Lake District Mighty Hike
Follow the spectacular Ullswater Way in the heart of the Lake District. Explore England’s largest National Park as you hike along lakeside paths and take in the stunning views from the top of Gowbarrow Fell.
Full Marathon
Fundraising pledge: £250
Half Marathon
Fundraising pledge: £250
What's included in your registration fee?
About the Lake District Mighty Hike
The Lake District Mighty Hike is your chance to explore the beauty of the Lake District, England’s largest National Park! Starting in Penrith, you’ll take in breathtaking views as you hike towards the top of Gowbarrow Fell and around Ullswater.
Hike solo and meet friends along the way or sign up with a team of friends and family for a memorable day together.
"Had a fantastic day even if it was a tad wet. Great help from all the volunteers around the hike." Julie, Lake District 2025
Mighty Hikes support
We have many resources to help you prepare for your hike, including how to set up your fundraising page. You can also join our Facebook group and meet the Mighty Hikers community.
Frequently asked questions
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When and where does the Lake District Mighty Hike start and finish?
The full and half marathons will start at Dalemain Mansion and Gardens, CA11 0HB.
The half marathon finishes at Jenkins Field, CA11 0PB. The full marathon finishes at Dalemain Mansion and Gardens, CA11 0HB.
The full marathon waves will start every 20 minutes from 06:30, and the half marathon waves will start every 20 minutes from 08:50. -
What is the Lake District Mighty Hike route?
The Lake District Mighty Hike starts at Dalemain Mansion where you will then walk straight down to Ullswater before circling the lake anti-clockwise. If you are doing the half marathon, you will finish in Glenridding, and if you are doing the full marathon you will finish back at Dalemain Mansion.
View the routes on Google Maps.
You can also view the GPS routes with elevation graphs here for the full marathon and here for the half marathon.
Please note that the routes can be subject to change following health and safety inspections. Any key changes will be communicated on the day. -
What are the route highlights for the Lake District Mighty Hike?
Along this stunning route, you'll experience:
1. The iconic Ullswater Lake – England's second-largest lake, renowned for its breathtaking beauty.
2. Aira Force Waterfall – hear the roar of water cascading over a dramatic 65-foot drop!
3. The charming village of Pooley Bridge – a quintessential English village brimming with cosy coffee shops and lake views. -
Where should I stay for the Lake District Mighty Hike?
Dalemain Mansion is helpfully located just off the A66 and close to the historic market town of Penrith, so we recommend staying here for a short journey to the start line.
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How do I get there?
We recommend having access to a vehicle or bike to get to this event. Dalemain Mansion is located on the A592, just off the A66 and close to the M6 which makes it really easy to access.
Parking for the full marathon and half marathon is at Dalemain Mansion and Gardens, CA11 0HB.
Free shuttle buses will run from the half marathon finish in Glenridding to the car park in the afternoon.
You can book parking and shuttle buses when you register. -
What if my Mighty Hike gets cancelled?If your Mighty Hike is cancelled for any reason, you’ll be contacted by email and text and live updates will be made to this FAQ document with all the information you need.
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Is the Lake District Mighty Hike accessible?
We aim to make our Mighty Hikes as inclusive as possible and will do our best to support participants with health conditions or disabilities.
However, please note that our routes are not wheelchair accessible.
If you have any questions about accessibility or specific needs that could help make the hike more comfortable for you, we encourage you to get in touch with us at mightyhikes@macmillan.org.uk.
Ready to join?
Potential training routes in and around the Lake District
Volunteering at a Mighty Hike
Don’t fancy hiking?
Become a Mighty Hike volunteer instead!
From helping with registration to handing out medals and bubbly at the finish line, there’s a role for everyone. It’s the perfect opportunity to try something new, meet like-minded people and explore beautiful corners of the UK.
Every hour you give makes a Mighty difference.
See other Mighty Hikes
Don’t fancy this one? No sweat! We’ve got many other beautiful Mighty Hikes in all corners of the UK, hilly and flat, so you can find the perfect challenge for you.