Not content with long distance the fell runner has to take in several mountains as well as rough conditions underfoot. Some races follow a set course whilst others rely on navigation and a good eye for the country. Several races take place in Borrowdale over the high fells. The Borrowdale Fell Race, which usually takes place in August, is 17 miles long with 6500 feet of ascent including Scafell Pike, Great Gable and Dalehead. Starting out from Keswick Latrigg (3.9 miles and 850 feet of ascent ) is a shorter faster route whilst the annual Skiddaw race (9 miles and 2700 feet of ascent) is more demanding.
The Keswick Half Marathon, typically held over the May Day weekend, consists of 13 miles around Derwentwater taking in the Newlands Valley, Catbells and Grange along the route, making it one of the most scenic half marathons in the country. Latrigg (3.9 miles and 850 feet of ascent ) is a shorter faster route whilst the annual Skiddaw race (9 miles and 2700 feet of ascent) is more demanding.
In September 2005 Keswick hosts the World Masters Mountain Running Championship, a world class athletic event and the first World Masters to be held outside mainland Europe.
If you prefer running with a map why not try the permanent course at Whinlatter Forest or join in one of the local club events usually held on Sunday mornings.
There are few more exhilarating activities than taking to the water on the mountain rimmed lakes. Derwentwater, with two marinas and two water sports centres is the busiest of the lakes, but even this level of use leaves it quiet and uncrowded. There is a sailing club on Bassenthwaite.
The local crags are nationally renowned for their range of routes and grades and are very popular with the experienced. Keswick also has a Climbing Wall, an indoor facility which caters for all levels of difficulty, a good starting point for beginners, offering advice and tuition, or for the more experienced to practice their skills.
Many people, whether from school, family holidays or training, have their first experience of outdoor pursuits at residential or day courses. Set in spectacular surroundings in the northern lakes area, sports as diverse as abseiling to paragliding and horse riding to quad bikes are on offer.
