40k Run South Lakeland: Scenic Peaks of the Wainwrights

Route Overview & Local Insights

The Skamper INOV8 Round is a formidable 40km tour through the heart of South Lakeland, challenging runners with a substantial 1,531m of vertical gain across eight iconic Wainwright peaks. Starting from the vibrant hub of Staveley, you’ll trade paved valley floors for rugged fell paths, technical rocky ascents, and steep ridgelines. Highlights include the panoramic vistas from Kentmere Pike and the demanding out-and-back trek to Selside Pike. While the return through the Longsleddale Valley offers a smoother descent, the rolling terrain of Birk Rigg will test your endurance until the very end. It is a true "SL" (Short Long) fell run that requires mountain competence and steady legs.

The route begins and ends at Staveley Mill Yard, a historic industrial site that has transformed into a modern mecca for outdoor enthusiasts in the Lake District. This area serves as a gateway to the quieter, eastern fells, providing a more rugged and secluded experience than the central tourist hotspots. Local runners know that the "Round" is more than just a distance goal; it's a rite of passage for those seeking to earn their woven patch at the INOV8 Forge Store. Whether you are navigating the rocky crests of Shipman Knotts or soaking in the history of the Longsleddale valley—famed as the inspiration for Postman Pat’s Greendale—this route delivers an authentic taste of Cumbrian fell running tradition.