The Lakes, Meres, and Waters Ultra Run is a tough 100-mile endurance run in the Lake District that takes you past 26 different bodies of water and climbs over 6,500 meters in elevation. This challenging route isn’t just about pushing your physical limits; it’s also a chance to experience some of the Lake District’s most stunning scenery. You’ll run along beautiful lakeshores, through picturesque valleys, and over rugged mountain passes, making it an unforgettable journey for anyone looking to explore this iconic landscape and historic journey on foot.
This journey through the 26 bodies of water of each Lake, Mere and Water is linked through a series of trail, fell and road over 100 miles and over 6500 meters of ascent, make this a must for any ultra runner
Lakes, Meres & Waters History
The Lakes, Meres, and Waters Ultra Run has its roots deep in the rich tradition of fell running in the Lake District, an area known for its rugged beauty and challenging terrain. The route was first conceptualized in the early 1980s by Leo Pollard, who in the same year, five days later in fact was completed as a complete round by Peter Schofield. In 1982, Alan Heaton, the first person to complete a sub 24 hour Bob Graham completed the route. In 1983, legendary fell runner Joss Naylor completed the inaugural run, setting a formidable standard with a time of just over 19 hours, a record that remains unbeaten to this day. His remarkable feat, completed in challenging conditions, instantly solidified the route's reputation as one of the toughest ultra-running challenges in the UK.
The idea behind the Lakes, Meres, and Waters route was to connect some of the Lake District’s most iconic bodies of water in a continuous loop, showcasing the diverse and dramatic landscapes of the region. Unlike other challenges that focus on summiting peaks, this ultra run emphasizes endurance over distance and elevation, requiring participants to traverse a variety of terrains and climates. Over the years, the route has gained a dedicated following among ultra runners and outdoor enthusiasts, drawing participants who are eager to follow in Naylor’s footsteps and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Lake District in a truly unique way. Today, the Lakes, Meres, and Waters Ultra Run continues to be a celebrated event, honoring the spirit of fell running and the enduring appeal of one of Britain’s most beloved natural environments.
The Route: A Closer Look
The Lakes, Meres and Waters is unique in that it connects 26 different bodies of water, including lakes, meres, and tarns, without focusing on summiting the highest peaks. Instead, the route emphasizes endurance, navigation, and the ability to traverse a wide variety of landscapes. With over 6,500 meters of total ascent, it’s not just the distance that makes this route demanding; it’s also the cumulative elevation gain and the technical terrain that push runners to their limits.
Starting at Loweswater, the route winds its way through some of the most picturesque and remote parts of the Lake District. Early on, you will pass through Buttermere and Crummock Water, two of the Lake District's most scenic lakes, before heading towards the quieter shores of Ennerdale Water. From here, the route takes you over rough terrain and through the serene valleys that characterize this part of the district. The terrain is constantly shifting—from the open fell sides of Wast Water to the wooded trails around Thirlmere—requiring runners to adapt quickly to changes underfoot and to maintain a strong pace across varying conditions.
One of the defining features of the Lakes, Meres, and Waters route is its commitment to showcasing the diversity of the Lake District’s landscape. The path moves seamlessly from lake shores to mountain passes, offering sweeping views and the kind of solitude that is hard to find in more crowded parts of the UK.
Key Highlights of the Lakes, Meres & Waters
Key highlights along the route include Ullswater, the Lake District's second-largest lake, and the less frequented Devoke Water, known for its quiet, contemplative atmosphere. The route also touches Windermere, the largest natural lake in England, and the dramatic cliff-lined shores of Wast Water, which add a sense of grandeur and challenge to the experience.
The combination of distance, elevation, and diverse terrain makes the Lakes, Meres, and Waters route not just a physical test but a mental one as well. Runners must be prepared to tackle everything from steep climbs and sharp descents to technical scrambles and long flat sections, often in rapidly changing weather conditions. This route is a celebration of the Lake District’s natural beauty and a testament to the spirit of endurance running. For those who take it on, the Lakes, Meres, and Waters route offers an unparalleled journey through one of the UK’s most iconic landscapes, where the rewards are as much about the experience as they are about completing the challenge.
