Explore the Grisedale Valley
Location: Patterdale, The Lake District National Park, England
This is a clockwise loop of just under 9 km, starting from Patterdale and heading up the Grisedale Valley. The surface is about three-quarters unpaved trail, so proper trail shoes are the right choice here. Some sections of the path are uneven and stony underfoot, and after rain you can expect some muddy patches. The initial short section from the village is on tarmac before you get onto the main track.
The route profile is essentially an out-and-back shape with a small loop at the far end. Most of the 197m of total ascent comes as a long, steady drag on the way out as you follow Grisedale Beck up the valley. The gradient is manageable and fairly consistent, making it a good climb for finding a rhythm rather than a sharp, leg-burning effort. You’ll reach the highest point of the run at the turn, around the halfway mark.
Once you make the turn, the character of the run changes. The path loops back on the opposite side of the beck for a time, and the long, gradual descent allows you to open up your stride. Your line of sight is now clear down the valley towards Patterdale with the surrounding fells framing the view. It’s a classic valley run structure, with a sustained effort on the way out and a rewarding, faster return leg back to your starting point.