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Peak District Trail Running Weekend

Peak District Trail Running Weekend

Peak District Trail Running Weekend

Peak District Trail Running Weekend

Peak District Trail Running Weekend

Peak District Trail Running Weekend

Peak District Trail Running Weekend

Peak District Trail Running Weekend

Peak District Trail Running Weekend

Peak District Trail Running Weekend

A weekend exploration of Peak District trail runs

Join us for an unforgettable trail running weekend in the heart of the Peak District, where adventure, learning, and community come together. Based in the beautiful village of Castleton, this experience is perfect for beginner to intermediate trail runners looking to explore new terrain and build confidence on the trails.

Across three guided Peak District trail runs, you’ll discover the stunning landscapes of the Hope and Edale valleys and the iconic Great Ridge. Each route offers something different - from flowing paths to technical trails - along with expert guidance to help you develop your skills, technique, and trail running knowledge.

Highlights

  • Three guided trail runs in the beautiful Peak District National Park
  • Professional coaching on a variety of trail
  • Meet like minded runners
  • B&B stay in a characterful British inn
  • Up hill technique and descending skills
  • Advice on equipment; clothing and training
  • How to plan the perfect trail route
  • Single rooms available
  • Option to join without accommodation

Our weekends are designed to be supportive, relaxed, and motivating. Along the way, you’ll gain practical tips, fresh inspiration, and the confidence to venture further off the beaten track. Whether you’re preparing for an event or simply want to enjoy running in breathtaking surroundings, this weekend will leave you energised and ready for the season ahead.

In 1951, the Peak District was the first area of the UK to be designated as a national park. Sitting below the dramatic limestone gorge of Winnats Pass, and mysterious Mam Tor the village of Castleton is one of the most beautiful in the White Peak. Our base, between the Peak Districts'  limestone and gritstone landscapes, offers numerous trails including the Limestone Way and the Pennine Way (aka famous Spine Race). 

Running with nature ads new dimensions to your health, mind and other sports. Join our Peak District Trail Running weekend - improve strength and fitness while exploring the great outdoors.

Join expert coaches; have fun, learn lots, and enjoy the company of like-minded people.

Images credits: Jen Scotney, Claire Maxted, Dave Taylor & Julia Tregaskis-Allen

Holiday Reviews


I had the most fun weekend! I have learnt so much about technique, training, nutrition and orientation that I will take forward into my running. Spending time with like minded people in one of the most spectacular place!

By Kim, UK, 2021 | 07 October 2021

The views on top of the mountains and climbing up the side which was steeper than anything I've climbed before during a run and also the force of the wind on top. Loved it!

By Lisa, UK, 2021 | 07 October 2021

Really enjoyed Claire’s energy and found it easy to get enthused by her love of running. She was filled with great facts and stories and generally had a very relaxed and down to earth way about her that made the whole ... experience really enjoyable.

By Rebecca, UK, 2021 | 10 August 2021

Just want to again say thank you so much to you, Dave and Claire for a really fabulous weekend. I enjoyed everything - lovely  group, venue perfect, lots of sharing by everyone of experiences and information - and of ... course so fabulous to explore a little part of the Peak District and the trails. The weekend has given me a renewed focus for to concentrate hard on my fitness - and to get back to the Peak District as soon as I possibly can!

By Jan, UK, 2021 | 29 June 2021

Grade: Leisurely

READ GRADE DESCRIPTION

At a Glance

Duration 3 Days
Group Size 4-10
Minimum Age 18
Countries Visited England
Meet In Castleton, Derbyshire

Dates and Prices

2027 Departures
Code Start Date Return Date Duration Price Status  
What's Included
  • Guiding and expenses of a mountain leader/running coach
  • Bed and breakfast accommodation for 2 nights
  • Accommodation based on two people sharing
  • Three guided trail runs, advice and training tips
  • Advice on equipment; clothing, racing and training
What's Not Included
  • Lunches
  • Travel Insurance - required
  • Miscellaneous personal spending
  • Trains or buses if used as part of the itinerary

Itinerary

DAY 1
Castleton to Hope Circuit

We meet at 13:00 in Castleton, one of the Peak District’s most charming villages, with Peveril Castle, plenty of small, independent shops and numerous pubs for guests to explore and enjoy. Castleton is also famed for its caves and caverns, most notably the Blue John Cavern, and is a haven for walkers, bikers and runners.

