Join us on 29 June 2024 and help us celebrate Armed Forces Day 2024 in true military style with our unique (and award winning!) walking event: The 13 Bridges Challenge!

Anyone who’s walked this stunning 10-mile route through London before will tell you that there’s no other challenge quite like it; it’s a truly special event, bringing together people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities (and a few dogs) to show appreciation for our military community and all they do for us.

The best part is there are so many ways to get involved: take part with us in London or create your own challenge and participate virtually from wherever you are in the world!

Start times for the event are staggered every 6 minutes between 8am and 1pm - when you register for the event you will be able to choose a start time that works for you! If you would like to walk with friends or family please ensure you all book onto the same start time.

Registration Fee: £15 adult, children go free (Under 18)

Fundraising Target: £50

Ready to sign up?

Register today to secure your spot!

Want to know more? Read on below…

What Can I Expect on the Day?

If you’re joining us in person, you’ll set off from Trinity Square Gardens near Tower Hill. Upon arrival you’ll be greeted by the friendly SSAFA team to get you checked in and join your troop.

When you sign up, you get to choose how fast you want to take the course. You might be looking to see how fast you can do it, or perhaps prefer to take it at a more leisurely pace – the choice is yours. You’ll be put with a troop of others marching (or meandering) at a suitable pace for your abilities and preference.

This is a very communal event; you’ll be part of a group, so even if you sign-up on your own, you’re never alone at 13 Bridges Challenge.

And that’s it, you’re on your way!

You’ll then be guided by a military escort along a criss-crossing route covering 13 of London’s most iconic bridges. One of the best things about taking part in London, is you never know what you’re going to see. You might get the see the incredible site of Tower Bridge rising to let ships through; one year our walkers got to see scenes being filmed for a new action film! So, keep your eyes peeled!

And when you reach the finish line you’ll be greeted with a roaring cheer-squad celebrating your incredible achievement. Now you get to enjoy some food, entertainment, and the chance to learn more about our Armed Forces while taking a well-earned rest!

Watch our video from 13 Bridges 2023:

What is the 13 Bridges Virtual Challenge?

If you’re taking part virtually, then you get to take control and decide how you do it. In previous years people have plotted their own routes, finding 13 Bridges in their local area to cross as they go (don’t worry, we’re not fussy for what counts as a ‘bridge’!). Others just put on their walking kit and set out for a 10-mile wander, exploring as they go. Go it alone and enjoy some reflective solitude in nature or grab a group of friends and family to make it a walking party!

When you’re done, share your activity online and enjoy congratulations from our online cheer-squad celebrating your amazing achievement!

However you decide to take part, you’ll be fully supported by Team SSAFA, receive lots of fun SSAFA merch to show off, and have a great time all while supporting our Armed Forces community! Sign up today and be part of this amazing experience.

Still got questions? Contact our friendly team via email teamssafa@ssafa.org.uk or call 020 4566 7952 and they’ll be happy to help.