Christmas pudding is usually something to enjoy after dinner, but in the Lake District there's a rather more energetic way to earn one. The Great Langdale Christmas Pudding 10K returns on Saturday 12 December 2026, and runners hoping to secure the traditional festive treat have until midnight on Sunday 15 November to enter.

The popular December race takes place beneath the magnificent Langdale Pikes, with a 10K road course through one of the Lake District's most recognisable valleys. Now part of the Lakeland Trails programme, the event combines competitive running, spectacular mountain scenery and a generous helping of Christmas spirit.

Starting and finishing at the New Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, runners head along the valley towards Elterwater before making their way back through the surrounding countryside. The rolling course provides a mixture of climbs and descents, with towering Lakeland fells creating a dramatic backdrop throughout the race.

There's plenty of competitive tradition too. The 2025 event was won by Richard Anderson of Holmfirth Harriers in 34:48, while Coral Mowbray of Eden Runners led the women home in 43:27. But speed is only part of the attraction, with runners of different abilities returning each December for the scenery, atmosphere and seasonal celebrations.

Fancy dress is encouraged, adding Santa suits, elves and other Christmas characters to the colourful field. Prizes for the best costumes provide another incentive to embrace the occasion, although running 10K dressed as Father Christmas might present a challenge of its own.

And then there's the pudding. The organiser has confirmed that entrants wanting a Christmas pudding must register before midnight on 15 November. There's also a separate deadline of 17 November for ordering an event T-shirt, giving runners another reason to make their plans early.

With the race taking place on Saturday 12 December, Great Langdale offers a memorable way to begin the Christmas celebrations. 

Entries are open, and runners can secure their place through the runABC Race Hub.

Image courtesy Lakeland Trails.