For the most up to date information, visit the Fells Marathin website on https://www.fellsmarathon.org.uk/events/379/fells-marathon-2023

The Fells Marathon is a two-day hiking competition for Scouts and Explorer Scouts. Carrying full kit for the two days, the Scout teams walk around 20 miles while the Explorer Scout teams walk about 26 miles. Overnight the teams cater for themselves on a remote site monitored by event staff – no leaders or team supporters are permitted there. It is a test of navigation, camping skills and endurance. 

Event History

The idea came to create a similar event for scouts, to challenge them to survive 2 days carrying all they need and navigate a route against the clock, from this the Haltemprice Scouts Fells Marathon was born.

The event has now run for over 40 years and has changed with the times but still carries it original ethos. The event now has an average of 30 teams from both Scouts & Explorers.

The Event Today

Originally the event was organised by both John and Dave. Today The Fells Marathon is run by the FELLS MARATHON COMMITTEE a group of 20 scouters headed by Neal Ingram.

The maximum entry is 35 teams. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis with entry fee and ALL forms securing places.

Who can take part?

The event is open to both Scouts 10yrs-14yrs and Explorer Scouts 14yrs-18yrs with separate routes for each age group. The scouts walk 30km and explorers 43km over the 2 days, with a remote camp at the end of Saturday. The event is split into 3 categories as shown below:

Fells Lite: 

• Minimum Age : 10
• Maximum Age: Under 13

Scouts: 

• Minimum Age 11.5
• Maximum Age: 14.5

Explorer Scouts:

• Minimum Age:13.5 
• Maximum Age: Under 18

Network:

• Minimum Age:18
• Maximum Age: Under 25

Note:  Participants must have reached the category age on the date of the event. Participants must be below the maximum age at the start of the event. Where a birthday takes place on the Saturday or Sunday of the Fells weekend they are considered below the age cut off for the whole event. (POR 4.7L refers)

Closing Date for Entries

23 March 2023

Further Information, Event Rules and Booking Forms

See booklet for more information. Booking forms etc can be downloaded below.

Event Maps

OS Explorer 297 – Lower Wharfedale and Washburn Valley
OS Explorer 298 – Nidderdale

Downloads

• Fells Marathon 2023 Booklet 
• Fells Marathon Consent and Medical Form (PDF Version) 
• Fells Marathon Consent and Medical Form (Word Version) 
• Fells Marathon 2023 Entry Form (Word Version).doc 
• Fells Marathon 2023 Entry Form (PDF Version).pdf 
• Leaders Food Menu.pdf