Leaden Boot Challenge
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Event summary
The Leaden Boot Challenge is a long-distance walk and run held in and around Alstonefield, White Peak. The course distance is 26.2 miles with 4,800 ft of ascent and descent. The event is open to walkers and runners and follows LDWA guidelines. Entry information on the official entry system shows an entry fee of £30 and a minimum age of 14. Entries for 2025–2026 open and close on the dates listed by the organiser; the event date is 17 May 2026. Dogs are not allowed to accompany participants.
Route, support and fundraising
The route is an elliptical loop from Alstonefield that passes many local landmarks, including 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 and Hartington before returning to Alstonefield. There are six manned checkpoints (plus two unmanned checkpoints), each spaced at about four-mile intervals. Each manned checkpoint provides water, squash, snacks, first aid facilities and mobile communications. Walkers who retire are transported back to the start. Locally made hot food and cakes are provided at the finish and certificates and cloth badges are given to successful finishers. The event raises funds for local causes and has donated over £45,000 to date. Grant applications for local projects are invited in the stated application window, with typical grants between £200 and £2,000. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
