I’ve just accidentally ticked off one of the hardest parkruns in the UK! I didn’t really know what I was letting myself in for, but sometimes the best adventures are the ones you stumble into.
It was the morning after a hen do, staying in the Lakes with a few friends, and let’s just say there wasn’t much of a plan. We were torn between Keswick and Whinlatter Forest for a parkrun… but in true spontaneous style, we went for Whinlatter. No maps, no course checks because I like to live on the edge, apparently.
The crisp Lake District air instantly makes you feel alive – it’s the kind of scenery that makes you forget you’ve had less than ideal sleep the night before. Little did I know, those first few minutes of running would feel like a warm-up for a mountain marathon. Trust me, the mountain marathon bit was no exaggeration.
The Course
Whinlatter Forest Park is a hilly trail run with some of the most stunning scenery you can imagine. You’ll take in Derwentwater and the surrounding mountains, running one loop with a short extra loop, all on trail surfaces. The start and finish are conveniently close to the main car park.
The run kicks off with about 600m of downhill, a lovely way to get started, before the real challenge begins. After that, it pretty much just goes up forever, with over 1,385ft of elevation. It’s a relentless uphill slog, even for someone used to hills. But the views down to Keswick and Derwentwater make the struggle worth it.
After a brief downhill breather, there’s one last push uphill before a glorious 800m downhill sprint to the finish line. That final stretch feels like pure heaven!
Parkruns don’t get much more scenic than this. Towering trees, views and that fresh forest air makes the climb worth it. There was even cake at the end!
What to Know Before You Go
- Trail shoes are a must. The surface can be uneven and slippery in places.
- Toilets are right at the entrance to the forest, so plan ahead.
- Cafe is nearby if you fancy a post-run coffee or cake.
- Transport: There’s no public transport to the forest, so you’ll need a car. The car park is pay-as-you-leave.
Should You Take On Whinlatter?
If you’re looking for a challenge, this is it. Hilly, scenic, and completely unforgettable. The idea of taking it easy? Save that for the finish line!
Feeling brave? Check out all the details and plan your visit on the official Whinlatter Forest parkrun page – trust me, it’s worth it.
