Lake District Ultra Challenge

Kendal, United Kingdom • 6-7 Jun 2026

Lake District Ultra Challenge

The Lake District Ultra Challenge is a trail event in the southern Lake District that starts and finishes at a basecamp in Kendal. Participants can choose to walk, jog, or run across several available distances. The primary route is a 100 km loop that includes elevations such as the Garburn Pass and passes through historic Ambleside and Lakeside at Windermere. The course crosses forests and nature reserves, featuring approximately 2,500 meters of total climb for the full distance.

The event offers varied distance options and categories to cater to different goals:

  • 100 km full challenge (continuous or over two days)
  • 50 km half challenge
  • 42 km Lakes marathon
  • 29 km quarter challenge
  • 10 km Ambleside loop

Participants receive comprehensive support throughout the journey, including a fully signed route with glow-sticks for night navigation and GPS tracking via a dedicated app. Covered rest stops are located approximately every 12.5 km, providing water, snacks, and hot meals. Medical teams, podiatrists, and massage services are available at these stations.

Additional facilities include optional camping packages or hostel accommodation at the halfway point and the Kendal basecamp. Shuttle buses operate between the nearest train station and the event site, and parking is available for supporters. Finishers receive a medal, a T-shirt, and a glass of fizz upon completion of their chosen distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

UTMB 20K UTMB 50K UTMB 100K
100 km
Full Continuous ~100km
100 km
Full 2 Day 'daylight' ~100km
50 km
2nd 1/2 Challenge ~50km
50 km
1st 1/2 Challenge ~50km
Marathon
Lakes Marathon ~42km
29 km
1st 1/4 Challenge ~29km
10 km
The Ambleside 10 ~10km
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Join experienced guides for a 22 mile reconnaissance of the Lakes in A Day route from Ambleside to Cartmel. Gain expert advice on gear, navigation, and race strategy while exploring the trails with a small group of participants.

Experience a 20 kilometre circular trail race around the shores of Buttermere and Crummock Water. This fully marked route features technical lakeshore trails and woodland tracks set against a dramatic fell landscape.

Prepare for the Montane Lakeland 100 with this 33 mile supported recce from Buttermere to Dalemain. The route features coach transport and medical support for confirmed race entrants.

The Arant Haw fell race in March 2026 is a 7.5 km challenge with 400 m of climb. The event features senior and junior races, starting from Sedbergh. It requires mandatory kit for seniors and concludes with a Winter League presentation.