After introductions we begin our weekend with a discussion on trail Kit & Clothing before heading out for our first run.

Enjoy an easy paced circular warm up run from the Castleton village. All on good paths this flat loop first is the ideal way to get to know the village, the location and some of its history as we pass several medieval sights along the way. Leaving the village our route soon picks up the riverside path to large meadows accessed by small 'squeezer' stiles to reach Hope with its historic Saxon church. We complete our circuit returning back to Castleton wiggling through meadows and farmland. Dinner will be at our accommodation.

Distance: 7km (4.3 miles)

 

DAY 2
Mam Tor and the Limestone Way

After a hearty breakfast your running guide, who is also a mountain leader, will share their passion of planning routes and mapping trail runs. This session is designed to be a fun and practical look at creating routes and getting to grips with some basic map skills to give you the confidence to start exploring off the beaten yourself track safely and confidently.

We then head to the trails for our second run. Leaving Castleton we join the start of the Limestone Way, the path quickly rises behind Peveril Castle, through Cave Dale to open moorland to reach Mam Tor the Shivering Mountain! Mam Tor, meaning ‘Mother Hill’, sits at 517m (1696ft) high and is not only one of the most famous high spots in the Peak District but makes a very achievable running peak. Here the views are magnificent, particularly along The Great Ridge and Rushup Edge - on a clear day you can even see Manchester! Mam Tor sits on the edge of the Dark Peak (gritstone) and the White Peak (limestone) which means you get some fantastic views of the limestone parts of the National Park, such as the dry gorge of Winnats Pass.

The return leg and descent is all on good trail and gives far-reaching views down the Hope Valley and yesterdays run. Along the way your running guide will offer tips and techniques on how to tackle the trail ahead including uphill and downhill skills on a variety of terrain.

We complete our run with time to explore and sample one of the many charming quintessential British tea rooms. We highly recommend spending time in the Castleton Visitors Centre or visit one of the famous caverns that Castleton is made famous for; Treak Cliff Cavern, Blue John Cavern, Speedwell Cavern and Peak Cavern where you can explore vaulted chambers, bottomless pits, gemstone mines and underground canals via boat. Tonight we eat at one of the other traditional pubs or inns.

Distance: 15 km (9.4 miles)

DAY 3
The Great Ridge & Vale of Edale

Our final run begins with a short and steady climb to the foot of Losehill 476m (1561ft). This relatively easy climb has a steady continuous gradient to it's summit offering views into Edale along on along the Great Ridge and start of the Pennine Way. We are then rewarded by a fun descent along the ridge to Back Tor and Hollins Cross where we turn and descend further into the Vale of Edale. We'll have time to test our poles on a variety of downhill terrain before reaching the farms of Barber Booth and Upper Booth as we reach the Pennine Way. Steeped in history, this National Trail chases along the mountain tops along the rugged backbone of England and offers 268 miles of the finest upland walking in England a challenge for many runners in the race known as the Spine Race. From here, depending on how we feel we have several options available to us be it heading to visit Edale village, the official start of the Pennine Way, towards the High Peak and Kinder plateau, Rushup Edge or along the Edale skyline. The exact route taken will be decided according to the weather.

We complete the weekend with farewell drinks around mid afternoon; this is where Tracks and Trails services will end.

Distance: 10-20km (6.2-12.4 miles)

It is our aim to complete the proposed itinerary outlined above, however, it may be necessary for our guides/instructors to adjust the daily itinerary based on the weather conditions, group safety and enjoyment. 

Accommodation

We aim to accommodate our guests in well-situated, clean, characterful, family run accommodation. Our trip fees are based on two people sharing a bedroom, what we call a 'twin' means two single beds in one bedroom. If you are booking as a single traveller you will share with someone of the same gender. A single room may be available for your private use, but requires early booking and will incur a supplementary charge. For further details refer to Trip Information > Single Supplements. Our suggested accommodation, listed below, is subject to availability at the time of booking and is an indication of our accommodation, not a guarantee. Note it is unusual to have air conditioning in bedrooms in the mountain areas where our trips take place. If you have any questions about the accommodation please contact us.

