One of the most iconic and respected races in British fell running. Starting from Rosthwaite in the heart of Borrowdale, the route visits Scafell Pike — England's highest summit — before returning via some of the finest ridges in the Lake District.
The Borrowdale Fell Race is one of the great classics of British fell running. It starts from Rosthwaite in the heart of Borrowdale and circumnavigates some of the finest ridges in the Lake District, visiting Scafell Pike — England's highest summit — along the way. The race is part of the Lakeland Classics Trophy series, the English Fell Running Championships and the Lakes Grand Prix — and finishing Borrowdale counts as a genuine achievement in the sport.
Entries are keenly contested and typically fill quickly. Always check the official race website for the latest entry dates, race rules and mandatory kit requirements, which may vary from year to year.
The race begins at Rosthwaite in Borrowdale, quickly gaining height before a long ridge section taking in several summits above the valley. The route reaches Scafell Pike — England's highest point — before technical descents return runners to Borrowdale. The final miles reward those who have paced conservatively through the early climbs.
Mountain awareness and route familiarity provide a significant advantage, particularly in poor weather or when racing under fatigue. Approximately 17 miles with substantial climbing across classic Lakeland terrain — always check official race information for the latest details.
Build sustained hill sessions, weighted carries and back-to-back long fell days into your preparation from spring onwards. Borrowdale requires the ability to climb efficiently for long periods.
The descent from the high fells demands confidence on rough, steep and sometimes wet ground. Practice technical downhill running regularly — it is a trainable skill that pays dividends.
Great Gable and the Scafell approach are significantly more complex under pressure and in poor visibility. A recce of the high section before race day builds confidence that no GPS track can provide.
Long mountain runs of 15–20 miles with 5,000ft+ of ascent are the cornerstone of Borrowdale preparation. This is an AL-category race requiring specific muscular endurance.
Mandatory kit requirements are set by the race organisers and should always be confirmed in the current race instructions. Typically this includes a compass and the ability to use it, waterproof jacket and overtrousers, whistle and emergency supplies. Always check the latest entry information before race day.
"Borrowdale is a race I hold in the highest regard. It rewards mountain experience, technical descending and intelligent pacing above all else. I've competed here and coached runners to strong performances at all levels. If you're targeting Borrowdale as part of a Lakeland Classics campaign, understanding exactly how it fits within the wider series — where to save yourself and where to commit — is as important as your fitness on the day."
The race rewards runners who understand Lakeland terrain and know how to move efficiently between major summits. Local knowledge frequently matters as much as physical fitness.
The technical descents are where substantial time can be gained — or lost. Confidence, judgement and years of mountain running experience often separate strong performances from exceptional ones.
Borrowdale embodies the spirit of traditional fell running: minimal fuss, enormous challenge and deep respect for the mountains and community that host it.
Brennan has won the Lakeland Classics Trophy outright. We build bespoke training plans for fell runners targeting Borrowdale and the wider series.