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The Dipper is back for 2024!

The Dovedale Dipper - or Dovedale DRIPPER as it became known in 2023 due to the terrential rain! - is a challenging trail event for runners and walkers in the Peak District National Park. Based in the picturesque village of Hartington, there is a choice of distances on two great routes which explore a wonderful part of the white peak area. 

The Dipper is a popular fixture with both runners and hikers, who travel from far and wide to take part. It was previously organised by the Matlock Rotary Club from 2003 until the 2019 event, which they announced would be their last. However, as the Dipper had been one of our favourite events for many years, we couldn't let it die and so Peak Running took over the reigns. 

Both the long and short routes take participants on an exciting and extremely scenic journey through the hills, valleys and villages on the Derbyshire-Staffordshire border. 

The Big Dipper
£32 UKA / TRA Affiliated or £34 Unaffiliated
Mass start (runners) 10am / Early start from 8:30am. Full details outlined in the "Schedule" section below.  

Our long route is comfortably a marathon distance (some may even claim it's an ultra as it's closer to 27-miles than 26!). It's an anticlockwise route exploring both the Dove and Manifold valleys, sometimes weaving around the hills and sometimes going over them to provide some spectacular views. 

The Little Dipper
£32 UKA / TRA Affiliated or £34 Unaffiliated
Mass Start (runners) 11am / Early start from 10:05am. Full details outlined in the "Scedule" section below.

The shorter route provides a great option for those who aren't up for a full marathon distance, or would like a more leisurely day out in the Peaks. It's not to be underestimated though, as you don't get to avoid the best hills.
Event Information
  • Background
    2024 will be the fifth edition of our Peak District Ultras. Creating an iconic ultramarathon for the Peak District is something that Peak Running founders, Andy Brooks (Brooksie) and Chris Hopkinson, had been thinking about for many years before. As a fell and trail runner since the mid 90's, Brooksie has always had a penchant for going long. So, while there have been some great races in the Peaks over the years, satisfying that desire has traditionally meant travelling a long way from his Derbyshire home. To take on his first 100-miler, he had to go all the way to the mountains of Virgina, because there was yet to be one in the UK in those days! Chris' passion for mountain marathons in remote locations, and the challenge of planning routes through the terrain, is something that has seen him travel to other parts of the UK, and overseas (including Iceland and Japan) over the years, to enjoy his fix too. The increase in popularity of mountain and ultra-running in the UK in more recent times has led to some fantastic events emerging in the other national parks. Something that the guys have revelled in. But their own backyard, the Peak District, was still crying out for something special in their view. Our aim, therefore, with The Peak District Ultras is to provide an event that's not only a fantastic experience for those taking part, but something that is also a special day for the communities within our favourite playground, the 'original' national park. In our view, the Peak District is the best place on the planet to go for a run. Click HERE to to understand why.
  • Race Ethos
    Our ethos for the event is aligned with our ethos for Peak Running as a whole. We want it to be an event that is capable of challenging even the most experienced ultra-runners, while also inspiring those within the wider running community to push their boundaries and achieve things they may not have thought possible themselves. So, in addition to the race itself, there is bags of guidance and support available to help you achieve your ambitions and complete the event safely. We want there to be some tough competition at the front of the fields in each distance. But we also recognise that, for the majority, simply finishing is winning for them. So even if you're not a fast runner, or you'd prefer to hike, it's designed to accommodate you. From a broader perspective, we want to make it an event that has a positive impact on the Peak District, its communities and the local