Dubbed as the UK’s ‘fastest-growing ultra’ run, not to mention perfect for beginners looking to get into the craze, and its picturesque setting is located more than an hour and a half away in the Lakes.
Revolving around one of Britain’s most beautiful National Parks, you can get there in less than 90 minutes, and it’s also easily reachable via public transport if you’re willing to make the journey.
Let’s be honest, if you’re the kind of person who enjoys running long distances, a few hours on trains and buses is a drop in the ocean.
Founded in 2023, the Altra 13 Valleys Ultra over in the Lake District has seen a bigger attendance every year, with a 60% increase in registrations year-on-year, and with such stunning scenery to take in whilst trekking through the hills, it’s no wonder.
The trail and ultra marathon phenomenon is one that, rather fittingly, looks to be constantly on the up, with seemingly a huge uptake not just here in Greater Manchester but across the country in general.
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A great sport to take up early and often turned to later in life, the benefits go without saying; then, taking into account events in places as gorgeous as this World UNESCO Heritage Site, it’s no wonder this particular race is seeing even bigger crowds.
Ticking off famous Wainwrights and other bucket list destinations like Borrowdale, Buttermere, Coniston, Langdale and Ullswater; the Theatre finish line at Keswick, and of course, Windermere, plenty simply turn to the 13 Valleys Ultra for the views and accessibility – especially if you live here in the North West.
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We don’t need to tell you how jaw-dropping the Cumbrian landscape can be at times, but the promotion hosted by beloved running brand Altra really has put together a wonderful whirlwind tour of the region that you can enjoy on foot.
Credit: Press shot (supplied via Altra/Get the Affect)
Now into its fourth year, with people already gearing up for 2027, too, it’s fair to say that this is fast becoming one of the most in-demand trail races on the national circuit and endurance calendar.
Speaking to The Manc, Event Director Colin Murphy told us: “Not everyone wants to tackle 100 miles, and that’s exactly why the 2 Valleys has become such an exciting part of the Altra 13 Valleys Ultra weekend.
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“It’s an adventure that’s within reach for so many people, runners and walkers alike, giving them the chance to experience the incredible Lake District, soak up the event atmosphere and challenge themselves in a completely new way. We want people to realise that ultra and trail events aren’t just for elite athletes; the 2 Valleys proves there’s a place for everyone on the start line.’”
That being said, walkers are also welcome, of course, and they also have shorter variations for those just starting out on the trail scene or looking for an easier race, but we’ll get on to that in a minute…
We’re always blown away by the people who can add elevation into already big enough tests; for instance, this bloke is taking on the biggest mountain in England as part of a wider charity challenge.
It’s worth noting that you don’t need to do the ‘full thing’, as the organisers offer four different routes when it comes to length, with total distances ranging from 22 kilometres and going all the way up to a whopping 180km. Gulp.
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George Thorpe – long-distancerunner, 33, who is taking on the 2026 challenge –is following in his fiancée and former participant’s footsteps, insisting that running has shown him he’s “stronger than I ever imagined”, while also providing an escape into nature, improving mental wellbeing and introducing him to a supportive community that encourages everyone to achieve more than they think possible.
The 22k/half-marathon version is a super popular choice, having already sold 70% of their entire allocation for this year, as you get a little bit of everything: an ideal intro to trail running, a mix of road and trail, the scenic course, a great crowd of mixed abilities, and once again, walking is encouraged.
So whether you’re an ultra-marathon addict, a runner looking to make things up, or just a rambler looking to cop a medal for your next outing, keep Friday, 25 – Sunday, 27 September 2026 free in your calendar.
You can find out more about the Altra 13 Valleys Ultra, see if any of them suit you, and sign up for the 2026 edition right HERE.
Featured Images — Publicity pictures (supplied via Get the Affect)
Sport
Why so many are excited by the Irish teenager being monitored by Man City, United and more
Danny Jones
The next generation of Irish football is looking brighter, and there’s one particular young striker currently playing in the Republic of Ireland’s Premier Men’s Division that’s reportedly attracting interest from the likes of Manchester City, Man United, Chelsea and more.
Still just a teenager and having barely just broken into senior football, Michael Noonan is the youth player presently starring for Shamrock Rovers FC at just 18 years old.
Anyone who followed their recent run in the UEFA Conference League last year will know the kind of box office moments he’s already supplied fans of the South Dublin side, but he’s still a relatively new and somewhat unknown quantity to most, and one that’s already on the radar of some big clubs.
But just to put things into perspective, Irish football journalist Darryl Geraghty has gone so far as to dub him as “probably the hottest prospect in Irish football right now.” Here are just some of the reasons why…
Speaking to Betway (who have ironically just been announced as United’s new principal partner and official sponsor for their training gear), the sports writer said the increasing number of suitors floating in and around the youngster at such a crucial stage in his career comes as no surprise.
