Christmas Pudding 10K

The Great Langdale Valley provides a stunning location for a 10K run. The start line, where the road crosses Great Langdale Beck, is surrounded by the iconic Langdale fells. Pavey Ark, Harrison’s Stickle, Bowfell, Crinkle Crags and Pike O’Blisco all overlook the runners as they wait for the starting gun. It’s a short walk from the event centre at New Dungeon Ghyll to the start line – just enough to warm the legs on a cold winters morning!

Shortly after the 2 miles marker runners arrive at the picturesque Lakeland village of Chapel Stile. The course passes through the centre of the village where spectators can support the runners while enjoying the hospitality of the village’s cafe, shop and roadside pub. The Christmas tree on the village green and decorations in local cottages really add to the festive atmosphere of the event.

After running through the Langdale Hotel & Spa and recharging at the refreshment station, runners arrive at Elterwater - halfway through the course. This traditional village is named after the small lake half a mile to the south and is also home to the Britannia Inn – another cosy spot for spectators who can enjoy the hospitality while cheering runners through the village. The course then loops back for the return leg and changing views up Great Langdale.

Just after the 4 miles marker the next landmark is the Langdale Boulders below the road on the left. The boulders contain some of the best examples of prehistoric rock-art in England. The Cup & Ring markings can be easily seen on the side of the lower boulder. The site is recognised as an Ancient Monument by English Heritage. The boulders are also a popular training venue for local rock climbers, who climb on the hard boulder problems when higher mountain crags are out of condition.

The course is now heading towards the final mile and finish line at the Sticklebarn. When runners pass the post box on the road side the Langdale Pikes start to come back into view and provide a stunning backdrop to the final sprint! This also presents a good opportunity for runners to get their Christmas cards posted on time!

The finish line field close to the Sticklebarn is the ideal place for supporters to wait and cheer as runners complete their 10K. Welcome refreshment at the New Dungeon Ghyll is close by and finishers can enjoy the festive atmosphere against a backdrop of (hopefully snowy!) Langdale peaks. For some runners their Christmas Pudding provides the ideal post-race snack. However, we have heard that others choose to save theirs for the trophy shelf. Who has the oldest Langdale Christmas Pudding?