Derwentwater Dawdle

The Derwentwater Dawdle is named as a 'Dawdle' is the fastest most will manage on it. But be aware. It is not a Doddle.

It is a challenging but beautiful 23(ish) mile self navigated route that takes in three tough ascents totalling 4300ft as you complete a full circuit of Derwentwater.

From the start at Victory Memorial Hall in Braithwaite you soon make your way to the first ascent, to the summit of Cat Bells giving stunning views back towards Keswick & over Derwentwater, from here you have a technical descent to the lake side and make your way past the iconic Castle Crag to Rosthwaite and the first check point at the Institute.

Another steep ascent soon awaits as you head up the infamous climb to Dock Tarn, a beautifully isolated spot... which is likely to give you wet feet! After passing Watendleth you will head to the second check point located at Surprise View (and if there is one, it lives up to it's name) before dropping to the famous Lake District beauty spot at Ashness Bridge. The final big climb up to Walla Crag is possibly the easiest of the day and will bring yet more stunning views over Derwentwater before a final fast and fun descent. One final short optional climb to the view point at Castlehead is included in the route before you pass through Keswick beginning your return to the start point.

This route features several punishing climbs that reward you with full panoramic views of Derwentwater and Keswick. It is not an easy day out, but the challenge will reward you over and over.

For your entry fee you get a full detailed route description, well stocked checkpoints featuring a selection of sweet and savoury food, with hot and cold drinks at CP1 & cold drinks at CP2. You also receive a cooked hot meal at the end & all finishers will get a bespoke medal. A professional photographer will be covering the event and their pictures will be shared free after the event.

Registration opens at 7.30am, the start for walkers is 8.30am and ALL runners set off an hour later at 9.30am. Cut-off for all participants is 5.30pm with additional cut-offs at each check point.

You must adhere to the minimum mandatory kit set out in our rules which are: 

• Full waterproof body cover (jacket and trousers)
• Map and compass (phones are not acceptable)
• Whistle
• Survival blanket and basic first aid kit
• 500kcal emergency food
• 500ml fluid
• Reuseable cup 
• Mobile Phone