Lake District Ultra Challenge

Event overview

The Lake District Ultra Challenge takes place in the southern Lake District with basecamp in Kendal on 6-7 June 2026. The event offers a continuous ~100 km Kendal loop with a total climb of 2,500 m, and a two-day 100 km option split into two ~50 km stages (Kendal to Lakeside, then Lakeside to Kendal) with recorded climb values of ~1,300 m and ~1,200 m respectively. The route passes Garburn Pass, Ambleside and a halfway point by Lake Windermere, and uses signed markings and GPS tracking through an event app. The series provides marquee rest stops, medical and massage teams, timing scans at rest stops, shuttle transfers, parking and a basecamp with camping packages and hot showers.

Distances and route options

• 100 km - Full continuous Kendal loop, 2,500 m climb.
• 100 km (2-day) - Two 50 km stages with overnight camping or YMCA option.
• 50 km - Half challenge, Kendal to Lakeside, ~1,300 m climb.
• 50 km (second half) - Lakeside to Kendal, ~1,200 m climb.
• 42 km - Lakes Marathon, Kendal to Ambleside, ~1,200 m climb.
• 29 km - Quarter route, Kendal to Ambleside, ~900 m climb.
• 10 km - Ambleside loop, ~350 m climb.

Support and categories

Rest stops occur about every 12.5 km with food every 25 km; stops include hot drinks, water, energy drinks and facilities. Medical staff, podiatrists and masseurs are available at major stops and along the route. Entry categories include standard entries, the Ultra March® walking category, and the Trailblazerz® category for faster competitive runners. Registration options include self-funded, charity fundraising tiers and multi-event deals. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.