Where to run
From fell running to forest tracks, lakeshore paths and parks, all with fantastic views, Keswick is a great place to run whatever terrain you prefer. If you enjoy running with other people there is not just one but three parkruns, plus a wide range of sporting events.
The three parkruns
Keswick parkrun
A free, timed 5km run that is open to all abilities. Every Saturday at 9am along the old Keswick to Threlkeld railway line path.
Whinlatter Forest parkrun
A free, timed 5km run open to all abilities. Every Saturday at 9am in Whinlatter Forest. Spectacular views towards Derwentwater, and a hilly course — the most elevation gain of any parkrun in the UK.
Keswick Junior parkrun
A weekly free 2k timed run for juniors only, aged 4 to 14. Every Sunday at 9am in Lower Fitz Park, Keswick.
Whinlatter Forest
Whinlatter has permanent waymarked running routes in the forest: 2.5K, two different 5Ks, a 10K and a half marathon.
It is also where the hilliest of the three parkruns is, and where the mountain bike trails are.
Races and festivals
Annual events include the Keswick Half Marathon, the Derwentwater Ten and the Lakeland Trails, plus a choice of triathlons and duathlons. The Keswick Mountain Festival in May offers a variety of running events. Dates and entries are in what’s on.
Going high
Fell running is running on a mountain, and the mountain does not know you are running. The weather changes fast up there — safety on the fells covers what to take and how to check, and the walking routes give the ground and the height gain for every route from the town.
More to do outdoors
Walking, cycling, climbing, water sports and multi-activity days — all the outdoor activities around Keswick in one place.