Fell runs

Fell running, also known as hill running, is the sport of running up and down hills and even mountains. The gradients climbed determine the difficulty grading of the race as categorised by The Fell Running Association. It often involves navigation skills as fell runs typically have unmarked routes.

Fell runs are especially popular throughout northern England, including the Lakes, Lancashire and Yorkshire. Many races take place as part of country fairs or local sports days. And don't think they are just for experts - there's infectious camaraderie and a fun element in the main pack that isn't all about being the fastest. You can take it steady and enjoy the spectacular scenery.

FINDING A FELL RUN

Short, medium or long
Short races are 10km (6 miles) or less, medium are 10-20km (6-12 miles) and long are 20km+ (12 miles) or over. Marathon or multi-dayers are our Ultra listings.
Fell runs Ultra runs

Gradient guidelines
The steepest involve a minimum of 50 metres of climbing per km, with less than 20% of the overall distance on road. The 'easiest' are 20m per km and up to 40% on road.
Browse fell run listings

Know where you're going
The listings and the event organiser's website will give an indication of navigational skills required - this is vital, and we've got courses to get you up to speed.
Navigation courses

Recce the route
You often get a choice of routes, making a recce run a good idea when possible. And this is another differentiating factor from trail and cross country runs, which both tend to be on more defined and less hilly courses.

KIT, EQUIPMENT & TECHNIQUE

No shortcuts
For shorter runs in summer, shorts and running top might be fine but you are often on exposed fells. Many fell runs specify mandatory kit (such as full waterproofs, hat and gloves, map and compass), disqualifying anyone who fails to produce those items at any checkpoints or the finish of the race.
Fell running expert advice

On your feet
Fell running shoes are generally lightweight, as you don't need too much cushioning. They often have studded soles to help with grip and some side protection.

Running downhill
"Using arms for balance, avoiding overstriding and ‘air time’ will promote better form and build speciﬁc strength for the descents," Chloë Lanthier, elite mountain-running athlete.
More tips from Chloë

OTHER IDEAS

Slow down
If you want less emphasis on gradient and a more clearly marked route then cross country (look out for the icon to the left) or trail runs could be ideal.
Cross country Trail runs

Want to go further?
There are many famed 24-hour fell running events, often knows as 'Rounds' where it's about peaks climbed and distance covered.
Find an ultra run