For most people, turning 35 might involve a quiet drink, a meal with friends, or perhaps a moment of reflection. But for Dan Harrison from Northamptonshire, it is something altogether more ambitious and considerably more uncomfortable.
On July 4, Dan and his cousin Connor Bedwell from Swansea will set out from St Bees in Cumbria, standing on the edge of the Irish Sea, to begin a 192-mile journey on foot across England. Their destination is Robin Hood's Bay on the North Sea, which they hope to reach 12 to 14 days later, ideally still able to walk as they step into their 35th year.
Dan said that Connor is not just his cousin; he is more like a brother. They are only a week apart in age, which means he will also be celebrating his 35th birthday somewhere along the route.
The duo will be following the Coast to Coast trail, a nationally recognised route that crosses three of England's most iconic landscapes: the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors. First devised in 1973 by Alfred Wainwright, the route has become one of the UK's most celebrated long-distance walks. Following a 5.5 million pound investment, it has recently been designated an official National Trail, making the challenge feel even more significant.
This is about far more than just a scenic walk. For nearly two weeks, Dan and Connor will be carrying everything they need on their backs, tackling rugged terrain, unpredictable British weather, and the less glamorous realities of long-distance hiking: blisters, sore legs, and the occasional moment of questioning their life choices. Nights will be spent in a tent, a decision Dan is still not entirely confident about, and days will involve climbs he will almost certainly regret as soon as they begin.
Somewhere along the way, they will also be celebrating their birthdays, most likely sitting on a hill, caught between 'this is incredible' and 'why did not we just go to the pub?'
There is also a serious reason behind the challenge. Dan is taking on the walk in support of Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), a charity working to prevent suicide and support mental health, particularly among men. The reality is stark: suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50 in the UK, and every two hours, a man loses his life. It is a difficult statistic to process, but one that highlights the importance of accessible support.
CALM provides that lifeline, offering helplines, guidance, and a safe space for people to talk when they are struggling. Just 12.20 pounds can fund a potentially life-saving call, meaning every donation, no matter the size, can make a genuine difference.
Connor, meanwhile, is supporting the Marine Conservation Society, a UK charity dedicated to protecting the ocean, defending vital habitats, and promoting cleaner, healthier seas through science-based solutions and community action.
They will be sharing their journey on Instagram (@danvscoast2coast), documenting both the highlights and the inevitable low points, from stunning landscapes to what will likely be a steady decline in morale as the miles add up.
This challenge will test them physically and mentally, but that is part of the point. It is not just about walking across England; it is about marking a milestone in a meaningful way. There will undoubtedly be moments when they will question why they signed up for this. But if it raises awareness, sparks conversations, or helps support their chosen charities, then it will be worth every step.
Because sometimes, the best way to mark a milestone is not by taking it easy, but by taking it on.
To support the challenge, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/team/connor-and-dan-vs-wainwright
