Durham Dales Challenge
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The 35th Durham Dales Challenge
The event takes place on 19 June 2027 in Wolsingham, Durham, with the venue listed as the Masonic Hall (DL13 3AN). It is an annual challenge for walkers and runners that offers a choice of two waymarked routes across moorland and dales.
- 30 miles to Middleton via Hamsterley Forest; returns via Hudeshope Beck, Bollihope and River Wear.
- 14 miles traverses Pikestone Fell and returns via Bollihope and River Wear.
Time limits are set for both routes: the 30 mile route must be completed within 12.5 hours, with a cut-off requiring entrants to have left the Middleton-in-Teesdale checkpoint by 3pm; the 14 mile route must be completed within 9 hours. Tea and toast will be available at the start, refreshments will be provided at checkpoints, and a hot meal with meat, vegetarian and vegan options will be served at the end.
Participants must carry whole-body waterproof clothing and appropriate clothing for open moorland. A suitable map such as OS Explorer Map OL 31 (electronic versions acceptable) and a copy of the route description or a GPS device with the route uploaded are required. Dogs are not permitted because of nesting birds on the moors. Entry is limited to 300 and entries close on 12 June 2027. A donation is made to Teesdale & Weardale Search & Rescue Team. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
