The Howgill Fells Mountain Running Race tests endurance across 22 miles of demanding terrain near Sedbergh, England. From steep climbs to sweeping views, it offers a thrilling challenge for runners and hikers ready to meet the fells on their own terms.
Wear Trail-Specific Shoes
Select footwear with strong grip and waterproof features to handle the mix of rocky ridges and boggy sections typical of the Howgill Fells.
Carry Adequate Hydration
Water stations exist but are spread out; bring your own water or a hydration pack to avoid dehydration over the long ascent and descents.
Check Weather and Start Early
The fells change weather rapidly; starting early maximizes daylight and offers a better chance to avoid poor visibility and rainstorms.
Review Route Navigation
The race includes unmarked sections with complex terrain. Familiarize yourself with key waypoints and use a GPS device as backup.
Challenging Peaks and Pure Grit: The Howgill Fells Mountain Running Race Experience
The Howgill Fells Mountain Running Race in Sedbergh, Cumbria, presents a raw, rugged adventure that calls both novices and experienced runners to engage with the fells on their own terms. This race covers approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) of tough terrain, demanding around 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) of elevation gain. The route does not just test your endurance; it challenges your navigation skills and respect for the unpredictable personality of the fells.
From the start line in Sedbergh, the course rises steadily into vast open spaces where the hills stand fiercely against the horizon. Expect rolling grassland slopes that shift from firm underfoot to boggy peat traps where rivers like the Clougha beckon and dare you to proceed swiftly but cautiously. Woodland trails offer brief relief with cool shade and the scent of damp earth, but the race soon pushes you back into the expansive fells where wind and visibility can change in moments.
The landscape doesn’t yield easily. Climbing the steep bends toward Baugh Fell or Calders requires steady pacing; these summits reveal panoramic views that reward the effort without distracting from focus. The descents are no less demanding, with uneven stone paths and hidden hollows that could easily betray an ill-prepared runner.
Practical preparation is key: durable trail running shoes with strong grip and waterproof qualities are invaluable here. Hydration is non-negotiable; water points exist but carrying your own supply is wise. Start early to take advantage of daylight, especially in shorter days, and always check weather forecasts. The fells hold no respect for complacency and test those who underestimate their power.
Emotionally, the race demands respect for nature’s fierce independence. The wind sharpens focus; streams push back against your pace, and the rhythm of feet on grass and stone meld with the breath of the hills themselves. It's adventure in its rawest form — a fast friendship between runner and landscape, forged in effort and awareness.
Whether your aim is to race competitively or simply finish this iconic course, the Howgill Fells Mountain Running Race is an invitation to experience the boundary between human grit and natural force. It’s a demanding, rewarding challenge that reminds you why the fells attract those who crave to move quickly but thoughtfully, in step with a land that is fiercely itself.
Nearby Trips
All Adventures
Boat Charters
Water Activities
Adventures near Sedbergh, Cumbria, England
Discover the unique and memorable adventures that make Sedbergh, Cumbria, England special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total distance and elevation gain of the Howgill Fells Race?
The race covers about 35 kilometers (22 miles) with roughly 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) of cumulative elevation gain across mixed terrain.
Are water stations provided during the race?
Yes, several water points are available but are spaced out. It's recommended to carry your own hydration to stay well-prepared between stops.
Do I need to have navigation skills?
Basic navigation skills are necessary because parts of the route traverse unmarked paths and moorland. Carrying a GPS device or map is advised.
What kind of weather should I expect?
Weather can be highly variable — from clear, sunny skies to heavy fog, rain, or wind. The fells hold their own climate, so check forecasts and prepare for rapid changes.
Is the race suitable for beginners?
While enthusiastic beginners may attempt it, the demanding distance, elevation, and terrain make it best suited for runners with some experience in fell running or mountain trail running.
Are pets allowed on the race route?
Due to the race format and safety concerns, pets are typically not permitted during the official event, but the area itself is dog-friendly outside race days.
Recommended Gear
Trail Running Shoes
Crucial for grip and protection across varied ground from stone to bog.
Hydration Pack or Bottles
Maintains hydration on longer or hotter race days where water points are sparse.
Windproof Jacket
Protects against the fierce fell winds and sudden weather shifts.
GPS Watch or Route Map
Helpful for navigation on unmarked portions and often poor visibility.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "Lunds Tower on Blease Fell offers a lesser-known perspective with open views over the Howgill range."
- "The dry stone walls enclosing the fells show an old landscape marked by centuries of sheep farming."
Wildlife
- "Look out for the red grouse in moorland areas and curlews whose calls thread through the higher slopes."
- "Raptors such as kestrels and buzzards commonly patrol the skies overhead."
History
"Sedbergh has roots as a market town with strong farming heritage; the race course crosses farm boundaries and ancient packhorse routes once vital for trade."