Peak District Ultra Challenge

Participants from across the country prepare to take on the Peak District Ultra Challenge, bringing a surge of activity to communities across the region.

Taking place in the heart of the Peak District National Park from 4-5 July, the event, which has already seen participants raise over £500,000 for charity, will see around 3,000 runners, walkers and joggers tackle distances ranging from 100km, 50km, 25km and 10 miles.

The event starts and finishes at its Bakewell basecamp, with Challengers heading out to explore some of the Peak District’s best-loved scenery. Participants will take in highlights including the historic Chatsworth House estate, the Monsal Trail, and sweeping views across the rugged dales and limestone valleys.

Participants receive full support throughout the Challenge, including hot food, regular rest stops stocked with food and drink, and an experienced welfare team along the entire route. Optional camping and hostel-style accommodation are also available, making it a fully accessible and supported experience.

With thousands expected to travel into the area to take part, the event is anticipated to provide a welcome boost to local hospitality businesses, with hotels, pubs, cafés and shops across Bakewell and surrounding villages benefiting from increased footfall across the weekend.

Open to all abilities, the Challenge offers participants the opportunity to take on the course solo or as part of a team. While some will run the full distance, many choose to walk or mix walking and running, making it an inclusive event for both seasoned endurance athletes and first-time Challengers.

Participants will also be raising funds for a wide range of charities, with the Ultra Challenge Series continuing to be one of the UK’s most popular fundraising platforms, collectively raising millions of pounds each year, and half a million already raised so far for this year’s Peak District event alone. 

Event organisers, Ultra Challenge, pride themselves on delivering a safe, well-supported experience, with fully marked routes and industry-leading on-course support helping participants every step of the way.

As preparation ramps up, strong interest is expected once again, with a vibrant event atmosphere anticipated as local residents line the route to support participants throughout the weekend.