Keswick Half Marathon returns on Sunday 20 September 2026, starting at 11am in Portinscale and finishing at Keswick Rugby Club. This guide is designed for runners, supporters and visitors who simply need to know what the race means for getting around Keswick and Derwentwater.
Quick race-day facts
- Race HQ: Keswick Rugby Club, Davidson Park.
- Number collection: 9am-10.30am Sunday.
- Same-day entry: 9am-10am, +£5, subject to the 1,000-runner limit.
- Start: 11am, just beyond Portinscale suspension bridge.
- Finish: Keswick Rugby Club.
- Distance: 13 miles 192.5 yards.
- Elevation gain: about 367m.
- Prize giving: 2.15pm.
Do not go straight to the start for registration
Registration and number collection are at Keswick Rugby Club. The organiser asks runners to begin walking to Portinscale at 10.30am. It takes roughly 20 minutes and the route is marshalled.
Roads stay open
This is an open-road race. There is no blanket road closure around Derwentwater. Drivers should expect runners and marshals, slow down and avoid unnecessary overtaking. Runners must follow the organiser's side-of-road instructions.
Where to park
The rugby club advertises about 200 spaces at £5. If those fill, Central Car Park and Lakeside Car Park are established long-stay options. Bell Close has a shorter maximum daytime stay, so check the tariff before using it for a race-day visit.
Where does the course go?
From Portinscale the course heads into Newlands Valley, beneath Catbells, along the western side of Derwentwater to Grange, then back towards Keswick through Borrowdale.
For spectators
Choose one sensible base rather than trying to leapfrog runners by car. Keswick, Portinscale and the finish area provide the simplest options. Keep junctions, driveways and narrow roads clear.
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