Montane Winter Spine

Before you make plans

On 3 October 2026 the page said the race was sold out and offered a waiting list. A waiting list is not a place. This is the wrong profile for a first ultra.

One winter week, not a first step

The race page lists a start at 08:00 on 10 January 2027 in Edale, Derbyshire, and a finish by 20:00 on 16 January in Kirk Yetholm. The distance is 268 miles, about 431 km. The time limit is 156 hours. Ascent is given as 10,732 m, and daylight in January as 8 hours. The page also lists 150 places.

The same page says this is not beginner friendly. You must be 21 or over. A mountain, hill or moorland ultra over 100 miles, or a previous Montane Spine Challenger finish, qualifies you for the full race. Other experience can be considered, especially if it includes mountains, moorland and navigation. The organisers can reject an order.

On 3 October 2026 the page said the race was sold out and pointed people to a waiting list. The published fee is £1,345, with a £600 deposit and the remaining £745 due 100 days before the start. Read the terms before you pay a deposit.

You are expected to stay on the Pennine Way

The 2027 terms say you must remain on the Pennine Way unless the organiser diverts you to a checkpoint. If you get lost, or make a significant navigation error and gain an advantage, you may receive a time penalty. The terms also say you may need basic navigation and map and compass reading.

The race page calls the event unsupported. Cafes and pubs along the route are allowed, and unplanned food from local people is described as acceptable. Pacing, planned support and a private vehicle following you are not. If you stop for more than an hour, the terms say to find a signal and contact race headquarters.

Checkpoints are shelter, not a second race

The race page says hot meals, hot and cold drinks, somewhere to sleep, and your resupply bag are offered at the main checkpoints. It names Birchcliffe, Hawes, Hardraw, Langdon Beck, Alston and Bellingham, while the heading says five. Use the race information pack for the list you will actually follow. Showers are mentioned at Hawes, Alston and Bellingham.

The terms say the organisers are not qualified to tell you that you are fit to start, and that you should get advice from your doctor before participating. They also warn that if you stop early, transport and accommodation may be yours to sort out.