Windermere Marathon: A Challenging Road Race in the Lake District
The Windermere Marathon is a 26.2-mile road marathon set against the stunning backdrop of England's largest lake. While not focused on personal bests, it offers a unique and rewarding experience with challenging hilly sections and breathtaking views. The approximate elevation gain is +600m.
Over half of the route is run on partially traffic-free roads or roads with a dedicated running lane. The course begins at Waterhead on the shores of Windermere, heads north, and crosses the River Brathay. It then proceeds south, passing Brathay and High Wray Castle, before reaching the east side of Esthwaite Water. The route continues through Near and Far Sawrey to the southern tip of Windermere, offering diverse views of the lake, Hilltop, and Lakeside.
The marathon continues north on the east side of Lake Windermere, passing Bowness-on-Windermere and Troutbeck bridge, with the finish line located at the Great North Swim site at Brockhole on Windermere. An event village at Brockhole provides a vibrant atmosphere with a bar, food vendors, and toilet facilities.
Runners will receive a finisher's medal and other goodies, with an option to purchase a finisher t-shirt. There are seven drink stations along the route, all equipped with toilets. These stations provide VOOM Hydrate Smart Electrolyte drink, and drink station five also offers VOOM Pocket Rocket bars.
Originally held in 1982, the Windermere Marathon has been staged annually since 2007. It was organized by the Brathay Trust until 2024 and is now managed by The Great Run Company. The event was recognized as Boutique/Specialist Event of the Year at the 2025 Running Industry Awards.
