Leaden Boot Challenge

Leaden Boot Challenge

The Leaden Boot Challenge is a long-distance event centred on the White Peak village of Alstonefield. The route is an elliptical, single-loop course of 26.2 mile with about 4,800 feet of ascent and descent, starting and finishing at Alstonefield Village Hall. The event follows LDWA guidelines and is open to both walkers and runners; the minimum age for entry is 14 and an entry fee applies.

The route is served by six manned checkpoints and two unmanned checkpoints, spaced at roughly four mile intervals. Each manned checkpoint provides water, squash, snacks and first aid, and mobile communications link checkpoints with the Memorial Hall for additional support. Participants who retire from the course are transported back to the start. Hot breakfast rolls are available at the start and locally made hot food and cakes are provided at the finish as part of the entry arrangements. Finishers receive certificates and cloth badges.

The event was created to raise funds for local projects and has donated funds to community causes. Grant awards are generally in the range of £200 to £2,000. Organisers have stated that dogs are not permitted to accompany participants from 2024 onwards.

The route passes Milldale, Baley Hill, Nabs Dale, Ilam Rock, Aires Cottage, Bunster Hill, Ilam Hall, Musden Woods, Slade House Farm, Throwley Hall, Grindon, Wetton Mill, Ecton Hill, Hulme End, Sheen, Pilsbury, Hartington, Beresford Dale and Narrow Dale before returning to Alstonefield. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.