The Windermere Marathon is widely regarded as one of the most scenic and challenging road marathons in the United Kingdom. Set in the heart of England’s famous Lake District, the race takes runners on a spectacular 26.2-mile journey around Lake Windermere, England’s largest natural lake. Unlike flat city marathons designed for personal bests, the Windermere Marathon is celebrated for its rolling hills, breathtaking countryside, lakeside vistas, and quintessential English village scenery. The event attracts runners from across the UK and abroad who are seeking an unforgettable marathon experience rather than a fast finish time.
The course circles much of Lake Windermere, passing through picturesque locations such as Hawkshead, Near Sawrey, Newby Bridge, Bowness-on-Windermere, and Ambleside. Along the route, runners enjoy views of the lake, surrounding fells, historic stone buildings, and landscapes associated with renowned children’s author Beatrix Potter. With approximately 600 metres of elevation gain, the race rewards endurance, pacing, and an appreciation for some of Britain’s finest scenery.
Originally established in 1982 by local runners and volunteers, the event became a fixture of the British marathon calendar. Following the final Brathay Trust edition in 2024, the race entered a new era under the stewardship of the Great Run Company, the organization behind the famous Great North Run. The revitalized event has quickly re-established itself as one of the UK’s premier boutique marathons and was recognized as Boutique/Specialist Event of the Year at the 2025 Running Industry Awards.