Sure, you can come to the Lake District, Cumbria, for a walk on the fells or to enjoy our stunning landscapes – but here, we know how to test your competitive edge too.
Throughout the year, we host challenge events of all kinds: from sporting competitions to quirky contests. Whether you want to take part or simply spectate, there’s sure to be something for you.
How about taking part in the UK’s biggest open water swimming event, or completing a marathon in a UNESCO World Heritage Site? We’ve also got an ultra-challenging sportive, as well as walks on Morecambe Bay (always to be undertaken with a guide).
Discover our local traditions with time honoured Cumbrian sports. Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling can be seen at sports shows in the summer months, while there’s also ghyll scrambling and fell running to discover.
Fancy something even more quirky? There are plenty of weird and wonderful challenge events – from a competition to find the world’s biggest liar, to who can pull the best (and most distorted!) face.
It’s time to show your competitive side: discover challenge events in the Lake District, Cumbria, here.
Don't limit your challenges, challenge your limits

Number of results: 36
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Coniston
Chillswim Coniston End to End Swim 2026 will take place on Saturday 20th June. Long distance swimming isn't just about being in the water, it's about the journey. Travelling the length of a lake from one end to the other gives the swim meaning. You…
Coniston
Chillswim Coniston End to End Swim 2026 will take place on Saturday 20th June. Long distance swimming isn't just about being in the water, it's about the journey. Travelling the length of a lake from one end to the other gives the swim meaning. You…
Durdar Rd, Carlisle
Be part of history at Carlisle Racecourse this summer as we host one of the most iconic fixtures in the racing calendar – The Carlisle Bell, the world's oldest sporting trophy, first contested in 1599.
This historic race is the centrepiece of a…
Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle
The Racecourse, Cartmel
For an unforgettable fun-filled day out, Cartmel Races is hard to beat. Perfect for family, friends and celebrations, the combination of thrilling jump racing and a relaxed party atmosphere brings thousands of people back year after year. Over nine…
Cartmel Racecourse, Cartmel
Pooley Bridge
Epic Lakes Swim Ullswater takes place from Park Foot Holiday Park, near Pooley Bridge, which provides a stunning backdrop for the event. You can choose either the 750m, 1500m, 3k or 5k distances, depending upon your age and ability.
Pooley Bridge
Ullswater Epicman Triathlon is based at Park Foot Holiday Park. You can choose either the Sprint, Standard or Epicman Middle distance triathlon races. The event starts with a 1900m, 1500m or 750m swim in Ullswater, followed by an undulating 90k,…
Howtown, Penrith
With 4 race options and 3 distances in each to choose from, the event is ideal for both novice and experienced participants and we encourage you to take advantage of the camping facilities at Park Foot and stay for the weekend!
Durdar Rd, Carlisle
NOW ON A SATURDAY!
Get your summer plans sorted and join us for an unforgettable evening at Carlisle Racecourse!
It's glamour, style, and racing at its finest – and it's not just off the track! Carlisle's Ladies Night is proud to feature the…
Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle
Arnside
We are so excited to announce the return of the Cross Bay Half-Marathon on Saturday 4th July 2026. Do you have what it takes to beat the Bay?
This unique 13.1-mile route snakes from the start at Arnside Promenade, across Morecambe Bay, towards the…
Pooley Bridge
Join our spectator cruise for the Ullswater Yacht Club's biggest event of the year, the Lord Birkett Memorial Trophy race. You're welcome to bring a picnic, and our onboard licensed bar will be open, so you can toast the celebrations in style. The…
Ullswater Steamers, Glenridding
Barrow in Furness
Walney Wind Cheetahs in conjunction with ORSTED are hosting a 10km road race on the 5th of July 2026
There will also be a childrens' fun run
CARLISLE
Run, jog or walk a 3k, 5k or 10k Race for Life event.
Or if you fancy taking on a bit of mud, sign up for either a Pretty Muddy kids or Pretty Muddy adults event which are 5k and include 11 obstacles from climbing frames to mud pits.
Bitts Park, Cumbria
Howtown, Penrith
Chillswim Ullswater 2026 will take place on Saturday 11th July at Parkfoot Holiday Park on the outskirts of Pooley Bridge, this will be the 7th edition of this incredible swimming challenge!
Swimmers will complete the full length of lake swim in…
Glenridding
The Swim to Devils Chimney is another one of our favourite island-hopping adventures, this time on Ullswater. With it's 'Big Lake' exposure and dramatic views this exciting swim requires a good level of fitness… anything can happen on the way to…
Ambleside
Coast-to-coast 180 mile ultra triathlon.
Haverigg, Millom
7.2 miler , multi terrain, charity run event
Coniston
The Lakeland 100 'Ultra Tour of the Lake District' is the most spectacular long distance trail race which has ever taken place within the UK. The circular route encompasses the whole of the lakeland fells, includes in the region of 6300m of ascent…
Cockermouth
♂️ 2026 M-Sport 5K & NEW Junior Race ♀️
The M-Sport 5K is back for 2026 – and this year we're introducing the NEW M-Sport Junior Race (2.5km, one lap of the circuit) for young runners. A great day out for individuals and families.
Location:…
Keswick
We indulge our obsession with swimming around islands on the Derwentwater Island Hop, and there is no better place in the Lake District to do it. This is one of our swim guides' favourite swim; it's a real adventure, has amazing North Lakes views,…
Derwentwater, Keswick
Workington
The Festival of Running is a community-focused sporting event designed to promote health, wellbeing and local engagement. The event combines competitive races with family-friendly activities, entertainment and refreshments, creating an inclusive and…
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