The Borrowdale10 Challenge with Professional Mountain Leaders

The Borrowdale 10 Challenge is an exclusive mountain challenge created by Lakeland Mountain Guides, designed to push your endurance, determination, and mountain fitness to the limit. This unforgettable adventure takes you across ten of Borrowdale’s most iconic and spectacular peaks, including Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain.

Perfect for those looking to test themselves in the Lake District’s rugged terrain, this challenge is both physically demanding and mentally rewarding. The Borrowdale 10 serves as ideal preparation for bigger endurance events such as the 10 Peaks Challenge or the 24 Peaks Challenge, and is a natural next step after completing the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge.

Take on the Borrowdale 10 Challenge and experience one of the most inspiring mountain challenges in the Lake District — a true test of stamina, spirit, and adventure.

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Terrain: Rough & Rocky    Duration: Approx. 12 Hours     

Route Stats: Miles - 12  Ascent - 2000m.      Start Location: Seathwaite Farm, Borrowdale

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The goal of the Borrowdale 10 Challenge is to complete this demanding circuit in under 12 hours, meaning an early start is essential. Beginning in the popular hamlet of Seathwaite, the route follows the valley up to Stockley Bridge, before a short climb on a pitched path brings you alongside Seathwaite Fell. A steep grassy gully leads to the summit — the first reward of the day — but the towering presence of Great End looms ahead.

From here, the route continues to Allen Crags, a straightforward climb, before a steady pull takes you above the 900-metre mark to the summit of Great End. With the height now gained, Ill Crag and Broad Crag are reached quickly in succession. A final steep ascent leads to Scafell Pike, the sixth peak — and the highest mountain in England.

A long descent follows to Lingmell, before dropping further via the Corridor Route to Styhead Pass.

Often considered the crux of the event, the next challenge is a tough 400-metre climb up the eastern flank of Great Gable. It demands determination, but reaching the summit brings the finish into sight with just two peaks remaining. The final summits, Green Gable and Base Brown, are easier tags, followed by a steep and satisfying descent back to Seathwaite.

This is a strenuous mountain challenge suited to experienced walkers. Anyone who has completed the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge in under 12 hours will have a good idea of the fitness level required. There are no points along the route where the group can be met by vehicle; however, for an additional cost, a re-supply point (providing snacks and fluids) can be arranged at Styhead Tarn.