Brave participants will soon have the opportunity to scale one of London’s most iconic skyscrapers in the 10th annual Walkie-Talkie Tower Climb Challenge, scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026. The event challenges climbers to conquer 36 floors and 896 steps of the distinctive Fenchurch Building, commonly known as the Walkie-Talkie Tower due to its unique shape. The vertical challenge supports Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), raising crucial funds for seriously ill children. Participants can sprint, run, or walk the stairs at their own pace, with previous record times as quick as 5 minutes and 21 seconds. The event offers a truly physical challenge for all participants, regardless of fitness level. Upon completion, each climber will be awarded a commemorative medal recognizing their achievement and support of the charity.
Challenge yourself at London’s iconic Walkie-Talkie Tower with 36 floors and 896 steps to conquer for charity.
Registration costs between £25-£30, with early birds able to secure a discounted £15 entry using code NY50 before January 31. Each climber commits to raising a minimum of £250 for GOSH Charity, which automatically creates a fundraising page upon signup. The funds support GOSH’s new Children’s Cancer Centre, medical equipment, research initiatives, and family support services. These resources have become increasingly important following pandemic-related fundraising difficulties. Participants receive chip timing, a technical T-shirt, and a bespoke finisher’s medal. The event begins at 8:00 am sharp, with participants arriving in scheduled waves to manage crowd flow. Race packs containing numbers and timing chips arrive by mail after registration.
Upon reaching the Sky Garden at the top, climbers are rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of London and a celebratory drink. The descent is comfortably made via lift, not requiring another stair climb. For those seeking an even greater challenge, the “Climb The Capital” event on October 4, 2025, incorporates the Walkie-Talkie as the final building in a three-tower challenge. This expanded event includes climbs up the Cheesegrater and Scalpel buildings for a total vertical ascent of 475 meters, supporting Action Medical Research. The Walkie-Talkie Tower itself was designed by Rafael Viñoly and features 38 floors, including the three-story landscaped Sky Garden created by Gillespies, which offers a unique blend of parks and outdoor spaces in the heart of the city. The garden serves as a peaceful sanctuary and houses a contemporary rooftop restaurant with exceptional views of the city below.
