Each year, we ask for volunteers who want to try something new or push themselves a bit further out of their comfort zones. Ally, the Manager of the Black Jug, always takes the lead in organising something ‘outdoorsy’ — and ‘up-hilly’. This year’s challenge taking on Mount Snowdon was no exception.

As usual, we spread the details across all our pubs, inviting anyone and everyone to join. While we sometimes choose a common charity to support, in 2024, we left the decision to the participants. They could either raise money for a personal charity or simply take on the challenge to test their limits.

This year’s challenge, which we aptly named ‘Secret Snowdon,’ was particularly special because it took us into parts of Snowdon that are rarely explored. What’s more, it coincided with Mental Health Awareness Week, so the timing was perfect.

In total, 38 crew members from 17 different pubs embraced the ‘move more’ theme with enthusiasm. They hiked 28 miles of Snowdonia’s lesser-known paths, summiting 8 mountains along the way.

The day began at 3am, with head torches lighting the way. After 19 gruelling hours of trekking, the last hikers completed the route, again under torchlight.

To celebrate their remarkable achievement, they enjoyed beers and curry, lovingly prepared by Exec Chef Warren. Ultimately, the event was an incredible success, with the team raising over £4,500 for their chosen charities. We couldn’t be prouder of them all.

(Ally is already planning the next challenge!)

At Brunning & Price, we understand the many benefits of spending time outdoors and enjoying fresh air.

While our pubs are perfect for forming strong friendships, it’s refreshing to socialise away from the pub environment. That’s where Wellness Walks come in. These walks offer an opportunity for gentle exercise, meeting like-minded people from different parts of our business and relaxing with some light-hearted conversation.

To promote these Wellness Walks, we organise them regularly across the country. Everyone is welcome to join, and we strive to ensure that there are frequent opportunities to participate.

Alan from Rake Hall, who coordinates the walks in the Northern region, has introduced some flatter routes to make it easier for everyone to breathe, chat and walk simultaneously. In the southern region, we’ve added cycling options to the routes, courtesy of our enthusiastic cyclists benefiting from our ‘Cycle to Work’ scheme.

Each Wellness Walk always features a picnic (naturally). We plan each route so the walk ends near one of our pubs, allowing everyone to enjoy a refreshing drink afterwards. Also, pub dogs are warmly welcomed, making these walks a fun outing for all members of the family.

Wellness Walks are more than just a chance to get some exercise; they’re a great way to foster connections between colleagues, share ideas and unwind. By blending physical activity with social interaction, these walks contribute to our overall well-being and strengthen our sense of community.

To learn more about how we embrace health at work, head to our Health page over on the Brunning and Price website here.