Dale Head
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Event details
The Dale Head fell race is scheduled for 19 October 2025 and is held at the Rosthwaite Institute, Borrowdale. Category AS. Distance is 7.8 km (4.8 miles) with a climb of 675 m (2,215 ft). Minimum age is 16. Skills listed: ER, PM, LK, NS. Entry fee is £5, with entry on the day only. Parking is available by following car park signs approaching Rosthwaite. Checkpoints include the start at Rosthwaite Institute (GR NY 255148) and the Dale Head summit (GR NY 223153). There are toilets and changing facilities at the Institute. GPS is not allowed. Race records (2019): men 50:36, women 55:10.
Route and safety
The route leaves the showfield onto a farm track, crosses the River Derwent, then follows a marked line across farmland to the gate at the base of the fell. A steep, rocky ascent through Rigghead quarry leads to a stile and a path across soft ground to Dalehead Tarn, followed by a final steep climb to the summit cairn. The descent to the base of the fell may be by any chosen route; many runners fork right to pass in front of a climbing hut and follow a grassy descent to the fell gate, then follow the marked route back to the showfield.
Weather is often wet and windy and the race has been cancelled at times due to severe weather and floods. Competitors should be prepared to carry a waterproof whole-body cover, other body cover (for example a thermal vest), a compass and a whistle. Random or complete kit checks may be carried out on the start line. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