Turning 18 last month, the former St Patrick’s Athletic academy graduate is now free to entertain deals from other suitors, with the likes of Arsenal, Everton, Nottingham Forest, Ajax and ‘several’ others claimed to be circling his signature; Noonan is already said to have visited the Dutch giants for talks.
“A who’s who of European football are vying for his signature and it’s easy to see why”, says Geraghty. “Natural goalscorers are incredibly difficult to find, and Michael has that instinctive ability that elite clubs are always searching for.
“He doesn’t need five chances to score one goal. He has that natural striker’s knack of arriving in the right place at the right time, while his movement and pace off the shoulder constantly ask questions of defenders.”
“What’s impressed me most is how much his all-round game has developed. He’s become more involved in build-up play and is learning how to affect games even when he’s not scoring, which is essential for modern forwards.”
He also reiterated to Betway that “perhaps the most impressive thing is how unfazed he seems by the attention and expectation around him”, adding that “talent gets you noticed, but mentality is what convinces clubs to invest in a young player.”
Having helped ‘The Hoops’ to lift another title and a domestic cup, as well as growing an even wider experience base by representing his country in the national team’s youth ranks – most recently at the highly competitive under-21s level – this year could be a big turning point in his career.
Naturally, comparisons to the likes of Robbie Keane have already been drummed up, especially given how much talent he’s already shown at such an early age.
It’s “not because they’re identical players”, clarifies, “but because of the intelligence of his movement, his instinct for goals and his ability to fit into almost any attacking system.”
You only have to see some of his highlights for the resurgent Rovers to see his neat footwork in tight spaces and ability to drive into the right areas with conviction.
According to Geraghty, it’s merely “a matter of when rather than if“, and whoever snaps him up (more likely in the January window, it has been suggested) will be signing “one of the most exciting young strikers Ireland has produced in years.”
You can see his thrilling European debut performances against Norwegian side Molde FK down below.
At only 16, he became the youngest scorer in the competition’s history.
Former Man United coach under Sir Alex Ferguson joins Stockport County in director role
Danny Jones
Former Manchester United coach René Meulensteen, who famously worked under Sir Alex Ferguson, has been appointed to a new role at Stockport County FC.
Joining the club in an unprecedented position – the terminology for which has definitely sparked some speculation – the Dutch coach arrives at Edgeley Park during a period of big changes across the board.
Not only serving under Sir Alex, but also having managed Fulham for a spell and helping steer Iraq to their first World Cup since 1986 this summer as assistant, he brings a varied pedigree to SK3.
Announcing the news on Monday evening, Meulensteen has already set about his introductions to the squad and the rest of the coaching staff this week.
Starting out as a Skills Development Coach in Man United‘s youth academy, helping develop reserve players on their way into the senior setup, he then went on to work at Danish side Brøndby, over in Russia, as part of the Australian national team, and, of course, a second stint at Old Trafford.
With this being a brand-new role not only for Stockport County but one boasting a unique title which presents plenty of questions, it will be interesting to see just how much of an imprint he can have on the first team.
Sporting Director Damien Allen said in a statement: “This appointment represents another important step in delivering our long-term vision, reinforcing our commitment to creating an elite football department, developing players and coaches capable of competing at the highest levels of the game.”
Writing on his own X account, the 62-year-old is clearly relishing the opportunity to carve out a path through this unique new role.
Moreover, the reaction to his name being now tied to the club has been one of excitement and optimism given his CV and well-documented career history.
Just shows the ambition at this club, you've worked with some of the worlds best & can't imagine the wealth of knowledge & experience you're bringing with you, its a pleasure to have you on board
Speaking on his arrival, new Hatters boss Jimmy McNulty – who is set to embark on his debut season as manager of the club after leaving Rochdale AFC this summer – added: “It is a genuine pleasure to be adding a coach of René Meulensteen’s calibre to our coaching team.
“Having operated at the very highest level, guided elite players, and gained invaluable experience across diverse footballing cultures in both domestic leagues and major international tournaments, he brings a tremendous breadth of wisdom and perspective to our coaching team.
“This brilliant addition adds another layer of strength to our coaching collective, and I am delighted René has decided to join our County team.”
What do you make of the appointment, County fans? We’ll admit, we particularly enjoyed the reaction by club legend Ben Hinchliffe fresh from his testimonial match…
🗣️ "I have no idea what that job title means!" 🤣
Ben Hinchliffe on Stockport County's new Director of Football Methodology Rene Meulensteen.
Danny Jones -
14th July 2026 
