RUNNING TRAILS IN THE LAKE DISTRICT
Open countryside, miles of trails and only yourself to answer to. Running in the Lake District is not your average Park Run and definitely worth the effort.
Running Ullswater
Three running trails starting at Another Place, recommended by our team at Another Place;
“Guests will need a good fitness level to attempt any trail runs, but not necessarily be an avid runner. The first two trails I’ve suggested can be a combination of running and walking.”
Before you go: Check The Lake District National Park Authority’s guides on what to bring and best sources for weather reports.
THREE TRAIL RUNNING ROUTES NEAR ULLSWATER
Another Place to Pooley Bridge – 5km
Hilly sections, especially around Maiden Castle.
Start on the yellow route from the hotel and then turn onto the Ullswater Way (orange). The first section is on the road leading to a public footpath with beautiful views. Last section to Pooley Bridge car park is on road.
Another Place ‘circular route’ – 5.5km
Road running with gradual incline.
Start on the yellow route and heads back on the green. You have to run on the A592 for a short period, the route is mainly quiet country road. At Bennethead it turns into public footpath for about 1.5 km, and then back onto road to Watermillock. It ends following the lake back to the hotel.
To Aira Force steamer jetty – 9km
A challenging run along the Ullswater Way.
Start on the yellow route and then turns to Ullswater Way (orange). It begins on the road and turns into a forest trail. It gets a bit more challenging around Gowbarrow Fell, the path is undulating and can be hazardous if wet and muddy. There are beautiful views and good bit of downhill running towards Aira Force. The last section to the jetty is on the road.
Running events in the Lake District
Lakeland Trails run a number of events at Ullswater and Helvellyn, visit their site to see if to coincide your stay with one.
Mountain Run (Glenridding) offer courses at their Sky, Trail and Ultra School, as well as bespoke training days.
Parkrun. The nearest 5km Parkruns are Penrith, and Whinlatter.
Although not an event, Grizedale forest also has some great running routes with sculptures hidden throughout the forest.
Equipment for running in the Lake District
A decent pair of running shoes, either full trail running with good grip or a hybrid shoe for off and on road (always wear them in before tacking longer routes).
Comfy leggings/tights, base and a mid-layer. A t-shirt with a long sleeve t-shirt over, to remove/add layers with changing temperatures.
Lightweight wind/shower-proof jacket.
Decent running socks!
Hat, buff and gloves if cold
A running backpack for longer runs, with a hydration pack and snacks.
Check The Lake District National Park Authority’s guides for a full list of what to bring and best sources for weather reports.