Keswick's Lakesman triathlon named the best-reviewed race in the world

Every June, Keswick becomes a magnet for triathletes, and the town's flagship race has earned a global accolade. The Lakesman triathlon was named Racecheck's Best of the Best triathlon, the top-rated race on the endurance sports review site.

The award was drawn from more than 100,000 athlete reviews on the platform. Lakesman's 2024 reviews averaged 4.96 stars, making it the best-reviewed triathlon race in the world. For a race organised in a market town of Keswick's size, competing against famous events around the globe, it is a remarkable achievement and a tribute to everyone involved, from the organisers to the marshals who stand out on the course in all weathers.

Behind the event is Lakesman Events Ltd, a local family business that organises the race each year in partnership with Cumberland Council and the leisure operator Better. Marie Whitehead has been named as event director and Phil Whitehead as race director.

The course makes the most of its surroundings. Athletes begin with a swim in Derwentwater before heading out on the bike into the western Lake District, then run past Skiddaw towards the finish at Keswick Rugby Club.

The half-distance race combines a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride and a lapped half marathon in and around Keswick, with relay, aquabike and bike-and-run options for those who prefer a different challenge. A full-distance race is also part of the Lakesman offering.

The 2026 edition took place on 21 June, with temporary road closures and parking restrictions in place around the town to keep competitors safe.

For Keswick, the race brings a welcome boost each summer, as athletes, families and supporters fill the town's guest houses, cafés and shops. Spectators line the route through the town, and the atmosphere at the finish is a big part of what keeps competitors coming back.

The strength of those reviews speaks to the care that goes into the event, from the organisation on race day to the welcome from volunteers and locals along the course.

The Lakesman is scheduled to return to Keswick on 20 June 2027. Entry details and race information are published on the Lakesman website.