Helvellyn Triathlon

From a 1.5km swim in Ullswater to a 59km ride over Kirkstone Pass and a 15km fell run to the summit of Helvellyn in the Lake District

Helvellyn Triathlon

 The UK's most iconic triathlon. The UK's most beautiful backdrop. One unforgettable day.

1.5km Swim 59km Bike 15km Fell Run

The Helvellyn Triathlon is one of the UK's most iconic and memorable triathlons, set in the breathtaking scenery of the Lake District. From a 1.5km open water swim in Ullswater to a spectacular 59km bike ride over Kirkstone Pass and a unique 15km fell run to the summit of Helvellyn, every part of the course is an unforgettable experience.

Based in the beautiful village of Glenridding, this is much more than a race. It's a weekend in one of the UK's most spectacular national parks. Whether you're taking on the challenge solo, racing as a relay team or cheering on friends and family, Helvellyn is an event to experience as much as it is to compete in. Stay a little longer, explore the fells, lakes and cafés, and make the most of everything the Lake District has to offer.

The challenge

 

1.5km Open Water Swim — Ullswater

The race begins in the crystal-clear waters of Ullswater, one of the Lake District's most beautiful lakes. Athletes complete a 1.5km swim before heading into transition.

 

59km Hilly Bike Course

Leaving Glenridding, competitors follow the shores of Ullswater before climbing through Matterdale End, Troutbeck and Threlkeld. The course skirts Thirlmere before descending through Grasmere and Ambleside.

The Struggle — Kirkstone Pass. Steep, relentless and unforgettable. Conquer the ascent and you'll be rewarded with a fast, technical descent into transition.

 

15km Fell Run to the Summit — 950m

The final leg is what makes Helvellyn truly legendary. Athletes leave transition and head onto rugged mountain terrain, climbing to the summit of Helvellyn — England's third-highest mountain. Breathtaking views across the Lake District await before the descent back to Glenridding and the finish line.

Cut-off times

Race start 08:00

Bike & run completion window 4 hrs 45 mins

Last runner to leave T2 ~13:00

Cut-off at Red Tarn 14:30

Race options

Individual Triathlon

Take on the full Helvellyn experience — swim, bike and fell run to the summit

Aquabike

Complete the swim and bike, finishing your race at transition

Relay Teams

Teams of two or three — each competitor tackles one or two disciplines

Sportive Wave

Swim, regroup, ride, regroup and run the mountain together — includes hot drink and snack in T1 and T2

Race more, save more Enter two or more individual entries together and receive 5% off each entry.

Mandatory kit — fell run

- Waterproof full body cover — jacket and trousers
- Foil survival blanket
- Map of the route (available to purchase at registration)

Nearby camping

Limited camping spots available this year, as we relocate the HQ and transition to Patterdale Estate. Stay onsite and enjoy the festival atmosphere in this stunning location by the lake.