The Lake District

Established as an official World Heritage Site in 2017, the Lake District is the largest and most visited National Park in England attracting over 16 million visitors each year.

Boasting spectacular scenery with an abundance of rugged fells, deep valleys, lakes and mountains it's easy to see why runners are the fastest growing group of visitors to the area.

No matter which area of the Lake District you decide to explore beautiful surroundings will be guaranteed. From the picturesque lakes of Buttermere and Crummock, dramatic mountain scenery of the River Esk or tackling the heights of Scafell Pike, England's tallest mountain, the choice is endless and will have you wanting to return to the wonderful area time and time again.

Tour Highlights...

Experience the spectacular scenery of the famous Lakeland Fells and vast, glittering expanses of water, the sixteen individual lakes which make this region so unique.

The beauty of the Lake District has long attracted poets and literary figures to its mesmerising shores, why not follow in the footsteps of William Wordsworth or Beatrix Potter during your stay with visits to their Lakeland residences.

Spend time in the delightful Cumbria towns of Keswick and Ambleside. Sample the famous Sticky Toffee Pudding in Cartmel and a fine Lakeland ale at the end of a satisfying running day.

Our favourite routes...

Routes are for guidance only and will be tailored to suit your exact running requirements

Buttermere Haystacks

Distance - 8 miles/13 kilometres. Max Elevation - 2175 ft/663 metres.
Terrain - Mixed. Bring your Trail Trainers, Hydration Pack and light waterproof
Highlights - Circular route offering amazing views of Buttermere Lake and ascent of Wainwright's favourite fell, Haystacks

Derwent Water

Distance - 12 miles/19 kilometres. Max Elevation - 1370 ft/418 metres.
Terrain - Mixed. Bring your Trail Trainers, Hydration Pack and light waterproof
Circular route offering stunning views of Derwent Water, magnificent views from the foot of popular fell, Cat Bells, and post-run refreshment in the picturesque town of Keswick

Loughrigg Fell

Distance - 8 miles/13 kilometres. Max Elevation - 1800 ft/549 metres.
Terrain - Mixed. Bring your Trail Trainers, Hydration Pack and light waterproof
Highlights - Superb run around and including the ascent of Loughrigg Fell with magnificent views across the southern half of the Lake District including Lake Grasmere, Rydal Water and the Langdale Pikes

Jo's Top Tips

The Lake District offers fantastic variety when it comes to terrain and viewpoints, with Lake Buttermere being my particular favourite. Make sure you fuel up on local treats, Kendal Mint Cake and Sticky Toffee Pudding, during your stay, you'll be sure to burn it off! You can also be assured of a warm and friendly welcome to this stunning area and as a fellow north-westerner hailing from this beautiful region, we are proud to show off the beauty and hospitality on offer.

Places To Stay

Whether you want budget friendly or a little more luxury we can find the right accommodation for you.

Budget Friendly, please note options are for guidance only...

YHA Buttermere, Cumbria

Former Victorian Slate Hotel
Set in an unrivalled position overlooking the lake and surrounded by mountains
Comfortable rooms with en suite facilities
Facilities include restaurant, licensed bar, on site parking, Free Wifi
landpods (upgraded for 2019) and bring your own tent options also available at this site

YHA Borrowdale, Keswick

Large lakeland hotel full of character
Great location on the doorstep of Scafell Pike, Great Gable and Castle Crag
Private rooms
Facilities include restaurant, licensed bar, on site parking, games room, Free Wifi
Heated camping pods and bring your own tent options also available at this site

Premium, please note options are for guidance only...

Waterhead Hotel, Ambleside

Boutique hotel set in the picturesque village of Ambleside
Stunning location overlooking Lake Waterhead
Luxury rooms with en suite facilities
Facilities include bar and grill restaurant, on site parking, free Wifi, 24hr reception
Free use of health club at Low Wood Bay
Spa packages available

Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa, Keswick

armathwaite-hall-country-house-and-spa-l

4 star hotel and spa set on the waters of Bassenthwaite Lake
Luxury rooms with en suite facilities, Hairdryer, TV, Tea and Coffee Making facilities, Robe and Slippers
Facilities include lake view restaurant, courtyard bar and brasserie, cocktail bar, free parking, Wifi
Luxurious spa facility with an extensive range of treatments (extra charges apply)
Estate activitites including archery, clay pigeon shooting, wild swimming, paddle boarding and more (extra charges apply

Sample Itinerary

Itinerary is for guidance only and will be tailored to suit your exact requirements

Friday

Arrival from 4pm - Welcome Drink, Check in, Unpack
6km circular run in the vicinity of Keswick. Suggested run to the Castlerigg Stone Circle from the Youth Hostel or in the Bassenthwaite Lake vicinity if hotel option selected
Evening meal at the hotel or in Keswick

Saturday

Breakfast at your accommodation

Depart from your accommodation for the Derwent Water 18km Circular with late lunch in Keswick on the return
Afternoon at leisure - why not try Paddle Boarding on Derwentwater or visit The Lakes Distillery to sample the local tipple!
Optional Yoga session at the hostel or spa time at the hotel
Evening meal and time to socialise at the relaxed Thyme Bistro in Keswick serving delicious hearty dishes

Sunday

Breakfast at your accommodation

15km circular run from Keswick to Whinlatter Forest and return
Return to hotel for check out and goodbyes