Explore the Bob Graham (Anticlockwise)
Location: Keswick
The Bob Graham Round is one of the most iconic challenges in British fell running, covering approximately 66 miles (106 km) and 42 Lake District summits with around 8,200 metres of ascent. This anti-clockwise route follows the traditional circuit in reverse, starting and finishing in Keswick and traversing a remarkable journey through the Northern, Central, Western and Eastern Fells. The challenge is defined by visiting the 42 recognised Bob Graham summits within 24 hours; the route shown here should be regarded as a guide only. Numerous variations exist between summits, with runners often choosing lines based on weather, ground conditions, personal preference, or support arrangements.
Leaving Keswick, the route heads immediately into the Newlands Fells, climbing onto the high ground west of the town before reaching summits such as Dale Head, Robinson and High Spy. The early stages feature a mixture of grassy ridges and well-trodden mountain paths, allowing runners to settle into a rhythm before the terrain becomes progressively more demanding. From Honister, the route enters some of the most rugged ground of the challenge, traversing the high Western Fells and taking in iconic summits including Great Gable, Kirk Fell, Pillar and Red Pike.
The descent to Wasdale marks a significant milestone before the route tackles the long central section. Here, a succession of major peaks including Scafell Pike, Bowfell and the surrounding summits provide some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in England. The terrain varies constantly, from rocky mountain paths and boulder fields to smoother grassy ridges where progress can be quicker.
Beyond Dunmail Raise, the character of the round changes again as the route enters the broad, rolling ridges of the Helvellyn range. Although the individual climbs are generally less severe than those found earlier in the day, fatigue often makes this section more challenging than it first appears. Long traverses between summits demand steady pacing and efficient movement.
The final leg crosses the Northern Fells, taking in Blencathra, Skiddaw and the surrounding tops before the long descent back towards Keswick. While the terrain here is often more runnable than in the central fells, the accumulated distance and ascent ensure that every climb still feels significant. A successful anti-clockwise round requires careful pacing, strong navigation, and the ability to adapt to changing mountain conditions.
Whether attempted as a continuous 24-hour challenge or enjoyed in sections, the Bob Graham Round remains one of the great tests in British fell running, linking many of the Lake District's finest summits in a single unforgettable journey.