The Bob Graham Round

Run Strong Coaching: The Lake Districts Bob Graham Round

A True Mountain Running Challenge

Starting and finishing in the small village of Keswick in the Lake District, the circular route covers an impressive 106 kilometres (66 miles) with 8,300 metres of climbing, visiting 42 fell tops along the way. Completing a successful Bob Graham Round (BGR) is a monumental experience and achievement, and those who have done so should rightly be saluted, whether in summer or winter conditions. Summer attempts often benefit from longer daylight hours and milder weather.

At the same time, winter rounds present added challenges like snow-covered terrain, freezing temperatures, and limited visibility, making it a true test of endurance and navigation skills.

Over the years, the BG has seen a huge rise in popularity, becoming the pinnacle of mountain running in the UK. It’s not just a route; it’s a journey, a personal challenge, and a rite of passage for mountain runners. Most people attempt the round within the 24-hour target, with finish times typically ranging between 22 and 23.45 hours. The BGR has inspired its sister rounds, the Ramsay Round in Scotland and the Paddy Buckley Round in Wales, creating a trilogy that many dream of completing.

So why the Bob Graham Round

For many runners, the Bob Graham Round is more than just a challenge. It’s a test of endurance, navigation, and mental toughness. It combines the beauty and brutality of the fells into one epic journey. The Lake District provides a stunning but unforgiving backdrop with ever-changing weather, steep climbs, and rough terrain.

The challenge is unique to every individual. Some aim to complete it supported, while others go solo. Some push for the fastest known times and others just strive to cross the finish line within 24 hours. Whichever way you approach it, it will undoubtedly change you as a runner.

The magic of the BG is the combination of:

History and Heritage:

First completed by Bob Graham in 1932, the round has grown into a symbol of mountain running excellence. Knowing I was following in the footsteps of so many legends added a sense of purpose and pride during my attempts.

Community Spirit:

Whether attempting it solo, with pacers or supporting others, the camaraderie around the BG is unmatched. On both my attempts, the encouragement and stories shared with others were some of the most memorable parts of the journey.

A Personal Journey:

Completing the BG is not just about physical ability but about preparation, planning, and persistence. For me, this has been years in the making, testing my limits, refining my skills, and discovering what I’m truly capable of.

Jack Oliver

Jack, after a successful 20 hour Solo unsupported Winter BGR

My Journey to the Bob Graham Round

For me (Jack), the Bob Graham Round is something I’ve talked about and borderline obsessed over for the last 6 years since I first started running. It all began when someone at work mentioned it in passing. Three days later, I found myself heading up Clough Head, thinking, “How on earth is this possible?”

Fast forward a few years, and I completed my first BG as an anticlockwise supporter in 2022. That day opened my eyes to just how special the Bob Graham Round is – the team effort, the satisfaction of helping someone reach their goal, and the joy of running the fells for hours on end.

More recently, on Boxing Day 2023, I took on the challenge solo and unsupported. I’d been training hard, building up my legs and lungs, and on that day, everything aligned. The experience was unreal – tough, lonely at times, but ultimately rewarding beyond words. Both times I’ve been on the BG have undoubtedly been the best days I’ve had running in the Lake District. There’s nothing like it.

Preparing for the Bob Graham Round

Recce the Route

Getting to know each leg is a huge part of your BG journey. Breaking the round into smaller sections allows you to build confidence on the terrain, perfect your navigation, and plan your pacing. I’ll never forget tackling Leg 4 during my solo Boxing Day attempt – navigating the rocky paths around Pillar in the fading light was both a physical and mental test, but cresting the summit renewed my determination to push forward. Moments like these truly define the BG experience. Each leg has its challenges, from the steep climb of Yewbarrow to the technical descent off Great Gable.

At Run Strong Coaching, we specialise in Bob Graham Round preparation, offering BG recce days to help you master each section of the route for just £60 pp. Whether new to the fells or aiming to refine your approach, our BG-specific training days ensure you’re ready for what lies ahead. One of our clients, Sarah, shared how these recce days gave her the confidence to easily navigate challenging sections and complete her BG attempt. “The insights and support I received during the recce days were invaluable. It made all the difference on the day!”

Training for the Bob Graham Round

The BG demands a unique combination of endurance, strength, and mental toughness. My advice is to focus on:

Building Endurance: Long days on the hills, gradually increasing time and elevation.
Hill Work: Steep ascents and descents to strengthen your legs.
Navigation Skills: Practising with a map and compass is vital, especially if you’re aiming to run unsupported.
Strength and Conditioning: Preventing injuries and improving resilience for the hours of running ahead.

At Run Strong Coaching, we design bespoke training plans for anyone preparing for the Bob Graham Round. From complete beginners to experienced fell runners, we help you make the most of your training time.

The Magic of the Route

There’s something about the Bob Graham Round that makes it so much more than a run. It’s an adventure, a test, and a celebration of the Lake District fells. Whether you’re running under a golden sunrise on Blencathra or descending into the darkness towards Grey Knotts, every moment on the BG feels special.

Alongside the BG, the Lake District offers other fantastic rounds to explore, like the George Fisher Tea Round, which brings its unique challenges. Each round helps you grow as a runner, building strength, skill, and a deep connection to the hills.

Ready for the Bob Graham Round ?

If you’ve been inspired by the Bob Graham Round and want to take on the challenge, Run Strong Coaching is here to help. With years of experience running the fells and supporting BG attempts, we offer:

Bob Graham Recce Days: Get to know the route with expert guidance.
Bespoke BG Training Plans: Tailored to your fitness level and goals.
Support and Advice: From navigation tips to nutrition strategies.

The Bob Graham Round is more than just a run; it’s a journey that will stay with you for life. Start your BG story today.

Final Thoughts

Completing the Bob Graham Round has been a huge part of my journey as a runner, and it’s something I’m passionate about helping others achieve. The experience has taught me invaluable lessons about preparation, pacing, and mental resilience, which I now bring into my coaching.

By understanding the unique physical and mental demands of the BG, I can tailor training plans that help my clients build confidence in the fells, perfect their navigation, and ultimately achieve their own goals. Whether you’re dreaming of your first BG attempt or looking to improve on past efforts, the preparation, training, and adventure will shape you into a stronger, more resilient runner.

If you want to take on this incredible challenge, get in touch with Run Strong Coaching. Together, we can help you achieve your goals on the fells and beyond.

Jack Oliver | Run Strong Coaching
Specialists in Bob Graham Round Training and Recce Days