Walla Crag, Castle Crag and Derwentwater from Keswick

The route

This 26.2 km circuit is the grand tour of the Derwentwater and Borrowdale valley, taking in two of Lakeland's smallest Wainwrights on a long, low loop from Keswick. With 719 m of ascent spread over the distance it is gentle for its length, which makes it a fine big day for runners who want kilometres rather than steep fell climbing. Footing is good throughout, on a mix of woodland trail, riverside and shoreline path, with two short, sharp climbs to the summits.

From Keswick you climb steadily through Great Wood and onto the lip of Walla Crag (375 m), the first Wainwright, perched directly above the eastern shore. The view from the edge straight down onto Derwentwater, with the Newlands fells beyond, is one of the finest low viewpoints near the town.

Into Borrowdale

The route then heads south, dropping towards the wooded jaws of Borrowdale and following quiet paths past Grange. A short, steep pull up old slate spoil gains the summit of Castle Crag (290 m), the second Wainwright and the only fell in the round Wainwright himself placed entirely below 1,000 feet. Its top is a striking perch above the valley, ringed by quarry remains.

Along the lake

The long return traces the western and northern shores of Derwentwater through Brandelhow and Portinscale, with Skiddaw and Blencathra filling the skyline ahead and the water alongside for most of the way. It is sustained, rhythmic running that eats up the distance.

Why it works

It packs two contrasting Wainwrights, a deep valley and a complete lake into one outing without ever asking for serious height gain. Carry food and water for the distance, and use the Borrowdale bus if you want to cut the loop short. The mix of two crag top summits and long, flowing valley paths makes it a satisfying way to bank serious distance and a pair of Wainwrights without the punishment of a full mountain day.