Running Around Britain - The Lake District - A Run Round Wordsworth’s Walks

Are you one of the thousands of Britons who like to keep fit by jogging? Or are you a serious runner training for races and marathons?


Running Around Britain is an e-book series aimed at the jogger who wants more than just an internet route to follow. It is for runners of all abilities and ages, from a simple 3 mile route suitable for kids, to the lung busting 26 mile routes for the more serious athlete.


The different routes may be urban routes, nature routes, mountain routes, or any other manor of routes that are available in the local area. They are also intended to help search out routes that are not normally featured in the usual literature so taking you along some hidden gem.


As the reader is taken on the trip, places of interest will be highlighted and the history of the surrounding area and buildings will be developed. Don't worry though, the state of the paths and the terrain will also be there for you so you can judge whether it is suitable for your ability and expectations.


The book will also feature photos of the route so you shouldn't get lost!


We hope that you enjoy this e-book and that you will look for other books in the range for your next trip.


New routes are being added all the time so keep an eye out for new ones as they appear. If you want to contribute a route, then email steve.caron@jmdmedia.co.uk with your idea and he will be in touch.


This guide takes you on a circular tour starting and ending at Pelter Bridge. The 8 mile journey is a tour of three of the most picturesque lakes in the park - Loughrigg Tarn, Grasmere and Rydal Water. Using a combination of lanes, footpaths and bridleways the route provides views from both above and along the sides of these waters.

Time to complete: Allow between 1.5 hours and 3 hours to run or run and walk the route.

The state of the paths: The paths and bridleways around the route are well maintained but unless there has been a long spell of dry weather (rare in these parts) expect some mud! Some of the paths are uneven or slippery and are best walked rather than run. There are numerous stiles and gates. Understandably, the route is very popular with walkers so please respect others. If you're running (or cycling) be prepared to wait for a suitable passing place and don't expect them to move aside for you.

On-road or off-road: Of the 8 miles, 1.75 miles is on tarmac lanes, most of which are narrow lanes. These lanes are normally quiet but can sometimes be busy, particularly on sunny weekends. Take care! The route alternates between lanes and paths to provide variety and opportunities for faster running. The route is unsuitable for cycling because it is mainly on public footpaths.

The terrain: The route can be divided into sections ? flat, hilly, then flat again with a small hill at the very end. The total ascent is about 1200 feet. There are two climbs and one descent that all but hardened fell runners will walk. There are also several sections suitable for recovery or speed running.

Getting to the start: Take the A591 between Grasmere and Ambleside. Pelter Bridge is one mile from Ambleside (on your left if coming from that direction). Cross the bridge (it's narrow), turn right over the cattle grid and the car park is about 200 yards on your left. Currently (2012) it's free to park there so the 20 or so spaces get filled quickly. Pay car parks in Ambleside and White Moss are about a mile from the start. Better, get the 555 Lancaster - Kendal - Keswick bus and get off at Rydal.

Finding your way round: This guide provides enough detail to follow the route. It's suggested that you read the full guide before setting out and refer to it at intervals during the run. If you'd like to be guided round the route by the author seehttp://guidedscenicruns.weebly.com/. This is one of many that the aut