On this trip fees are based on two people sharing a double or twin room with breakfast at either the Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn or Ye Old Nags Head in Castleton. The reservation will be in either of these accommodations depending upon availability at the time of booking.

Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, Castleton

Hotel

This inn is a real gem, situated in the centre of Castleton.

The present building dates from 1660 and gained its licence to sell alcohol in 1748 and became Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn in 1876. Enjoy quality homemade food, 5* service, large selection of draft beers and a very hearty breakfast!

Ye Olde Nags Head Inn, Castleton

Ye Olde Nags Head Inn, Castleton

Hotel

In the middle of Castleton, you will find your 17th century coaching inn.

Ye Olde Nags Head Inn is a perfect place to have as a base during your running trip. It's known for its fresh, locally-sourced food and it's historic feel. A perfect place to recharge after a day on the trail in front of the fireplace.

Trip Information

Arrival & Departure

Follow this link for details on how to reach Castleton with Google Maps.

Castleton can be reached from other European and worldwide destinations by road, rail, coach or plane!

By road: From the west, take the A625 from Chapel en le Frith following signs for Castleton Blue John Caverns and turn down the Winnats Pass (very steep). The detour signs from the west can be confusing and add considerably to the journey. Please follow these directions rather than Satnav as the postcode covers a large area.

By bus and train: Regular buses connect with Castleton. For bus timetable visit First South Yorkshire and search for the Sheffield-Castleton line no. 272 or no. 271 which goes via Bradwell, Hathersage and Hope. Timetables are published 2 months in advance.

If you wish to travel by train Hope is the closest railway station which is 2 miles away from Castleton. Hope train station is on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.
Taxis from Hope station to Castleton can be booked for approximately £10 with:

Penny's: 07917 7710771
Nice: 07977 402060

By air: Manchester and Liverpool are the closest international airports (40 minutes and 75 minutes respectively).

Further details on Castleton and the Hope valley can be found on the local tourist office website.

Please contact us if you need further advice on your specific travel requirements.

Insurance

It is your responsibility to ensure any insurance taken out is appropriate for your trip and the activity you will be undertaking. Tracks & Trails cannot advise on insurance policies or be held responsible if, in the event of a claim, your insurance is inadequate. 

Activity, Injury and Mountain Rescue It is a condition of booking you are insured for mountain rescue, medical expenses, injury, illness, death, cost of repatriation and personal accident risks. The exception to the mountain rescue insurance requirement is if the trip is taking place in the United Kingdom or Norway where mountain rescue is free of charge. Ensure your insurance covers you to the maximum altitude given on your trip itinerary. The maximum altitude can be checked in the 'At A Glance' box on the trip page. 

Trip Cancellation/Curtailment Insurance Insurance should be booked as soon as we confirm your trip is going ahead. Deposit and balance payments are non-refundable unless it is Tracks and Trails who cancel the trip due to a failure to reach the minimum numbers required. In this case we offer a full refund or the option to transfer to another trip.

Baggage Loss/Equipment Damage We advise insurance which covers baggage loss/equipment damage.

All the above is detailed in our Terms and Conditions. For further information on insurance options click here.

Kit List

When packing for a trip in the mountains it is important to have appropriate equipment and clothing. This kit list features items we believe are necessary for the weather you will encounter and for the accommodation you will be staying in. 

Equipment

  • Trail or fell running shoes for use in a variety of trails - please ask if you are unsure of what to bring

  • Running poles are only recommended for long climbing and mixed terrain - these will be available to borrow

  • Running pack / vest max approx 10 litres in size. Please test your pack for comfort once full. We suggest a design with a chest and waist strap - these will be available to borrow

  • Plastic bag / liner to waterproof your rucksack

  • Water container 1 litre (we recommend 2 x soft flasks)

  • Emergency foil blanket

Clothing

Choose from the following items according to the weather on the day. Please ask if you require advice. You must be able to cover yourself with 3 full layers on your upper body and 2 full layers on your legs.

