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Malcolm Whales Foundation Celebrates 18th Dorset Walk and Continued Support for the South West Coast Path

The Malcolm Whales Foundation (TMWF) has once again taken to the South West Coast Path, completing its 18th Dorset Walk in July 2026 (in the midst of a heatwave!) and raising funds for the Foundation's charitable work, alongside supporting a range of good causes, including the South West Coast Path Association.
The annual challenge has become a much-loved tradition, bringing together participants to tackle the spectacular stretch of coastline between Weymouth and Studland. Over the years, hundreds of walkers have experienced the beauty, challenge and inspiration of the Dorset coast while helping to raise funds for worthy causes.
This year's event marks another milestone in a long-standing relationship with the South West Coast Path. Remarkably, TMWF participants have now walked the Weymouth to Studland route 17 times. The only exception came during the Covid-19 pandemic, when restrictions led to a virtual event in which supporters walked wherever they were across the country. Despite the challenges of the time, that event alone raised an incredible £30,000.

The Foundation has been making donations to the South West Coast Path Association for nine consecutive years, beginning in 2018 and including the Covid year. Following this year's contribution, total donations to the charity have now exceeded £3,000.
Looking ahead, TMWF is already preparing for another landmark occasion. In 2028, the Foundation will celebrate its 20th Dorset Walk, a testament to two decades of fundraising, friendship and unforgettable coastal adventures.
Reflecting on the relationship between the Foundation and the Coast Path, TMWF said:
"Walking the South West Coast Path has delivered so much to so many people. For us, the Dorset stretch offers some of the finest walking anywhere in the country. It brings both pleasure in its beauty and pain in its climbs, but the spectacular scenery and the challenge are what make it so special.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who helps care for this remarkable coastline. Thank you to those who lend us their piece of the coast, and to the staff and volunteers who maintain the Path year after year."

Over nearly two decades of walks, participants have witnessed first-hand how the coastline continues to evolve.
"Over the past 18 years the route has changed considerably as the sea continues to reshape this dynamic coastline. We have enormous appreciation for the volunteers and the South West Coast Path Association, whose hard work enables hundreds of children and families to enjoy such an incredible experience year after year."
TMWF's support of the SWCPA through the Coast Path Friendly scheme is an important expression of gratitude.

"The Malcolm Whales Foundation has gained so much from Dorset and the South West Coast Path over the years. Our donations are simply a small token of appreciation for a place that has given so much to so many."
As the Foundation looks towards its 20th Dorset Walk in 2028, its enduring support demonstrates how Coast Path-friendly events can help protect, celebrate and sustain one of Britain's most treasured walking routes for future generations.
Read more about TMWF Dorset Walk 2026 HERE
Find out more about our Coast Path Friendly programme for event organisers HERE
Published on: Aug. 17, 2026


