Hundreds of participants are expected to take to the streets of Bath in their pyjamas for this year’s Midnight Walk, a key fundraising event supporting Dorothy House Hospice Care. The event returns on Saturday, July 5, inviting walkers aged 12 and over to join this unique night-time challenge.
The evening begins at 9pm at the Bath Pavilion, featuring entertainment, refreshments, and an energizing warm-up led by Cheryl Sprinkler from Mojo Moves. Walkers then embark on one of two routes under the moonlight: a 10K walk starting at 10:30pm or a shorter 5K beginning at 10:45pm, allowing participants to enjoy the scenic city sights in bedtime attire.
This year’s theme encourages all walkers to wear pyjamas, onesies, or dressing gowns, with the option to find nightwear at Dorothy House’s charity shops. More than just a fun night out, the Midnight Walk plays a crucial role in raising funds for Dorothy House’s Hospice at Home service. These dedicated carers provide essential end-of-life care to patients in Bath, North East Somerset, and surrounding parts of Wiltshire and Somerset.
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The rising costs of running the hospice—from £46,000 to £52,000 daily over the past three years—highlight the importance of the event, as government funding remains limited. Each participant is asked to raise a minimum of £50, which can cover two hours of overnight care by one of the hospice’s compassionate professionals. These carers offer more than medical support: they bring dignity, comfort, and emotional relief to patients and their families during life’s most difficult moments.
This year’s walk also shines a light on the nation’s 5.8 million unpaid carers, over 59% of whom are women, recognizing their crucial and often unseen contribution. The event stands in solidarity with these carers, many of whom work alongside Dorothy House staff.
Among the walkers is Amanda Appleyard, participating in memory of her husband Rob, who received exceptional care from Dorothy House before his passing in 2024. Amanda shared, “Dorothy House gave me the last few weeks back to be Rob’s wife. The care we received was outstanding, from the nurses to the volunteers and gardeners—everyone made it a truly special place.”
Entry to the Midnight Walk costs £22, and participants can register online via the Dorothy House website.