A classic horseshoe traversing the High Stile ridge above Buttermere. One of the most beautiful and technically demanding fell races in the Lakeland Classics Trophy series.
The Buttermere Horseshoe is a classic AL-category fell race traversing the High Stile ridge — one of the finest fell ridges in the Lake District. The views on a clear day are spectacular; the navigation in cloud is unforgiving. The race forms part of the Lakeland Classics Trophy and the English Fell Running Championships.
Approximately 18 miles with substantial climbing. Always confirm current race details with the organisers.
The Horseshoe starts from Buttermere village and climbs steeply onto the High Stile ridge. The route traverses High Stile, High Crag and Red Pike with spectacular views across Ennerdale and Buttermere on a clear day. Technical descents — especially off High Crag — require confidence and sound judgement.
The route returns to Buttermere across the lower fells. Runners who know the lines off the main summits gain significant time over those encountering them for the first time on race day.
The High Stile ridge demands efficient movement on exposed terrain. Walking the ridge before race day helps identify exactly where to commit to running and where to move carefully.
The descent from High Crag is one of the most technical on the course. Practice descending steep, loose terrain at pace — this is a significant time differential between runners.
The initial climb from Buttermere is steep and sustained. Starting conservatively here pays dividends on the long ridge section that follows.
Buttermere in July often follows Ennerdale closely. Build preparation to include back-to-back long mountain days to develop the fatigue tolerance the Trophy series demands.
The High Stile ridge is fully exposed. Mandatory kit as specified by the race organisers — always check current requirements. Compass skill is essential in poor visibility.
"Buttermere rewards runners who can move efficiently on exposed ridge terrain. It is a race where fell running skill matters as much as aerobic fitness. Come with mountain experience and the technical confidence to move quickly in exposed terrain."
Moving efficiently across the High Stile ridge — neither too cautiously nor too recklessly — is the defining skill Buttermere demands. Mountain experience on exposed fell terrain pays off here more than anywhere.
The High Stile ridge in poor visibility requires compass skill and prior knowledge of the route. Know the key bearings before race day.
The Horseshoe traverses genuinely exposed fell terrain. Appropriate kit, mountain awareness and sound judgement are essential throughout.
Brennan has won the Lakeland Classics Trophy outright. We build bespoke plans for runners targeting Buttermere and the wider series.