environment. An event that residents, local businesses, and those that look after the delicate landscapes within the park, support and look foward to. Our commitments to this fundamental aim for the event include: Donating a proportion of the profits to the Peak District National Park Foundation charity to help them protect this wonderful park, for everyone, forever. Building strong relationships with the park authorities and land managers, their rangers and other stakeholders. Organising conservation days for runners to help carry out important conservation and restoration work on the trails within the park. Using the event as a vehicle to help promote and educate people on the work and behaviours necessary to maintain the beauty of the park for future generations. Using community facilities for event HQ and checkpoints wherever possible. Using local independant buinesses for supplies, such as race mementos, t-shirts etc. Ensuring there will be no trace of the event by the time it is wrapped up on the Sunday.
  • Entries
    Entries, including changes to a different distance, will close on Monday 26th August or earlier if the capacity is reached. Entries after 1st July 2024 are not guaranteed a finishers memento. The prices for entries are: Millstone 100 : £147 Limestone 50 : £77 Peveril 33 : £57 The above prices are subject to a £2 supplement for participants who are not affiliated to UK Athletics or members of the Trail Runnings Association. By purchasing an entry you agree to the terms on conditions specified below in the 'Taking Part' section of this website.
  • What's Included?
    Participation in a race on a spectacular route in the Peak District National Park Detailed results, including intermediate check-point splits A unique memento for finishers Comprehensive event handbook Access to a detailed route description GPX file of the route Well stocked aid stations Hot meal at the finish Support from an highly experienced and enthusiastic event team Live GPS tracking (for Millstone 100 participants) Professional medical support UTMB World Series qualifying points for finishers Option to purchase a high quality event technical t-shirt (order when entering)
  • Location
    The event in based in the heart of the beautiful and vibrant village of Castleton in the Hope Valley. The village is situated at the foot of the historic Peveril Castle and surrounded by spectacular hills. The base for the race and event HQ is The Peveril Centre which is on the western side of the village. The address is: The Peveril Centre Buxton Road Castleton Hope Valley Derbyshire S33 8WP
  • Schedule
    Friday 30th August 2024 16:00 Registration Opens – Millstone 100 only 17:30 Registration Closes 17:30 Race Briefing – The Millstone 100 18:00 The Millstone 100 starts Saturday 31st August 2024 06:30 Registration Opens 08:15 Registration Closes 08:30 Race Briefing -The Limestone 50 & Peveril 33 09:00 The Limestone 50 & Peveril 33 start Sunday 1st September 2024 06:00 Deadline to complete all races
  • Event Team
    Our event team, The Blinding Peakers, are renowned for their enthusiasm and ability to bring a sense of fun to an event, while maintaining the professional standards needed to ensure a smooth and safe event for all involved. They’re nearly all runners themselves, and many are ultramarathon veterans. So they know what it’s all about and know what you need, maybe even before you do. If you are interested in joining the team please contact us.
  • Car and Campervan Parking
    A dedicated event car and campervan park, with temporary toilets, will be provided close to race HQ in Castleton. This is available to both participants and supporters throughout the weekend for a small charge. Permits for use can be purchased when registering for the event on the Fabian4 entry system. Full details of the arrangements will be provided in the Event Handbook prior the event.
  • Local Accommodation
    There are various accommodation options in the area. Locally there are two Youth Hostels (Losehill Hall and Edale Activity Centre) and a number of camp sites which take tents. There are also various pubs with accommodation, B&Bs and holiday cottages. The nearest large towns/cities with greater accommodation options are Buxton (10 miles), Chesterfield (15 miles), Sheffield (15 miles), Stockport (15 miles) and Manchester (20 miles).

