We have a number of tried and tested route options that you can choose from, with varying degrees of difficulty. Alternatively, we can put together something bespoke to suit you.
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Although most of our runs are in or around Derbyshire, we have experience of putting runs together in many other parts of the UK. We are therefore happy to organise a guided run elsewhere for you for minimum additional cost.
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The emphasis on these runs is enjoying the surroundings, so there will be opportunities to stop to enjoy the views, take photographs etc. The pace will not be fast and will be adjusted to suit the members of the group.
We are blessed to be based in Derbyshire, one of the best places on the whole planet to get out for a run. As well as the world famous Peak District National Park, we have a wealth of beautiful and historic places to enjoy. As well as a huge variety of spectacular landscapes, we have many historic towns, villages, country estates and stately homes all within running distance.
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If you like running and the great outdoors, our guided runs are an ideal way to get out there and enjoy this wonderful area in the company of like minded people. We take away all the hassle of route planning and navigation, so you can just turn up with your kit and enjoy the run.
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As well as scheduled runs that you can join, we can put 'on-demand' runs on specifically for individuals or groups. We also do workshops for those new to off-road running or wanting to improve their knowledge and skills.
Guided Trail & Fell Running Adventures
** IMPORTANT COVID-19 INFO **
All our group running activities are suspended until 29th March 2021. The schedule of runs is currently being reviewed and updated with details of runs now scheduled to take place.
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Scheduled Runs
Derbyshire Wayfarer Runs (& Peak District Ultra Recces)
The 'Wayfarer' Runs are fantastic days out running on the trails and fells, usually somewhere spectacular in or around the Peak District National Park, led by members of our experienced team of coaches and leaders.
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As well as enjoying some great running and fantastic views, without the hassle of finding your own route, they're also great opportunity to pick up lots of tips and advice from our experts, who have many years of trail, fell and mountain running experience.
Distances and levels of difficulty varying to give options for everyone.
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Wayfarer Lite runs are typically around 2 hours in duration and cover between 6 and 8 miles. So are ideal for those new to trail and fell running.
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Standard Wayfarers Runs are usually 12 to 15-miles, with occasional longer runs which double as training/recce runs for our Peak District Ultra races (The Millstone 100, Limestone 50 & Peveril 33). There is usually an opportunity for one or two refreshments stops along the way on these runs, often at local public pubs or cafes.
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Occasionally we organise an Extreme Wayfarer Run, which are either long in distance or involve and/or involve terrain that requires a higher level of fitness and mountain running experience.
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How fit do you need to be?
The emphasis is on enjoying a socially paced run in spectacular surroundings, with stops along the way to enjoy the views and take photos. We ensure that nobody ever gets left behind. However, in fairness to other group members you do need to be able to run the distance advertised and not be phased by a few hills. A fast pace is not important though, and it's perfectly acceptable - and probably encouraged - to walk the tougher hills on the day.
As a rough guide you should be capable of running 10k in around 65 for Wayfarer Lite runs, and for longer runs you should be capable of covering a half marathon on flatter terrain in around 2hrs 10min, or a marathon within 4hrs 30min.
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What kit do you need?
You will need to bring the following kit with you, as a minimum, and carry it with you during the run.
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Off-road running shoes
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Running clothes suitable for the weather conditions, plus additional warm layer for emergencies
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Waterproof jacket, with hood and taped seams, and waterproof trousers*
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Hat and gloves *
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Water or energy drink (min 500ml)
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Snacks and emergency food
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Money (including some emergency backup funds, e.g. for taxi to finish).
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Small back pack or bum-bag to carry items not being worn
* Requirements for some of these items may be relaxed on the day depending on the weather conditions.
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70 pence of entry fees for Wayfarer Runs in the Peak District will be donated to the Peak District National Park Foundation to support the #70kfor70years campaign.
Date to be confirmed
Wayfarer Lite: Back to the Bronze Age
8.5 miles from Darley Dale
An interesting run which is game of two halves. A pretty meander along the Derwent valley is followed by a climb up to explore a real Peak District gem. We'll visit some lovely moorland containing some fascinating relics of the Bronze Age and enjoy some fabulous views of the valleys below.
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Limited places: Must be booked in advance.
Note: Current Covid-19 restrictions apply.
£9.70
70p of which is donated to the Peak District National Park Foundation charity.
Date to be confirmed
Derbyshire Wayfarer: New Year, New Trails
14 miles (inc 2,400ft elevation gain) from Tideswell
A wonderful tour of the Derbyshire Dales area, which takes you down deep as well as up hight. One of the highlights being a hilltop with, in our opinion, the best view in the whole of the White Peak.
Limited places: Must be booked in advance.
Note: Current Covid-19 restrictions apply.
£14.70
70p of which is donated to the Peak District National Park Foundation charity.
Forthcoming Attractions
for 2021
We are currently updating our programme for 2021. More information will shared shortly and bookings opened.
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In the meantime provisional dates for Wayfarer and Wayfarer Lite runs is as below. However additional dates may be added, particularly for Wayfarer Lite runs.
