Beat the Bounds, Patterdale

Beat The Bounds, Patterdale

Beat The Bounds, Patterdale is an event based on a 45-year-old local tradition in the Ullswater Valley. Participants follow the parish boundary of Patterdale through the high fells of Cumbria. This event serves as a fundraiser for the Patterdale Church of England School and St Patrick's Church. It attracts a mix of fell walkers and ultra runners who navigate through technical terrain.

The route covers several notable fells and landmarks including Raise, Helvellyn, Nethermost Pike, Dollywaggon Pike, Grisedale Tarn, Fairfield, Red Screes, Kirkstone Pass, High Street, Angle Tarn, and Place Fell. Navigation skills are required as the course follows the actual parish boundary shown on Ordnance Survey maps rather than sticking strictly to established trails.

There are four distance options available:

• Full Boundary: 28 miles with 10,200 feet of total ascent.
• 1st Half Event: 16 miles featuring 6,500 feet of ascent.
• 2nd Half Boundary: 14 miles with 3,500 feet of ascent starting from Kirkstone Pass.
• Minibeat Downhill: 6 miles (10 km) via Hartsop Hall, primarily descending.

All participants are issued a tracker for safety and to verify that they have reached specific strategic points along the boundary line. A checkpoint is located at Kirkstone Pass providing snacks, hydration, and hot drinks. The event uses a rolling start, allowing participants to begin within designated windows. Finishers receive soup and cake at the end of their journey. Cut-off times are enforced at Kirkstone Pass and Boredale Hause to ensure safety. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.