Taking Part

  • Background
    2024 will be the fifth edition of our Peak District Ultras. Creating an iconic ultramarathon for the Peak District is something that Peak Running founders, Andy Brooks (Brooksie) and Chris Hopkinson, had been thinking about for many years before. As a fell and trail runner since the mid 90's, Brooksie has always had a penchant for going long. So, while there have been some great races in the Peaks over the years, satisfying that desire has traditionally meant travelling a long way from his Derbyshire home. To take on his first 100-miler, he had to go all the way to the mountains of Virgina, because there was yet to be one in the UK in those days! Chris' passion for mountain marathons in remote locations, and the challenge of planning routes through the terrain, is something that has seen him travel to other parts of the UK, and overseas (including Iceland and Japan) over the years, to enjoy his fix too. The increase in popularity of mountain and ultra-running in the UK in more recent times has led to some fantastic events emerging in the other national parks. Something that the guys have revelled in. But their own backyard, the Peak District, was still crying out for something special in their view. Our aim, therefore, with The Peak District Ultras is to provide an event that's not only a fantastic experience for those taking part, but something that is also a special day for the communities within our favourite playground, the 'original' national park. In our view, the Peak District is the best place on the planet to go for a run. Click HERE to to understand why.
  • Race Ethos
    Our ethos for the event is aligned with our ethos for Peak Running as a whole. We want it to be an event that is capable of challenging even the most experienced ultra-runners, while also inspiring those within the wider running community to push their boundaries and achieve things they may not have thought possible themselves. So, in addition to the race itself, there is bags of guidance and support available to help you achieve your ambitions and complete the event safely. We want there to be some tough competition at the front of the fields in each distance. But we also recognise that, for the majority, simply finishing is winning for them. So even if you're not a fast runner, or you'd prefer to hike, it's designed to accommodate you. From a broader perspective, we want to make it an event that has a positive impact on the Peak District, its communities and the local environment. An event that residents, local businesses, and those that look after the delicate landscapes within the park, support and look foward to. Our commitments to this fundamental aim for the event include: Donating a proportion of the profits to the Peak District National Park Foundation charity to help them protect this wonderful park, for everyone, forever. Building strong relationships with the park authorities and land managers, their rangers and other stakeholders. Organising conservation days for runners to help carry out important conservation and restoration work on the trails within the park. Using the event as a vehicle to help promote and educate people on the work and behaviours necessary to maintain the beauty of the park for future generations. Using community facilities for event HQ and checkpoints wherever possible. Using local independant buinesses for supplies, such as race mementos, t-shirts etc. Ensuring there will be no trace of the event by the time it is wrapped up on the Sunday.
  • Entries
    Entries, including changes to a different distance, will close on Monday 26th August or earlier if the capacity is reached. Entries after 1st July 2024 are not guaranteed a finishers memento. The prices for entries are: Millstone 100 : £147 Limestone 50 : £77 Peveril 33 : £57 The above prices are subject to a £2 supplement for participants who are not affiliated to UK Athletics or members of the Trail Runnings Association. By purchasing an entry you agree to the terms on conditions specified below in the 'Taking Part' section of this website.
  • What's Included?
    Participation in a race on a spectacular route in the Peak District National Park Detailed results, including intermediate check-point splits A unique memento for finishers Comprehensive event handbook Access to a detailed route description GPX file of the route Well stocked aid stations Hot meal at the finish Support from an highly experienced and enthusiastic event team Live GPS tracking (for Millstone 100 participants) Professional medical support UTMB World Series qualifying points for finishers Option to purchase a high quality event technical t-shirt (order when entering)
  • Location
    The event in based in the heart of the beautiful and vibrant village of Castleton in the Hope Valley. The village is situated at the foot of the historic Peveril Castle and surrounded by spectacular hills. The base for the race and event HQ is The Peveril Centre which is on the western side of the village. The address is: The Peveril Centre Buxton Road Castleton Hope Valley Derbyshire S33 8WP
  • Schedule
    Friday 30th August 2024 16:00 Registration Opens – Millstone 100 only 17:30 Registration Closes 17:30 Race Briefing – The Millstone 100 18:00 The Millstone 100 starts Saturday 31st August 2024 06:30 Registration Opens 08:15 Registration Closes 08:30 Race Briefing -The Limestone 50 & Peveril 33 09:00 The Limestone 50 & Peveril 33 start Sunday 1st September 2024 06:00 Deadline to complete all races
  • Event Team
    Our event team, The Blinding Peakers, are renowned for their enthusiasm and ability to bring a sense of fun to an event, while maintaining the professional standards needed to ensure a smooth and safe event for all involved. They’re nearly all runners themselves, and many are ultramarathon veterans. So they know what it’s all about and know what you need, maybe even before you do. If you are interested in joining the team please contact us.
  • Car and Campervan Parking
    A dedicated event car and campervan park, with temporary toilets, will be provided close to race HQ in Castleton. This is available to both participants and supporters throughout the weekend for a small charge. Permits for use can be purchased when registering for the event on the Fabian4 entry system. Full details of the arrangements will be provided in the Event Handbook prior the event.
  • Local Accommodation
    There are various accommodation options in the area. Locally there are two Youth Hostels (Losehill Hall and Edale Activity Centre) and a number of camp sites which take tents. There are also various pubs with accommodation, B&Bs and holiday cottages. The nearest large towns/cities with greater accommodation options are Buxton (10 miles), Chesterfield (15 miles), Sheffield (15 miles), Stockport (15 miles) and Manchester (20 miles).