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Sat 24th April or Sun 16th May 2021 - Wayfarer / Peak District Ultra Recce #1
Sat 29th May 2021 - Wayfarer / Peak District Ultra Recce #2
Sat 26th June 2021 - Wayfarer / Peak District Ultra Recce #3 (Night Run)
Sat 10th July 2021 - Wayfarer / Peak District Ultra Recce #4
Sat 24th July 2021 - Wayfarer / Peak District Ultra Recce #5
Sat 14th August 2021 - Wayfarer (part of Peak District Trail Weekender)
Sun 15th August 2021 - Wayfarer (part of Peak District Trail Weekender)
Sat 23rd October 2021 - Wayfarer
Sat 6th November 2021 - Wayfarer
Sat 20th November 2021 - Wayfarer
Sat 18th December 2021 - Wayfarer
Sun 19th December 2021 - Wayfarer Lite
Tue 28th December 2021 - Festive Wayfarer
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South Derbyshire / National Forest Evening Trail Runs
Weekday runs on the wonderful trails of at the southern end of Derbyshire and in the National Forest. Runners at all paces are catered for and we're particularly keen to welcome anyone new to off-road running. You just need to be capable of running the advertised distance continuously on flatter terrain (walking the tougher hills on the trails is perfectly acceptable).
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Date to be confirmed
Winter Trail Night
6 miles from Ticknall
The first of this season's Winter Trail Night runs. We will start and finish at Ticknall on a run that will be around 10k (6 miles) in length. Previous night running experience is not essential and all paces are catered for. You just need to be comfortable with around an hour of continuous running (although on the night we will stop and regroup as necessary to keep everyone together).
A good quality head-torch is essential. Chest torches are acceptable but you will not be allowed to run with a hand-held torch.
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Meeting place is Ticknall Village Hall car park DE73 7JW
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Limited places: Must be booked in advance.
Due to the current Covid-19 Tier 3 restrictions, this run is only open to residents of Derbyshire.
£4
Forthcoming Attractions
for 2021
We have plans for plenty more evening runs in 2021, details of which are currently being finalised.
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Trail Therapy Runs
Our 'Trail Therapy' runs are a great way to improve your fitness, de-stress and have fun in wonderful surroundings. There are daytime and evening options, with sessions lasting around an hour; so covering between 6 & 8km at a relaxed pace.
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There may be a few hills but don't let that put you off as there is no pressure on these non-competitive runs. Power hiking the steeper hills is perfectively acceptable.
Sessions are ideal for beginners who have built up to 5k continuous running and want to take the next steps on their running journey, while also being suitable for more experienced runners wanting some relaxed miles out on the trails in a friendly group environment.
Being led by our UK Athletics licensed coaches/run leaders, Trail Therapy runs provide an opportunity to pick their brains on all aspects of training. They're great for your mental health and there's often an opportunity to relax and socialise over a coffee or cold drink after the run.
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bRUNch Club Trail Therapy
Every Thursday at 09:30am (plus new Tuesday bRUNch)
Regular weekday morning off-road runs on scenic trails at a 'chatty' pace.
The runs takes around an hour going at a pace that is comfortable for everyone in the group. Distances range from 6.5k to 8k. There are likely to be some moderate hills on most runs and you may encounter some muddy sections.
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We cater for all paces but we recommend that you are capable of running 5km (3 miles) continuously on flat terrain.
Covid-19 restrictions apply. Numbers are limited so must be booked and paid for in advance via the website.
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In addition, there are some important rules to follow, which can be found HERE
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CURRENT SCHEDULE IS AS FOLLOWS:
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NATIONAL FOREST:
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Thurs 1st April: 09:30 at Ticknall Village Hall, DE73 7JW
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Thurs 8th April: 09:30 at Ticknall Village Hall, DE73 7JW
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Thurs 15th April: 09:30 at Ticknall Village Hall, DE73 7JW
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Thurs 22nd April: 09:30 at Ticknall Village Hall, DE73 7JW
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Thurs 29th April: 09:30 at Ticknall Village Hall, DE73 7JW
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WEST MIDS/STAFFS:​​
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Tues 6th April: 09:30 at Springslade Lodge Cafe, Camp Road, Cannock, WS12 4PT*
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Tues 13th April: 09:30 at Hartopp car park, Sutton Park, Sutton Coldfield B74 2YU
*(Note: if using Sat Nav the location is approx half a mile north of where the post code will take you. Look for the 'Springslade Lodge Tea Room and Camping' sign on the left hand side of Camp Road in a northerly direction).​
£4
(or £3.50 with a regulars' pricing plan)
Derby Runner Trail Runs
The Derby Runner and Peak Running are excited to be hosting a regular series of trail runs based from the Derby Runner’s shop in Spondon.
These will provide a great opportunity to discover some wonderful routes in local countryside with a friendly and supportive group.
You will be guided by the very experienced team of coaches and run leaders from Peak Running, who will be able to provide tips and advice on all things off-road; including hill technique, structuring training, route planning, navigation and much more.
Plus, the shop will be open exclusively for the group before and after the run, so you’ll have the chance to browse the wide range of kit, get advice on what is right for you and be eligible for some exclusive discounts.
