Lakeland Trails Staveley
The event takes place at Staveley Recreation Ground in Cumbria and comprises a set of marked, marshalled trail races and family fun trails. Courses run on footpaths and bridleways that pass through valley scenery, tarns and ancient woodland.
Distances offered include:
- 5 km Kentmere Sport Trail, open to those aged 12 and over
- 10 km Kentmere Trail Run, open to those aged 16 and over
- Half Marathon Race and Half Marathon Challenge, open to those aged 18 and over
- Children's Fun Trails for under 12s, entry on the day
Courses vary underfoot with short tarmac sections, grassy paths, stony bridleways and some stiles. Runners encounter graded runnable climbs and descents, including the final climb known as the Sting in the Trail. The half marathon route extends over Green Quarter Fell and past Skeggles Water into Longsleddale. The half marathon has two on course water stations plus one feedstation; the 10 km has one water station.
Important course notes: the final climb on the 10 km and half marathon is on private land and reconnoitring that section outside race day is not permitted. An alternative route has been introduced which adds approximately 500 m to the 10 km and half marathon routes.
Race day arrangements include an event village with live music, race commentary, local food traders, merchandise and a professional photographer. Parking fields are an 8 to 10 minute walk from the event centre, suitable for cars and small vans only, with a parking charge. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Are you ready for the Sting in the Trail?
Starting and finishing at Staveley Recreation Ground, the 5K Kentmere Sport Trail, 10K Kentmere Trail Run, and the Trail 1/2-ish Marathon courses follow fully marked and marshalled footpaths and bridleways, taking in panoramic views of most of the southern Lakeland fells. The trails climb out from Staveley above the Kentmere valley, before returning along the valley itself past idyllic tarns and through ancient woodland, climbing Reston Scar before the descent back into Staveley village. Underfoot conditions are quite variable and there's a bit of everything! Short sections of tarmac, grassy footpaths, stony bridleways with some stiles to climb over near the end, all add to the unique nature of the event.The stunning 1/2 Marathon course ventures a little further, over Green Quarter Fell, past the picturesque Skeggles Water before dipping into the dramatic landscape of Longsleddale. Refuel your tanks at the feedstation just before Kentmere before picking up familiar trails home. Yes, that does mean The Sting in the Trail!A carnival atmosphere is guaranteed for both spectators and competitors, with live music, race commentary, food and drink all available at the start and finish. So, whether you're new to trail running, an experienced athlete, or simply looking for an unforgettable day out in the Lake District, a family-friendly, festival atmosphere and some amazing trail running awaits you!Please note the 10k and Half Marathon routes onto Reston Scar are on private land and recces are not allowed on this section. Update: For over 20 years, we've had special permission to use this section of private land but unfortunately the farmer has understandably said ‘No’ this year because people having been running on it outside of the event.Viv has done a great job at finding an alternative route to the top of The Sting in the Trail (along with re-doing all of the maps and marshal instructions) which will add on approx. 500m to the 10k and ½ Marathon.