What does it take to run 100 Miles?
Running 100 miles is a monumental feat that pushes the boundaries of human endurance and determination. It’s a journey that requires not just physical preparation, but a deep mental commitment to withstand hours, often days, of continuous movement. Unlike shorter races, where speed and tempo dominate strategy, a 100-mile run demands a holistic approach. Runners must balance pacing, nutrition, hydration, and mental resilience, all while navigating varying terrains and weather conditions. It's a test of the body’s limits and the mind's capacity to endure prolonged discomfort and fatigue.
The experience of running 100 miles is as much about the mental battle as it is about the physical one. At various points, runners will confront moments of doubt and exhaustion, where every muscle aches, and the mind is tempted to give up. Pushing through these dark patches requires not only a strong resolve but also a well-practised mental strategy. Many ultra-runners rely on visualization, breaking down the distance into smaller, more manageable segments, and drawing motivation from the thought of crossing the finish line. The sense of accomplishment at completing such a formidable distance is profound and often described as life-changing by those who undertake it.
Preparation for a 100-mile race is an all-consuming endeavour. It involves months, if not years, of consistent training, building endurance through long runs and strengthening muscles to withstand the gruelling distance. Nutrition and hydration strategies are meticulously planned and tested, as improper fueling can lead to severe energy deficits and dehydration. The mental preparation is equally intense, involving not just a willingness to endure discomfort but also a readiness to adapt to the unpredictable—be it sudden weather changes, injuries, or unexpected course challenges.
Completing a 100-mile run is more than just a race; it’s a journey of self-discovery. Along the way, runners find themselves digging into reserves they never knew they had, learning to push past pain, fatigue, and self-doubt. It’s about finding strength in vulnerability and perseverance in the face of adversity. Whether running through the quiet of the night, feeling the first light of dawn, or crossing the finish line to the cheers of supporters, every step of a 100-mile run is a testament to the body's resilience and capacity for endurance.
Taking on the Lakes, Meres and Waters Challenge?
Taking on the Lakes, Meres, and Waters (LMW) route is no small feat. It’s a gruelling challenge that requires not just physical endurance, but also mental fortitude and meticulous planning. This 100-mile trek through the Lake District is a test of your limits, demanding rigorous training, a strategic approach to nutrition, and a readiness to tackle unpredictable conditions.
For those who commit to the journey, crossing the finish line offers a profound sense of accomplishment. The mix of exhaustion, relief, and sheer joy that comes with completing such a demanding route is truly unparalleled.
If you're considering the LMW route, you're in good company. The fell running community is renowned for its camaraderie and support. Experienced runners are always eager to share their insights, from practical tips on navigating the terrain to strategies for managing your energy and hydration.
As a full-time ultra-running coach, I’m passionate about helping others prepare for and excel in challenges like this. Completing the LMW route not only adds a remarkable achievement to your running resume but also connects you to a rich tradition of fell running. You’ll walk away with a story of perseverance and a deepened appreciation for the rugged beauty of the Lake District.
My Lakes, Mere's & Waters Journey
My journey to attempt the Lakes, Meres and Waters was after a very busy winter season attempting to complete all of the "Big Three" rounds in the United Kingdom, Solo & Unsupported, something that had never been accomplished. I worked hard to try and finish them all in the season and thankfully managed to complete the final round (Ramsay's Round) a few days before the end of the winter season, which ended on the last day of February.
Through March I took some time to recover and also recce most of the Lakes Meres and Waters route. I felt really strong and this was a different kind of challenge for me as it involved a lot more running at a fast pace, something I hadn't done loads of. I set my challenge to complete the route within 24 hours, which only Joss Naylor had managed to do.
I have written a detailed blog about my experience, this is available to read here:
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