  • Waterproof jacket with hood made with a waterproof and breathable membrane designed for mountain use

  • Waterproof over trousers 

  • Mid length tights and longs socks or long running tights to cover the legs completely

  • Thermal top with long sleeves 

  • Thin fleece or lightweight down jacket

  • Running shorts 

  • Breathable t-shirt / vest 

  • Warm hat

  • Ear / headband

  • Baseball cap or other sun hat 

  • Gloves x2 (one thick and waterproof for warmth & one thin)

  • Socks for running footwear

  • Scarf or buff for neck

  • Recovery socks / compression socks - not essential

  • Fleece/ wind stopper waistcoat - not essential

Comfort

  • Lip salve / sunscreen / sunglasses - essential on sunny days

  • Toilet paper - we recommend a few biodegradable bags to dispose of rubbish

  • N.B rubbish is not to be left on the hill so we suggest disposal bags

  • We recommend that you bring food you are used to running with i.e: snack bars / gels / energy drinks / trail mix / recovery drinks etc

  • Supplementary trail snacks if you follow a gluten free or coeliac diet

Documents

  • Cash – Sterling

  • Credit card 

  • Passport / Identification

  • Waterproof bag for documents

Additional Items

  • Camera 

  • Phone

  • Clothing for use in the accommodation

  • Comfortable, loose, long clothing for any stretching classes

  • Yoga mat - if owned

  • Ear plugs – recommended if sharing a room! 

  • Head torch - also useful when sharing a room

  • Maps can be bought locally - not essential

  • Compass - not essential

  • Heart rate monitor – not essential

  • GPS watch / phone to track your route - not essential

  • Book/notepad & pencil for talks 

  • Toiletries: including soap/shower gel

  • Tea / coffee bags - a kettle and milk will be provided in our meeting room

Personal First Aid

  • Personal medication

  • Blister Plasters (like Compeed)

  • Normal plasters 

  • Pain relief/anti-inflammatory

  • Glucose tablets 

  • 2x Re-hydration sachets

  • Anti-chaffing cream / vaseline

  • Antiseptic cream/spray – not essential

  • Foot tape – not essential

  • Bandage / support for knees

If you have any questions with regards to what to bring on your specific trip then please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Leaders are all first aid trained and will carry their own first aid kit

Is this trip grading suitable for me?

This running weekend is designed for those wishing to start trail running or improve their current knowledge in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. The focus will be on technique, fun and learning whilst enjoying three Peak District runs.

Suitable for regular runners who would like the freedom of getting out and exploring new places, designed to make you feel more confident and informed about exploring off the beaten track. If you can comfortably run 10 - 20kms (6.2 - 12.5 miles) or can run for 1-2 hours and are looking to learn, explore and improve then this trail running camp is for you!

Everyone will benefit from working with our two excellent coaches, and we feel sure you will benefit whatever your goals and aspirations.

Single Supplements

When booking a holiday as a solo traveller a twin bedded room comprising of two single beds, is booked as standard. This will be with someone of the same gender unless you request to pay extra for your own room. Single rooms are often limited in supply so if you would like to pay a supplement for a single room we urge you to get in touch as soon as possible. This trip has a single supplement of £80 in 2026 and £85 in 2027.

Luggage

For this trip you are centre-based, in other words where you are staying in the same accommodation for the weekend, you are welcome to bring whatever luggage you require. However not all rooms have lift/elavator access. This means you may need to carry your luggage to your bedroom and this might involve climbing several flights of stairs. We therefore suggest that you travel light, keeping weight to a minimum or choose luggage with wheels. We will be able to arrange for luggage to be stored on the final day whilst we our out on the trails on the departure day.

Itinerary Statistics

The statistics given on your itinerary relating to ascent, descent and distance should be used as a 'general' indication of the effort required. This is a guideline to help you decide if, based on previous experience, your fitness and stamina are correct for the trip. We ask you to note that the even the most modern of technology can show considerable variations in terms of ascent, descent, and in particular distance.

Weather

The weather in the UK hills can vary considerably. In the spring and summer months it is generally good, but can deliver everything from sunshine, to rain, fog and high winds. Temperatures can reach over 20°Celsius (68°F) in the summer, but can drop to 5°Celsius (41°F) on higher terrain. As with all mountain adventures you should be prepared for any eventuality. The average temperatures ranges from 10-15°Celsius (50-59°F) in the valleys and 5-15°Celsius (41-59°F) in the mountains and on the fells.

