Helvellyn Triathlon

From a 1 mile swim in Ullswater to a 38 mile ride over Kirkstone Pass and a 9 mile 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 Mile Swim 38 Mile Bike 9 Mile 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-mile open water swim in Ullswater to a spectacular 38-mile bike ride over Kirkstone Pass and a unique 9-mile 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 Mile 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-mile swim before heading into transition.

 

38 Mile Lake District 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.

 

9 Mile 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)
- Compass

Nearby camping

We don't currently provide on-site camping, but there are several great options nearby:

- Gillside Farm Caravan & Camping Site
- Side Farm Campsite
- YHA Helvellyn