FAQs

  • Background
    2024 will be the fifth edition of our Peak District Ultras. Creating an iconic ultramarathon for the Peak District is something that Peak Running founders, Andy Brooks (Brooksie) and Chris Hopkinson, had been thinking about for many years before. As a fell and trail runner since the mid 90's, Brooksie has always had a penchant for going long. So, while there have been some great races in the Peaks over the years, satisfying that desire has traditionally meant travelling a long way from his Derbyshire home. To take on his first 100-miler, he had to go all the way to the mountains of Virgina, because there was yet to be one in the UK in those days! Chris' passion for mountain marathons in remote locations, and the challenge of planning routes through the terrain, is something that has seen him travel to other parts of the UK, and overseas (including Iceland and Japan) over the years, to enjoy his fix too. The increase in popularity of mountain and ultra-running in the UK in more recent times has led to some fantastic events emerging in the other national parks. Something that the guys have revelled in. But their own backyard, the Peak District, was still crying out for something special in their view. Our aim, therefore, with The Peak District Ultras is to provide an event that's not only a fantastic experience for those taking part, but something that is also a special day for the communities within our favourite playground, the 'original' national park. In our view, the Peak District is the best place on the planet to go for a run. Click HERE to to understand why.
  • Race Ethos
    Our ethos for the event is aligned with our ethos for Peak Running as a whole. We want it to be an event that is capable of challenging even the most experienced ultra-runners, while also inspiring those within the wider running community to push their boundaries and achieve things they may not have thought possible themselves. So, in addition to the race itself, there is bags of guidance and support available to help you achieve your ambitions and complete the event safely. We want there to be some tough competition at the front of the fields in each distance. But we also recognise that, for the majority, simply finishing is winning for them. So even if you're not a fast runner, or you'd prefer to hike, it's designed to accommodate you. From a broader perspective, we want to make it an event that has a positive impact on the Peak District, its communities and the local environment. An event that residents, local businesses, and those that look after the delicate landscapes within the park, support and look foward to. Our commitments to this fundamental aim for the event include: Donating a proportion of the profits to the Peak District National Park Foundation charity to help them protect this wonderful park, for everyone, forever. Building strong relationships with the park authorities and land managers, their rangers and other stakeholders. Organising conservation days for runners to help carry out important conservation and restoration work on the trails within the park. Using the event as a vehicle to help promote and educate people on the work and behaviours necessary to maintain the beauty of the park for future generations. Using community facilities for event HQ and checkpoints wherever possible. Using local independant buinesses for supplies, such as race mementos, t-shirts etc. Ensuring there will be no trace of the event by the time it is wrapped up on the Sunday.
  • Entries
    Entries, including changes to a different distance, will close on Monday 26th August or earlier if the capacity is reached. Entries after 1st July 2024 are not guaranteed a finishers memento. The prices for entries are: Millstone 100 : £147 Limestone 50 : £77 Peveril 33 : £57 The above prices are subject to a £2 supplement for participants who are not affiliated to UK Athletics or members of the Trail Runnings Association. By purchasing an entry you agree to the terms on conditions specified below in the 'Taking Part' section of this website.
  • What's Included?
    Participation in a race on a spectacular route in the Peak District National Park Detailed results, including intermediate check-point splits A unique memento for finishers Comprehensive event handbook Access to a detailed route description GPX file of the route Well stocked aid stations Hot meal at the finish Support from an highly experienced and enthusiastic event team Live GPS tracking (for Millstone 100 participants) Professional medical support UTMB World Series qualifying points for finishers Option to purchase a high quality event technical t-shirt (order when entering)
  • Location
    The event in based in the heart of the beautiful and vibrant village of Castleton in the Hope Valley. The village is situated at the foot of the historic Peveril Castle and surrounded by spectacular hills. The base for the race and event HQ is The Peveril Centre which is on the western side of the village. The address is: The Peveril Centre Buxton Road Castleton Hope Valley Derbyshire S33 8WP
  • Schedule
    Friday 30th August 2024 16:00 Registration Opens – Millstone 100 only 17:30 Registration Closes 17:30 Race Briefing – The Millstone 100 18:00 The Millstone 100 starts Saturday 31st August 2024 06:30 Registration Opens 08:15 Registration Closes 08:30 Race Briefing -The Limestone 50 & Peveril 33 09:00 The Limestone 50 & Peveril 33 start Sunday 1st September 2024 06:00 Deadline to complete all races
  • Event Team
    Our event team, The Blinding Peakers, are renowned for their enthusiasm and ability to bring a sense of fun to an event, while maintaining the professional standards needed to ensure a smooth and safe event for all involved. They’re nearly all runners themselves, and many are ultramarathon veterans. So they know what it’s all about and know what you need, maybe even before you do. If you are interested in joining the team please contact us.
  • Car and Campervan Parking
    A dedicated event car and campervan park, with temporary toilets, will be provided close to race HQ in Castleton. This is available to both participants and supporters throughout the weekend for a small charge. Permits for use can be purchased when registering for the event on the Fabian4 entry system. Full details of the arrangements will be provided in the Event Handbook prior the event.
  • Local Accommodation
    There are various accommodation options in the area. Locally there are two Youth Hostels (Losehill Hall and Edale Activity Centre) and a number of camp sites which take tents. There are also various pubs with accommodation, B&Bs and holiday cottages. The nearest large towns/cities with greater accommodation options are Buxton (10 miles), Chesterfield (15 miles), Sheffield (15 miles), Stockport (15 miles) and Manchester (20 miles).

Route Files to Download

Below are the routes for the 26-mile (Big Dipper) and 15-mile (Little Dipper) courses.

To download gpx files click on the route names within the 'plotaroute' panels below. You can also open in OS Maps online or Strava if you subscribe to those systems - see links below each route. 

Step by step written route instructions are also available for the Big Dipper route HERE and the Little Dipper route HERE

The Big Dipper Route

The Little Dipper Route

Previous Results
2022
2023

Previous Event Photos
2022 - Mehul Vaitha Photography

2023 - Frank Golden Photos


 

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