Lake District Mighty Hike
Take on the magnificent Ullswater Way with a community of Mighty Hikers by your side. Follow peaceful lakeside trails, tackle the climb up Gowbarrow Fell together and soak up incredible views across the Lake District – the perfect reward for every step.
Full Marathon
Lake District Mighty Hike route maps
The Lake District Mighty Hike starts at Dalemain Mansion (flag with green background) 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.
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.
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.
“Perfect day today. Thanks to everyone involved with organising and running this amazing event. And thanks for the atmosphere from the amazing Mighty Hikers!” Glen, Lake District 2026
Frequently asked questions
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When and where does the Lake District Mighty Hike start and finish?
Your Mighty Hike starts at Dalemain Mansion and Gardens, CA11 0HB, where you’ll join your fellow hikers and get ready to take those first steps together.
Taking on the half marathon? Your finish line is at Jenkins Field, CA11 0PB.
Going the full distance? You’ll make your way back to Dalemain Mansion and Gardens, CA11 0HB to cross the finish line.
Full marathon: Waves every 20 minutes from 06:30
Half marathon: Waves every 20 minutes from 08:50
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What is the Lake District Mighty Hike route?
Starting at Dalemain Mansion, you’ll make your way down to Ullswater before following the lake anti-clockwise through the heart of the Lake District.
Half marathon: Dalemain Mansion to Glenridding
Full marathon: Dalemain Mansion, around Ullswater and back to Dalemain Mansion
Sometimes we may need to make changes to the route to keep everyone safe. If anything changes, we’ll make sure you know. -
What are the route highlights for the Lake District Mighty Hike?
Get ready for some unforgettable Lake District moments along the way:
- Ullswater – Hike with one of England’s most spectacular lakes beside you, surrounded by mountains and views that make you stop and take it all in
- Aira Force – Hear it before you see it, as the roar of the waterfall gets closer before plunging 65 feet through the woodland
- Pooley Bridge – Make your way into this lively lakeside village, with that brilliant feeling of knowing just how far you’ve come together
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Where should I stay for the Lake District Mighty Hike?
We recommend staying in or around Penrith, just a short journey from Dalemain Mansion — giving you less travelling and a little more time before you join your fellow hikers at the start.
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How do I get there?
We recommend travelling by car or bike for this Mighty Hike. Dalemain Mansion is on the A592, just off the A66 and close to the M6.
Parking
Half and full marathon hikers can park at Dalemain Mansion and Gardens, CA11 0HB.
Taking on the half marathon?
After you cross the finish line in Glenridding, a free shuttle bus will take you back to the car park at Dalemain Mansion.
Book your parking and shuttle bus when you register.
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What if my Mighty Hike gets cancelled?If we ever need to cancel your Mighty Hike, we know how disappointing that will be after all the training, fundraising and excitement leading up to the big day.
We’ll make sure you know what’s happening.
You'll be contacted by email and text, and live updates will be made to this FAQ document with all the information you need. -
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.