Pete Bland 50th Kentmere Horseshoe

Nestled within the picturesque Kentmere Valley, the Kentmere Horseshoe race offers runners an exhilarating journey through some of Lakeland's most stunning terrain. This medium-distance race spans 12.3 miles with nearly 3,300 feet of elevation gain, taking participants on a clockwise horseshoe route that includes iconic peaks like Ill Bell, High Street, and Kentmere Pike.
The course is designed to challenge runners with its ridgeline running through the Eastern fells' grassy slopes. The race begins at Hallow Bank before looping around the valley, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills and serene landscapes throughout. Runners will experience a mix of steep ascents, technical descents, and flat stretches as they navigate this scenic route.
Participants are required to adhere strictly to Fell Running Association (FRA) rules for competition, meaning all runners must carry essential safety equipment including waterproof whole-body cover, map and compass suitable for navigation, whistle, hat, gloves, and emergency food. The race organizers enforce strict cut-off times at two of the three checkpoints:
- Ill Bell: Cut Off - 1 hour 20 minutes
- High Street: Cut Off - 2 hours 20 minutes
There is no time limit set for Kentmere Pike, but runners must adhere to checkpoint marshals' instructions and report to the finish line if they miss a cut-off. The route will be well-marked with flags and supported by marshals from Hallow Bank back to the finish.
Parking facilities are available at the Hollingsworth & Vose factory in the Kentmere Valley, although there is a small charge for parking spaces. Refreshments can be enjoyed post-race at the nearby Kentmere village hall. Additionally, Pete Bland Sports will have their mobile shop on-site during the event, offering runners an opportunity to pick up any last-minute gear or essentials.
The race boasts impressive records set in 2021 by J Adkin with a time of 1 hour and 22 minutes for males, and H Horsburgh at 1 hour and 29 minutes for females. These times serve as benchmarks that inspire both seasoned runners and newcomers to push their limits.
The Kentmere Horseshoe race is not just about the physical challenge; it's a celebration of Lakeland’s natural beauty and a testament to the spirit of fell running enthusiasts who come together to enjoy this unique sporting experience.