The Bob in Five Days

Several of our guides here at Into the Hills have completed the iconic challenge that is a Bob Graham Round - in very different ways. We've got sub-24 hour completers, 24+ hour completers, and multi-day completers; we don't think the Bob is only for those who will fly around! We'd love to introduce you to this epic route, in a manageable and enjoyable way.

FAQs

What is the Bob Graham Round?

The 'Bob' is a classic Lake District challenge run, which many fell and trail runners aspire to test themselves against. It began life as an iteration of the 24-hour challenge, in which runners compete to see how many summits they can bag in 24 hours. While the 24-hour record (at time of writing) now stands at 78 peaks (male) and 68 peaks (female), Keswick hotelier Bob Graham's 42-peak completion in 1932 took on a life of its own. While for many the 'sub-24' is a cherished goal, at Into the Hills we believe this isn't the only way to enjoy this fantastic route (founder Jenny counts her 24:48 completion as her proudest achievement in running!).

What time will the trip start and end?

The trip is likely to begin on a Monday morning, and will end with a slightly shorter day on Friday to allow for onward travel (or, a celebratory group trip to the Round!).

Is this trip suitable for me?

The Bob Graham Round covers around 100k in distance and 8000m in elevation, summiting 42 distinct peaks. This trip will split the route into five days' running (the traditional five legs) - the biggest individual day is around 25k and 2000m. None of the route is pathless, but much of it is rough, grassy, rocky, muddy, boggy, open fell - you get the idea! We recommend that you have some experience of running and/or hiking in the Lakes, and are comfortable running on back to back days.

How far will we run?  And how fast?

Each day is slightly different in length, ranging between around 17k and around 25k. The greatest elevation gain in a single day will be around 2000m. 'Run' is a relative term! Most Bob completers hike the uphills and jog the downs (there aren't many flats), and 24-hour pace is approximately 4kph. We'd expect to be moving at around that pace or a little slower, meaning that our time on feet each day will be in the region of 5-7 hours.

What kit will I need?

We’ll send a kit list prior to the event, but there shouldn’t be much (if anything!) on it that you don’t already have.  You'll need standard fell running kit for the daytimes, and we'll transport an overnight bag for you so that you can bring comfortable clothes, your food for each day running, and overnight things.

What is included?

The cost of this trip is tbc, as accommodation costs will depend on dates. We estimate that it will be in the region of £1000 per person, which will include four nights' accommodation (shared rooms, potentially relatively basic!), baggage transfers, and five days guiding. Evening meals will not be included. The maximum group size will be four people.

Who will be leading the trip?

This adventure will be guided by one of the fantastic Into the Hills team: Rachel, Pip, Bryony, Luke, Abi and Heidi.

How do I book?

We'll run this trip by demand. It is likely to take place across Monday to Friday during the summer months. For now, if you'd be keen to take part (dates and cost pending), please RSVP below. We'll be in touch as and when there is enough interest to arrange dates. Earlier RSVPs will help us make this happen - accommodation (and our guides!) will get booked up. Please note that once booked, this trip would be subject to our usual cancellation policy (See FAQ page), but you're not committing yourself to anything by RSVP-ing!

Practical notes

1. While the Bob Graham route is the objective for this trip; we will always take into account the weather forecast and the pace of the group when making route decisions, and in poor weather would use alternative routes.

2. Payment by installment will be available.

3. Accommodation for this trip will be in shared, same-gender rooms.  If you have a need or a preference for a private room, please let us know when you RSVP so we can let you know what the additional costs would be.

4. Travel and accommodation arrangements before and after the trip are not included; you will need to arrange your own transport to and from Keswick, and accommodation before and after the trip if required.  If driving, seven-day parking permits are available for the Lake District National Park car parks in Keswick.