing something amazing for charity, you'll also be doing yourself a power of good.

£100 | Helps nature flourish

could help plant 18 apple, pear or plum trees which blossom for insects in spring and go on to produce fruit to feed birds, animals, and people in autumn

£200 | Protects our heritage

could help protect and ensure the long-term survival of our 200 year old heritage structures, which have become more vulnerable in the face of climate change

£300 | Makes cities greener

could help upgrade urban towpaths for walkers, runners and cyclists, providing greener ways to commute and exercise.