Forget roses and overpriced set menus – this Valentine’s Day, Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) is asking one simple question: who would you race the length of the UK with?
Race Across the UK (RATUK) returns from 6–9 October 2026, challenging teams of two to travel from RNAS Culdrose in Cornwall to Inverness – with no cars, no planes and no map apps. Armed with nothing but a paper map, determination and whatever they can carry on their backs, duos must rely on teamwork, resilience and a healthy sense of humour to make it to the finish line.
And with registration now open, there’s no better time to choose your ultimate teammate.
Whether it’s your other half, your best mate, your sibling or a favourite colleague, Race Across the UK is all about partnership.
Just ask Natalie and Kris Lewis – better known as Team Lewis – a husband-and-wife duo based in Helensburgh, who took on the challenge together last year, racing from Edinburgh to Dartmouth.
“I signed up and dragged Kris along for the ride,” laughs Natalie. “It was about doing things for a good cause whilst having a good time, and just being Kris and Natalie.”
The couple, Royal Navy veterans and lifelong supporters of the Naval community, say taking part was one of the most rewarding experiences they’ve shared.
“Do it, 100%,” says Kris. “It was one of the best experiences I’ve had in a long, long time. Just don’t take it too seriously. There is that competitive element, but you can also just enjoy the ride.”
While the challenge tests both physical endurance and mental resilience, the heart of the race is fundraising. Teams are encouraged to raise £3,000, helping RNRMC continue its vital work supporting Royal Navy, Royal Marines and Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel and their families.
“We’ve seen first-hand the difference RNRMC makes,” says Natalie. “From the first day of service to life beyond the military, RNRMC is there, providing support that’s both meaningful and lasting. Their work strengthens the Naval family, and we’re proud to play even a small part in helping them continue that mission.”
The couple have witnessed the charity’s impact across the community – from mess deck improvements that make deployments feel more like home, to morale-boosting events and funded wellbeing activities giving families the chance to reset and reconnect.
Now, they’re encouraging other couples and friends to take the leap together.
So this Valentine’s Day, skip the clichés. Choose adventure. Choose teamwork. Choose someone you trust to navigate Britain with nothing but a paper map and blind optimism.
Registration for Race Across the UK 2026 is now open.
Spaces are limited – sign up your team of two and start your journey today: https://fundraising.rnrmc.org.uk/event/race-across-the-uk/home
