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Coledale Horseshoe Trail Running Route: 14km Lake District Loop

A 13.6km circular trail running route from Braithwaite village / Coledale start area a classic Lake District mountain horseshoe from Braithwaite over the Coledale skyline and high north-western fells, with around 1,157m of climbing and a highest point of 841m.
13.6km

Distance

1157m

Elevation Gain

2.9 hours to 3.8 hours running / 5.2 to 7.1 hours walking

Estimated Time

Difficulty

Distance Band

Route Map

Details
Coledale Horseshoe

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About this route

This Coledale Horseshoe trail running route is a circular loop from Braithwaite village / Coledale start area, built from the supplied GPX file and suitable for runners who are comfortable on mixed trail terrain.

The GPX measures approximately 13.6km with around 1,157m of elevation gain and reaches a highest point of about 841m. This is a proper mountain route with steep climbing, rocky ridges and exposed high ground. In clear weather it is one of the best compact horseshoe runs in the northern Lakes.

Use the GPX for navigation, carry appropriate kit for the distance and weather, and always check local access, parking and public transport details before travelling.

Route Features

At a Glance

📍 Start:Braithwaite, Keswick

Getting there

Start Point

Braithwaite, Keswick
CA12 5SY

Parking

Start from Braithwaite village or the Coledale start area. Use signed public parking only, avoid blocking narrow village roads, and expect parking to be limited at busy times.

Public Transport

Braithwaite is close to Keswick, with bus connections in the wider Keswick and Whinlatter area. Check current Lake District bus timetables before travelling.

Toilets

There may not be toilets at the immediate GPX start. Use Keswick or local facilities before travelling, and check current public toilet availability in Braithwaite.

Nearest Town

Keswick

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What's underfoot

Expect mountain paths, rocky ridges, fell paths, scree, steep climbs, moorland, short road sections. The route has approximately 1,157m of climbing over 13.6km, so pace should be adjusted for terrain, weather and navigation.

Best Seasons

Navigation Difficulty

Braithwaite, Keswick

Weather Notes

Avoid poor visibility, high winds and heavy rain on exposed or high-level sections. Paths may be slippery, boggy or harder to follow after prolonged wet weather.

Recommended Equipment

Trail shoes are strongly recommended for this route. Here’s what we’d suggest.

Recommended kit for this route

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Before, during & after

Water

Carry your own water. Natural water sources should not be relied upon unless treated/filtered, and facilities may be limited or seasonal.

Shops Nearby

Keswick has the best nearby shops, outdoor stores and food options. Braithwaite has pub options close to the route.

Post-Run Recommendation

The Royal Oak or Coledale Inn in Braithwaite are convenient post-run options, with more choice in nearby Keswick.

How to run it

Route Steps (route_steps repeater)
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Follow the well-signed footpath from the car park.
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Before you go

⚠ Safety Notes

Follow the GPX closely and carry a map/backup navigation. Conditions can change quickly on open fell, moorland or mountain ground. Take extra care on wet rock, boggy sections, steep descents and road crossings. Let someone know your plan for longer or more remote routes. For this route, carry full mountain running kit, extra layers, food, water, a charged phone and an emergency plan.

🌦 Weather Notes

Avoid poor visibility, high winds and heavy rain on exposed or high-level sections. Paths may be slippery, boggy or harder to follow after prolonged wet weather.

Local knowledge

💡 Local Tip

Start early for quieter trails and easier parking. Check weather and daylight before setting off, especially outside summer. The best experience is usually in a settled dry spell when the views are clear and the paths are less boggy.

🧭 Navigation Difficulty

Frequently Asked Questions

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More routes nearby

Trail Art · Monetisation · Nice to have

Trail Art

Route Trail Poster

A hand-illustrated trail map poster of this route — perfect for your home or as a gift for a fellow runner. Printed on 300gsm card.

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