A Paddle, a Pedal & a Wander
Montbell presents Lake to Fell, a zero-pressure, human-powered, 35km lakeland loop using paddles, pedals, and feet.
On the weekend of 12-13th September 2026 we brought 100 people together in Borrowdale for the first-ever Lake to Fell. It was a chance to experience this special corner of Lake District landscape through a combination art, learning and movement.
Too much of our time outside is spent pursuing goals. For this weekend we asked people to put those ambitions to one side, and instead to notice what was around them and move at their own pace from Lake to Fell (and back again).
It was playful. It was challenging (Saturday’s rain and that climb to Whinlatter, anyone?). It was peaceful and occasionally chaotic. But most of all, it was fun.
First editions are always an adventure. Thank you to everyone who trusted us, came along and made this one everything it was. We hope it’s the start of something special.
What exactly is Lake to Fell?
Lake to Fell draws inspiration from Montbell’s long-running ‘SEA TO SUMMIT’ event series in Japan. The first UK edition took place in Borrowdale, in the Lake District, close to Montbell UK's home in Keswick.
The two-day event was centred around Hollows Farm Campsite. The event opened on Saturday afternoon with a series of talks and workshops exploring Lakeland nature, culture, and environmental issues. This was followed by a 35km paddle, bike and hike event on Sunday.
It isn’t a race. There was no timing, no tracking and no pacing. This was an opportunity to get out in the fells with good people and move at your own pace, tracing the Borrowdale landscape from Lake to Fell.
The Nature Sessions
Drawn Outdoors with Jeff Bowman
Guided art-making through the Borrowdale Valley, using pencil and charcoal to observe and respond to the landscape, the history and the story of Keswick’s graphite mines and the pencils they produced.
Noticing Nature with Miscellaneous Adventure
A short, guided walk through the Borrowdale Valley exploring local plants, habitats, edible species and folklore, while learning to notice the details and connections in the landscape.
Nofude Calligraphy with Rika Suzuki
An exploration of the ancient art of Japanese calligraphy using the Montbell Nofude outdoor calligraphy set.
Japanese Tea with Cha-Ology
We discovered the art of Japanese tea through a slow and sensory experience. Working directly with tea farmers, producers, and ceramicists, Cha-ology brought their hard work and stories to our guests.
Fell to Fabric with Nana Frank
We customised tote bags using a natural dye with Frankie from plants gathered in the Borrowdale Valley.
Forest Food Studio
Cumbrian caterers Forest Food Studio provided a camp meal for all participants on Saturday night. Cooked over open flame, it was a combination of Japanese flavours and local produce.
Fell Brewery
Fell Brewery is a small independent brewery based in South Cumbria who provided the refreshments. From its home on the Cartmel Peninsula, Fell combines a forward-thinking approach to brewing with a respect for the rich traditions of the North.
