We all love having something to aim for don’t we?
Whether or not training for an event is something you normally would do, we reckon it’s probably what we all need in 2022. It’s not just about getting fit – although that’s a bonus – it’s about turning up, with hundreds of other fellow nutters, to do something which makes you feel alive, together. And it’s even better when you do it in one of the most beautiful places in the UK. That’s why we’ve not only put together this list of awesome challenges that you could do throughout 2022, but we’ve tried our best to make sure there’s something for everyone on it too. Have a browse, choose your favourite, and set your sights on being part of something unforgettable in 2022.
Walkers
Image credit: Keswick Mountain Festival
May – Keswick 3 Peaks
A perfect aim for those who can’t access decent hiking terrain all year round, this 18 mile circular takes in Keswick’s most iconic peaks in one stunning round. The route offers up a nice challenge but will be more than possible for anyone who enjoys walking. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy Keswick Mountain Festival too!
Apr or Aug – 5 Peaks Challenge
This beautiful walk – to be completed in one day – takes in 5 of the Lake District’s highest peaks, including Scafell Pike, and so is an excellent way to take a route less travelled to England’s highest point. Starting and finishing in Langdale, you’ll be able to celebrate with a victory pint at the Old Dungeon Ghyll too!
Whenever – Lake District 3000 footers
The 3000ft peak marks the height we often deem a mountain of note in the UK – see the Munros – so take them all on in one fell swoop with the Lake District 3000 footer round. As these 4 awesome peaks are scattered around the park, you can choose to complete the linked route in 2 days or just 16 hours. Get a group together and get a date sorted!
Runners
Image credit: Windermere Marathon
May – Asiics Windermere Marathon
There are only a few events which take place entirely in the national park, and this is one of them. Well known for being one of the friendliest and most beautiful marathons in the UK, this challenge is perfect for road runners who want to enjoy stunning scenes as they race.
June – Montane Trail Ullswater Way
A beautiful trail route without too much elevation, this is the perfect race for runners looking to challenge themselves off-road without having to deal with the intense ascent and descent associated with fell racing. Complete the full lap of Ullswater or do a shortened 10 mile route – either way, you’ll love this stunning challenge.
June – Whinlatter Forest Half & 10K
Basically forest bathing, but at speed. No one can deny the benefit of being surrounded by woodland and trees, so choose Whinlatter for your 2022 challenge if you like the sound of atmospheric forest scenes with Lakeland fells peeking between the gaps in the trees. There’s a half marathon or a 10K route – both are sublime.
September – Keswick 5K, 10K & 15K
For this one, we can’t really put it better than the organisers themselves. “With the fells resplendent in purple hues of heather, Lakeland Trails in Keswick is the perfect way to start the Autumn Series.” Obviously where a bit biased, because these races start and finish in our beloved hometown of Keswick – but they really are gorgeous trails to run, and the atmosphere which goes with it is pretty special too.
October – Lakes in a Day
It’s lucky this race isn’t until October, because it’s a big’un you’ll want to train for. 50 miles, starting in Caldbeck, an ultra challenge from which you’ll really see (as you might have guessed) the whole of the lakes in a day. You’ll go over the Dodds, across the Helvellyn skyline and through the western fells of Windermere – a truly stunning traverse.
Duathletes
Image credit: Ascend Events – Lakeland Four Passes
March – Grasmere Wild Deer
Duathlon events are perfect for those who like the idea of a triathlon but don’t fancy the swim…which is a lot of us to be honest. This event is set in Grasmere and gives cyclists who also run (and runners who cycle) the chance to show off what they’re made of.
You decide when – The Frog Whitton
Worth considering for its name alone. The Frog Whitton is a combination of swimming and cycling and the most spectacular challenge of its kind, spanning across the Lake District and adding swims into the legendary Fred Whitton cycle route. The idea is to plan and do it yourself – with support – and show it on Strava.
Triathletes
Image credit: Tri Hard – A Day in the Lakes
May – Epicman
Early in the year but a middle distance, so definitely still doable, the Windermere epic man is one of the best ways to experience this beautiful part of the Lake District. The final section of the half marathon takes place within the grounds of YMCA Windermere, meaning support is nearby and the atmosphere is unbeatable.
June – A Day in the Lakes
A half Ironman which includes a challenging off-road run. Challenging, but beautiful, set along the dramatic backdrop of Ullswater. Make it into a weekend away – the event site has camping facilities right there to create the perfect race-festival feel.
September – Helvellyn Triathlon
Could you be up for ‘one of the toughest triathlons in the world’? Run up and down Helvellyn, climb the famous ‘Struggle’ for the bike section and swim across the depths of Ullswater. Definitely no ordinary triathlon! Start prepping now…
Cyclists
May – Fred Whitton
One of the UK’s most popular sportives, the Fred Whitton should be on the list for any keen road racer. At 113 miles long, taking in all the Lake District’s most iconic passes, it’s a challenge you’ll be proud to have conquered, knowing you completed one of the hardest day rides in the country.
August & October – The Beast & The Boxer
Another epic riding challenge comes from British Cycling with the legendary Beast in August, 108 miles of cycling on remote lanes through the Lake District, ending in Morecambe Bay. If you don’t fancy that, go for the Boxer in October, beautiful foothill riding which also takes you down to the Lancashire coast.
Honourable mention
Whenever – The Bob Graham Round
The Lake District’s most iconic challenge, this 42 peak route provides a firm testing ground for dedicated fell and mountain runners. Start at Moot Hall in Keswick, and try to get back in under 24 hours – a serious undertaking. It’s a challenge which plenty of walkers undertake too, a ready-made route through the mountains and a seriously enjoyable 2 or 3 days on the hills. Wild camp along the way for an extra sense of accomplishment and immerse yourself fully in the fells.