The Lakeland Way Ultra is the ultimate test of endurance for any athlete. Developed from the walking route, this 125-mile running version of the Lakeland Way is not only intended for the fittest and fastest, but also for those slower runners wishing to take on the challenge as a multi-day run holiday. Following old packhorse routes once used by early traders, this epic trail takes you through some of the finest of Lake District scenery as it weaves its way through picturesque valleys and over dramatic mountain passes. Either supported or unsupported, in one go or over multiple days, completing the Lakeland Way will be an extraordinary personal achievement, and will be an unforgettable experience for any trail runner.
Guidance
Start: Ravenglass Market Cross ///armrests.certainly.grounding
Finish: Ravenglass Station turntable ///throat.winners.entertainer
There are no need for witnesses on this challenge but please follow the route as closely as possible; providing a GPX file of your run and a brief report is sufficient evidence to add your details to the running report lists.
The winter period for this challenge is from 1st December to 28th/29th February, and the summer period from 1st March to 30th November.
Please do not attempt to cross the estuary via the railway bridge, it is closed to walkers.
Please respect the people that live and work in the valleys and the small communities by keeping support teams to a minimum to help reduce footfall and erosion.
Happy running!
GPX File
Please note that the GPX file provided is a route ‘plotted’ using the Ordnance Survey mapping software, and not an actual ‘recorded track’ from a device. This means that the mileage on the file, at little over 120 miles, is much lower than the actual mileage on foot, which in reality is more around 125 miles.
GPX route: Download
Crossing the River Esk
A mile or so from Ravenglass a low-tide window is required to be able to cross the River Esk at the Eskmeals Viaduct. This running version of the Lakeland Way has been developed from the walking version, however, it is in reverse (anti-clockwise) of the latter so that the river crossing is at the beginning of your challenge. This will help with logistics and generating fast times.
More information: Crossing the River Esk
Birkby Moor
More information: The Bog Monster of Birkby Moor
Running Report
If you complete the Lakeland Way Ultra and want your details added to the running report list, please send me a copy of your recorded track and a brief report of your run, including your full name, date, time, and the conditions during the event.
More information: Running Reports
Sarah Perry
On 18th December 2023, ultra runner and Inov-8 athlete, Sarah Perry, became the first person to complete the Lakeland Way Ultra, in a winter time of 41 hours and 25 minutes.
At 07:30 on Saturday, at the Ravenglass Market Cross, Sarah started the challenge and arrived back at the Ravenglass Station turntable at 00:55 on Monday. Sarah endured horrendous weather conditions during the 125 miles of rough Lakeland terrain, most of which was in complete darkness.
“Congratulations to Sarah Perry on becoming the first runner to complete the new 125-mile Lakeland Way. The epic trail loop – which includes 22,000ft of ascent – has been created with the purpose of immersing runners and hikers in the scenery, nature and history of the English Lake District. Ultra runner Sarah battled ferocious winds during much of her Lakeland Way completion, achieved in 41hrs 25mins. She was supported by friends throughout.”
inov-8 All Terrain Running
The photos taken of Sarah’s run were kindly provided by David Wood of Fellside Photography
