The Marlow Donkey
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Event overview
The Marlow Donkey is a Thames Valley LDWA challenge walk held on Sunday 12 October 2025, based at Liston Hall (Marlow Community Association), Marlow, Bucks (SL7 1DD, grid SU850867). The event offers two route options:
- 16 miles
- 25 miles
The aim is to complete the chosen route on foot within the specified maximum time periods (16-mile route: 8 hours; 25-mile route: 9.5 hours). The 2025 routes run through the Chiltern Hills and include a figure-of-eight centred on Lane End. Checkpoints are used and entrants must pass them in order; an 8-mile checkpoint with cut-off provisions is included in the route description. Drinks and snacks are provided at the start and at an outward checkpoint, and a simple meal (daal curry) is provided at the finish. The food cannot be guaranteed free from allergens.
Entry, kit and logistics
Entries are limited to 150 places; LDWA members have earlier access and entry fees are £10 for members and £15 for non-members. Entry is online only and there are no entries on the day or refunds for withdrawal. Mandatory requirements include carrying a mobile phone and supplying an emergency contact number different to the entrant’s own. Under-18s must have written consent and be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Entrants must carry specified kit including a personal drinking container, plastic mug, paper copy of the route description, whistle, basic first aid, suitable footwear, waterproofs, compass and the OS maps or equivalent GPS maps listed by the organisers. HQ has no showers or changing rooms; baggage may be left at the HQ at the owner’s risk and sleeping at the venue is not permitted. Car parking is available nearby in town car parks. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.