The Three Peaks Race: Celebrating 70 Years of Fell Running History

The Three Peaks Race is more than just a run—it’s a legendary test of endurance, grit, and a love affair with the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales. As the event marks its 70th anniversary in 2025, it stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit of fell running, attracting both elite competitors and passionate amateurs eager to take on one of the sport’s most iconic challenges.

A Race Like No Other

Dubbed “The Marathon with Mountains,” the Three Peaks Race weaves through 23.3 miles (37.4 km) of stunning yet brutal terrain, climbing a staggering 1,608 meters (5,276 feet) as runners conquer the towering summits of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough. The race, held annually since 1954 (barring disruptions from foot-and-mouth disease and the COVID-19 pandemic), has cemented itself as a pinnacle of the fell running calendar.

To complete the course, runners must contend with everything the Dales can throw at them, boggy trails, steep ascents, rocky descents, and often unpredictable weather. The reward? An experience that blends raw physical exertion with breathtaking natural beauty, all under the watchful gaze of these three mighty peaks.

The Course: A Journey Through the Heart of the Dales

• Pen-y-Ghent (694m) – The first climb comes quickly after the start in Horton-in-Ribblesdale, a steep ascent up the well-worn Pennine Way. The descent is fast and technical, setting the tone for the race ahead.

• Whernside (736m) – The highest of the three peaks, Whernside looms large after the long run past Ribblehead Viaduct. Runners must dig deep to reach its summit before tackling a demanding downhill stretch towards Bruntscar.

• Ingleborough (723m) – The final climb is arguably the most punishing. Fatigue is setting in, but the sense of achievement upon reaching the summit is unmatched. The descent is a lung-busting dash back to Horton, where the finish line (and a well-earned rest) awaits.

With cut-off times ensuring runners stay on pace, the Three Peaks Race is as much a battle against the clock as it is against the course. Those who make it to the finish earn not just a place in the results but a lifelong connection to a truly historic event.

The Beauty of the Three Peaks

Beyond the challenge, the Three Peaks Race offers an unrivalled showcase of the Yorkshire Dales’ raw beauty. From the sweeping views atop each summit to the lush valleys and iconic Ribblehead Viaduct, every step of the race is a reminder of why this landscape is so beloved. The shifting weather, mist rolling in over Whernside or the sun breaking through the clouds on Ingleborough, only adds to the drama and the magic.

A Celebration of 70 Years

The 70th anniversary of the Three Peaks Race is more than just another milestone—it’s a celebration of the runners, volunteers, and supporters who have made the event what it is today.

To mark the occasion, the 2025 edition introduces a Relay Race, allowing teams of six to tackle the challenge together, and Junior Races, ensuring the next generation of fell runners get their taste of the Three Peaks experience.

The event’s longevity is a testament to its prestige and the enduring appeal of fell running. Generations of athletes have toiled up and down these hills, etching their names into the race’s storied history. Some return year after year, unable to resist the pull of the peaks.

VOOM Nutrition: Fuelling Your Three Peaks Challenge

Tackling an ultra-distance race with over 1,600m of elevation gain requires careful fuelling, and VOOM Nutrition will be on hand in partnership with Pete Bland Sports to provide the energy and endurance support runners need.

As the official nutritional partner, we understand the unique demands of mountain racing, where fast-absorbing energy and sustained fuel sources are essential. Whether you're powering up Pen-y-Ghent, battling fatigue on Whernside, or making that final push to Ingleborough, having the right nutrition can make all the difference.

VOOM Nutrition’s Essential Picks for Three Peaks Runners:

🔋 Pocket Rocket Energy Bars – Soft chew energy blocks that provide a fast, reliable energy boost, ideal for fuelling before, during and a boost when you need it.

🥤 Fusion Fuel 90g Carb Energy Drink – A high-carb energy drink to keep glycogen levels topped up during the race.

🌱 POW® Plant Endurance Bars – Slow-releasing energy bars designed for endurance events, perfect for pre-race and steady fuelling.

💪 VOOM Recovery Fudge – A delicious, protein-packed treat to help muscles recover post-race.

For those looking to fine-tune their race-day nutrition, we recommend testing your VOOM fuelling strategy in training. And if you haven’t already, try our FREE Taster Pack using the code THREEPEAKS at checkout!

Join the Legacy

For those who love the mountains, the Three Peaks Race is more than just a race, it’s a rite of passage. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, aiming just to finish, or spectating from the sidelines, the event embodies the true spirit of endurance sport: pushing limits, embracing nature, and sharing the journey with a community bound by adventure.

As the 70th edition approaches, one thing is certain, the Three Peaks Race remains as thrilling, as demanding, and as awe-inspiring as ever. Here’s to the next 70 years!

You can learn more here.