These runs will be open to runners of all abilities, but we particularly welcome those that are new to off-road running. All we ask that you’re capable of running the advertised distance; your pace isn’t important. If under 16, parent/guardian should contact us in advance to discuss suitability.
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Workshops
Trail & Fell Running Workshops
Fell Running Skills - coaching session & guided fell run
Next sessions 29th August & 24th October 2020
Want to try fell running but not sure where to start? Scared you’ll end up lost, last, or flat on your face?
Led by our coaching team, who have many years of fell running experience themselves, this practical session is for those new to fell running. It includes a guided run on a classic village fell race route in the Peak District and lots of information, advice and coaching input.
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During the session, which lasts around 3 hours, we cover:
• Top tips on the up-hills and downhills
• Chance to practice your footwork skills over lots of fell running terrain
• Demos and explanation of Fell Running Association (FRA) minimum kit and fell shoes
• Explanations of race categories and which are right for your ability level
• Basic navigation skills
• The chance to have a go at a classic village fell race route of approximately 5-miles (8km) in a non-competitive environment with knowledgeable leaders and a friendly group!
£19.70
On-Demand Guided Runs
We organise 'on-demand' runs to suit individuals or groups at times to suit you (subject to guide runner availability).
Below are details of some of the options we offer. Plus we can put on totally bespoke runs if you want something different.
Squeeze it into your day
60-90 mins (inclusive of breaks for photos etc.) covering between 4 & 7 miles, depending on the terrain.
If you are short of time, or do not have the fitness for one of the longer runs, this is the option for you. Perhaps you want to squeeze a run in before breakfast to leave the rest of the day free to spend with your family or at work, or run in the early evening to unwind after a busy day.
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£40 + £5 for each additional runner
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We may be able to reduce the cost per runner if we can hook you up with another group, as the base charge of £40 is shared amongst more people. Maximum group size is 15.
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Sample routes:
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Calke Abbey circuit: Grade 1
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Dash around Dovedale: Grade 2
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Chatsworth Deerstakler: Grade 2
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High Hopes: Grade 3
Half Day Adventure
3 - 4 hours (inclusive of breaks) and covering between 10 & 15 miles, depending on the terrain
If you are after a long run and/or want to explore a wider area, then the half day option is ideal. These can be organised in the morning or afternoon, leaving the rest of your day free for other things.
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A good level of fitness required and there are minimum kit requirements for the higher grade routes.
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£70 + £10 for each additional runner
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We may be able to reduce the cost per runner if we can hook you up with another group, as the base charge of £70 is shared amongst more people. Maximum group size is 12.
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Sample routes:
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Beyond the ancient capital of Mercia: Grade 2
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Tour of the Derwent Valley: Grade 3
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Dales, Moors and Mountains: Grade 3
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High lines and Skylines: Grade 4
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Full Day Adventure
5 - 7 hours (inclusive of breaks) and covering 15 – 20+ miles, depending on the terrain.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to challenge yourself, why not go for one of our full day adventures. These require a high level of fitness and will generally require you to carry drinks, food and additional kit to ensure your safety, particularly for the higher grade routes.
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£100 + £15 for each additional runner
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We may be able to reduce the cost per runner if we can hook you up with another group, as the base charge of £100 is shared amongst more people. Maximum group size is 10.
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Sample routes:
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The Bonnie Prince: Grade 3
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Derbyshire Capital to County Town: Grade 3
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Life on the Edges: Grade 4
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I Want Me Mam Tor: Grade 4
Grade 1
Grade 2
Grade 3
Grade 4
Run Grading
We use a simple grading system to give you an idea of the difficulty of the routes we use for our running adventures, in terms of the gradients and underfoot conditions.
Some gentle but runnable hills for anyone with a moderate level of fitness.
Some short sections with steep gradients but generally good underfoot conditions.
Some challenging hills and underfoot conditions, with rock, mud etc.
Challenging gradients and underfoot conditions. Some sections are difficult to run and there may be some scrambling.
Off-Road Taster Sessions
If you want to venture off-road for the first time or develop your skills for off-road running, our Taster sessions may be just what you’re looking for.
The kind of terrain can be whatever you choose, ranging from the local park or to cross-country trails through to remote mountain areas.
The service includes helping to plan a route suitable to your needs and level of fitness, advice on kit, etc., and an experienced off-road runner to accompany you during the run itself. Along the way we will do the route finding (or teach you how to do it), and provide practical advice and information to help you build the confidence to head out there on your own.
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We can arrange these for individuals, couples or small groups of up to 5 people.
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Location and timing of these sessions can be flexible to meet your needs. However, if we need to travel an excessive distance from our base in Derbyshire, it may incur an additional cost.
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Under 18’s must be accompanied and supervised at all times by a parent or guardian.
1 hour run:
£40 (+£5 for each additional runner)
Half day, up to 3 hours:
£70 (+10 for each additional runner)
Full day, up to 6 hours:
£100 (+£15 for each additional runners)
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The times shown are inclusive of sufficient breaks along the way to suit your level of fitness.