Currency

Credit or debit cards will be accepted at Losehill Hall however it is useful to arrive with some cash in cash whilst you are out on the trails the group stop for drinks and snacks. It is possible to visit a 'cash machine' or ATM after arrival and withdraw money on a credit or debit card at Castleton Post Office. Please note that the Post Office is only open during normal office hours Monday to Friday.

Passport and Visas

A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. We suggest keeping your passport in your rucksack, and a paper copy of your passport in your luggage. If your trip does not include luggage support carry a paper copy with you, but separate from your passport. You should check passport requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting, paying attention to your citizenship. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.  

NEW European Travel Regulations 2026 If you are travelling to Europe you may be impacted by a change to travel regulations. In the last quarter of 2026, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorisation system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. It is your responsibility to check for updates with regard to the introduction date.

Electricity and Plugs

We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country

If your trip involves staying in a mountain refuge/rifugio/hut a slimline and lightweight 'battery pack' can be useful for recharging phones etc. This type of accommodation will generally have electricity, but it may be limited in supply, and it is not always possible to charge items.

Fitness Preparation for Summer

If you would like help preparing for your adventure you could consider booking a Quick Fix session with personal trainer Kate Brown. This is aimed at those who want to get ready for any of our Summer activities. Your booking with Kate will involve a 45 minute 1:1 video consultation and action plan. You can read more about her ethos and experience here.

We also offer free training videos on our YouTube channel:

Trail Running Warm-up

Trail Running Progression

Trail Running Recovery

Tipping your Guide/Instructor

Tracks and Trails pays guides/instructors a fair and appropriate fee for their professional service. If you feel your guide/instructor has provided an excellent service that went 'above and beyond' then it is at the discretion of each guest whether to tip or not.  Guests will often give a tip of between 2 - 5 per cent of the total value of their trip. It is entirely up to you and any gesture will no doubt be appreciated no matter the size. 

Health

Before booking consider whether you expect to be in the appropriate physical condition on the date of your departure to allow you to fully participate in and enjoy your holiday. If you have any doubts because of an illness or injury it would be advisable to check with your doctor. We advise you always carry your insurance documents with details of the Emergency Medical telephone number for your insurance provider, and your policy number. 

GHIC For UK residents travelling to an EU country you should obtain and bring your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC gives access to state healthcare in Europe either free or at a reduced cost. The GHIC is not a substitute for medical travel insurance.

EHIC If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you should apply for a GHIC.

Care for the Environment

We feel strongly about protecting the environment and do not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We would ask that you arrive with a ‘water bottle’ or ‘hydration system’ that can be used repeatedly. We operate a zero tolerance for rubbish, and would ask you to remove all items from the mountain, this includes toilet tissue, and those items you consider to be bio-degradable.

The waste water in mountain huts, also known as refuges/rifugios, often runs into nearby streams and rivers with a potential impact on the eco-system, though in many places steps are now being taken to avoid this. Whether or not your trip involves staying in a mountain hut we would nevertheless recommend you consider nature friendly sunscreens which only contain mineral UV-blocking ingredients such as oxide, and titanium dioxide.

You can read our Sustainable Travel Policy here.

No Surcharge Guaranteed

Working across international boundaries, and with various currencies means the price of our trips can change overnight. We have undertaken to guarantee that once you have paid your deposit the price of your trip is fixed. The website price may increase due to currency fluctuations, but we guarantee that the price advertised on the date of your booking will be maintained. 

Our Partners

We believe in team work, and enjoy working with other small high quality companies. All our trips are organised by Tracks and Trails, but you may be joined by guests from other companies. Partners are carefully selected to ensure they reflect our ethos and standards. By working with other companies your chosen holiday may reach its minimum number earlier, allowing us to guarantee the trip and give you the go-ahead to book your travel. We guarantee that companies with whom we work will offer the same price package. If you have any questions about this policy contact us. 

Your Trail Running Guide

We go to great lengths to work with first class guides who are passionate about their work. They are fully qualified, insured, and hold the correct documentation. Your guide has our authority to make any route changes they believe are necessary in the interests of safety and enjoyment. Your trail running guide will be a qualified and experienced International Mountain Leader. IML's are trained to ensure the safe management of the group, but are also a source of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, culuture and traditions. Many of our trail running guides have competed in mountain marathons, and ultra marathons in the European Alps and further afield. You can learn more about our guides and instructors on the About Us page.