The Whaley Waltz Fell Race returns to Whaley Bridge on Saturday 27 June 2026 as part of the annual Whaley Bridge Carnival celebrations. Organised by Goyt Valley Striders, the long established event continues to attract fell runners from across the Peak District and North West for a fast and highly runnable summer fell race.

Starting shortly before the carnival parade, the 5.8 mile course features around 900 feet of climbing across trails, fields and moorland above Whaley Bridge. The route climbs towards Taxal Edge and Windgather before a rapid descent back towards the town, finishing with the race’s well known river crossing twist near the end.

Although relatively short by fell running standards, the Whaley Waltz packs plenty into the route with steep climbs, flowing descents and technical sections that reward confident downhill running. The combination of runnable terrain and sharp elevation changes makes it attractive for experienced fell runners as well as road and trail runners looking to try mountain racing.

The race has become a popular part of the local running calendar thanks to its strong community atmosphere and carnival setting. Spectators line sections of the route and the finish area becomes part of the wider Whaley Bridge celebrations throughout the afternoon.

Race HQ is based at Whaley Bridge Bowling Club, with registration and number collection taking place on race day. Organisers also continue to encourage sustainable travel, offering drinks vouchers for runners who arrive by public transport, active travel or larger car shares.

Profits from the event are donated to local charities, with recent editions supporting both the Thomas Theyer Foundation and Whaley Bridge Carnival. 

Entries are now open for the 2026 race via niftyentries.

Image courtesy Goyt Valley Striders on flickr