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: 44
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Braithwaite, Keswick
The 25/26 series of canicross races has now launched!
Held in England's only mountain forest, Dodd Wood & Grizedale Forest. The perfect location for you to enjoy stunning scenery and a fully marked course on forest roads and trails.
This series…
Whinlatter Forest, Keswick
Newbiggin
Join Rainbow Trust's Adventure Triple Challenge!
A transformative day of cycling, paddling and trekking through the Lake District all to help Rainbow Trust deliver emotional and practical support to families caring for a seriously ill child.
This…
Grasmere
One of the UK's most revered and gruelling cycling sportives. Known as "The Daddy of them all" by Cycling Weekly, this legendary event is not just a ride—it's a true test of endurance that rivals Europe's toughest cycling challenges, such as the…
Keswick
Experience adventure at Keswick Mountain Festival (15-17 May 2026) with trail runs, hikes, triathlons, live music, outdoor brands & more in the stunning Lake District. Book now!
Cockermouth
10km race from school around the quiet country roads in the picturesque Bridekirk and Tallentire area
Lazonby
A 10 kilometre race around the area of Lazonby finishing with refreshments and prizes.
Durdar Rd, Carlisle
Join us on Monday 18 May 2026 at Carlisle Racecourse for afternoon flat racing.
Our first fixture of the 2026 flat season is set to be a good one
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. Join us…
Cartmel Racecourse, Cartmel
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
Ambleside
The Arc'teryx Climb Academy Lake District returns May 23 – 25, 2026.
The Arc'teryx Climb Academy Lake District lets you tap into the essence of trad climbing with a range of clinics and workshops run by expert guides and world-class athletes. At…
Braithwaite, Keswick
️ Conquer Whinlatter! – Trail Half Marathon & 10K – May 2026 ️
Are you ready to take on one of the toughest and most scenic trail events in the Lake District?
Join Wild Deer Events in May 2026 for the Whinlatter Trail Half Marathon & 10K, a…
Whinlatter Forest, Keswick
Braithwaite, Keswick
10km and half marathon trail runs within Whinlatter Forest
Whinlatter Forest, Keswick
Grasmere
A packed weekend celebrating off-road running. The festival aims to bring together trail runners, ultra runners fell runners and orienteers of all abilities in an iconic location to race, relax and enjoy. Great routes and camping available.
Glenridding
The Montane Ullswater Way Trail Ultra, 20 & 10 starts and finishes at Jenkins Field in Glenridding. The Ultra Distance follows the stunning Ullswater Way route and includes both the Lowther Loop and the Dalemain Loop to make the course 33.5 miles.…
11A New Road, Coniston
Epic Lakes Swim Coniston takes place at Monk Coniston, at the North end of the lake. You can choose either the 750m, 1500m, 3k or 5k distances, depending upon your age and ability. Coniston provides yet another fantastic venue, with stunning views…
Durdar Rd, Carlisle
Blow away the Monday blues...at the races!
Join for an afternoon of flat racing at Carlisle Racecourse - there is no better way to start the week!
Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle
Durdar Rd, Carlisle
STEAK NIGHT RACE NIGHT!
Steak and Racing! Is there a much better way to spend a Tuesday night?
Carlisle Racecourse, Carlisle
Grasmere
Embark on a multi-day hiking adventure through the breathtaking Lake District. With every detail
- safety, food, water and entertainment - expertly taken care of, you can focus entirely on the
journey and the stunning landscapes around you.
Satherthwaite
A trail running weekend with two unique races.
Pooley Bridge
Recce run for the 2026 Lakeland 50 & 100 from Pooley Bridge to Ambleside. This run is only open for 2026 Lakeland competitors.
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