Runners pass through Penrith and Carlisle on 1k mile journey

A group of runners are passing through Penrith and Carlisle as they travel 1,000 miles from Lands End to John O'Groats.

The 25 runners are taking part in Run Britannia, and will pass through the towns on June 21 and June 22.

This fully supported route, spanning breath-taking landscapes and historical landmarks of the UK, includes 70,000 ft of elevation.

Run Britannia (Image: Rat Race)

The 37-day journey allows runners to take in the most beautiful trails across three countries in the UK, standing out as the most specific route available with around 200 miles more trail compared to traditional routes.

Major sections include paths like the Southwest Coast Path, Wye Valley Walk, Offa’s Dyke, Clyde Walkway, The West Highland Way, and The Great Glen Way.

The route is largely off-road and avoids main roads.

Accommodation, meals, guides and support (including professional support vehicles, safety staff, an event doctor and welfare plus daily massage and physio support) are all provided.

Run Britannia (Image: Rat Race)

The Run Britannia trip leader, James Campbell, who designed and first completed the Run Britannia route in 2021, said: "Having worked in the sports event industry for a long time, I wanted to help create an adventure that was challenging, expertly supported and breathtakingly beautiful all at once, which we’ve achieved with Run Britannia.

"Detail and customer care is always at the forefront when it comes to the route design and planning, so it’s hugely rewarding to see that pay off.

"Witnessing the runners’ sense of achievement completing a trip of a lifetime is worth the hard work."

Run Britannia (Image: Rat Race)

Jim Mee, founder of Rat Race, who organise the run, added: "Run Britannia is definitely one of the most exciting events in our event calendar.

"I have worked to create and deliver over 500 events during my 25 years plus working in the adventure travel industry, and this trip is absolutely a highlight.

"There is no doubt taking on this epic journey is a major physical and logistical undertaking, but we also have people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds taking part, who show that with dedicated training and support, a lifetime achievement like this one can be achieved by any runner or walker if they put their mind to it."

Entries are now open for the 2025 Run Britannia adventure from May 30 to the July 5.