ROLL WITH THE HILLS
SUNDAY 14 JUNE 2026 | LAKE DISTRICT
The date is set! The 2026 Windermere Marathon is returning on Sunday 14 June 2026, and entries go on sale very soon. ​Those signed up to Priority Access can take advantage to an exclusive pre-sale from Wednesday 16 July, before entries go on general sale at 10am on Friday 18 July.
One of the UK’s most scenic and challenging road marathons, this isn’t about PBs – it’s about the experience. With hills, breathtaking views, and a sense of achievement like no other, this is a true runner’s marathon.
​​​​
THE ROUTE
Over half of the 26.2-mile Windermere Marathon route will be run on partially traffic-free roads, or roads with a dedicated running lane. The course is hilly in parts with an elevation of approximately +600M. This is the perfect road marathon for runners looking for a challenge and those who want to to enjoy the scenic landscapes.
​The route starts at Waterhead on the shores of Windermere, heading North and then crosses the River Brathay. From here the route will take you South passing Brathay and High Wray Castle and then bringing you to the east lakeside of Esthwaite Water, heading through Near and Far Sawrey to the southern tip of Windermere. Along the way you will be treated to different views of the lake, Hilltop (the home of Beatrix Potter) and Lakeside amongst many others. You will then cross Newby Bridge and from here head back up North on the East side of Lake Windermere passing Bowness-on Windermere and Troutbeck bridge before reaching the finish line at the Great North Swim site at Brockhole on Windermere where you can celebrate in the vibrant event village.
You can view the route gpx file below.
WHAT YOU GET
Runners will receive a Windermere Marathon finisher medal and other goodies when they cross the finish line. There will also be the option to purchase a Windermere Marathon finisher t-shirt at the point of entry.
There will be 7 drink stations along the route, with toilets at all drink stations. 4 of the drink stations will have VOOM Hydrate Smart Electrolyte drink.
​
The Windermere Marathon will finish at Brockhole-on-Windermere where runners can celebrate alongside finishers of the Great North Swim. The Event Village at Brockhole will include a bar, a selection of food vendors and toilet facilities.
​
ABOUT WINDERMERE MARATHON
The original Windermere Marathon first took place in 1982 when a group of local runners and volunteers formed a Windermere Marathon committee and organised the first marathon around England's largest lake. The popular event has been staged each year since 2007, organised by the Brathay Trust, right up until the last staging in 2024.
The event is now organised and delivered by The Great Run Company, home of the Great North Run and other Great Run series events across the UK, and the Great North Swim.