Leaden Boot Challenge
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Event overview
The Leaden Boot Challenge is a long-distance walk and run held in the White Peak village of Alstonefield on Sunday 17 May 2026. The route is 26.2 miles with approximately 4800 feet of ascent and descent. The event is open to walkers and runners with a minimum age of 14 and an entry fee of £30. Entries for the 2026 event were open from 1 October 2025 and closed 14 May 2026.
Route and support
The elliptical route starts and finishes at Alstonefield Village Hall and passes through Milldale, Baley Hill, Nabs Dale, Ilam Rock, Bunster Hill, Ilam Hall, Musden Woods, Slade House Farm, Grindon, Wetton Mill, Ecton Hill, Hulme End, Sheen, Pilsbury, Hartington, Beresford Dale, Narrow Dale and back to Alstonefield. There are six manned checkpoints and two unmanned checkpoints, spaced at about four-mile intervals. Each manned checkpoint provides water, squash, snacks, first aid and mobile communications to the Memorial Hall. Walkers who retire are transported back to the start. Locally made hot food and cakes are provided at the finish and finishers receive certificates and cloth badges.
Organisation and fundraising
The event was created to raise funds for local causes after a church roof theft and has since raised tens of thousands of pounds for community projects. The organisers offer grants generally in the range of £200 to £2,000 to local causes. Dogs are not permitted to accompany participants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
