Race the Tide, the wild all-terrain obstacle race set in the grounds of the historic Muncaster Castle, is ‘changing the game’ as it is fast becoming more than just a sporting event.

Running from August 8–10, this year’s event brings together hundreds of adventurers to tackle a gruelling (and joyful) 10K course filled with river crossings, rope bridges, mud crawls and woodland scrambles, all before the tide comes in.

But Race the Tide is about more than just endurance, it’s about experience.

“In a time when rural communities are struggling to keep young people engaged and attract sustainable tourism, events like this are changing the game,” says Ewan Frost-Pennington, founder and member of the family who has called Muncaster Castle home for over 800 years.

“It’s immersive, local, a little bit mad, and it brings people back year after year.”

Not only do competitors get to Race the Tide it is part of a weekend-long celebration that surrounds it.

With camping, local food vendors, live music, a traditional ceilidh, and firepits to gather around after a long, muddy run, it offers an experience deeply rooted in the local culture and landscape.

This isn’t just drawing in seasoned athletes – it’s attracting a whole new generation of participants.

Young people in their late teens, twenties, and thirties, many of whom might not usually visit a rural area like this, are turning out in force.

The festival offers a rare chance to step away from screens, connect face-to-face, and feel part of something real.

“Even if you come on your own, you won’t leave that way, people leave with muddy shoes and new friends,” says Ewan.

“It’s about community, shared challenge, and just having an epic time outdoors.”

The course weaves through ancient woodland, castle grounds, and tidal estuaries, immersing participants in the untamed beauty of the western Lake District.

“It’s not about medals or personal bests, though the medal is sustainably made from our own wood,” says Ewan.

“It’s about the sheer joy of movement in nature, community spirit – and maybe a bit of mud up your nose.”

Want to Join the Tide?

The race weekend stars on Friday, August 8, with the race being run on Saturday.

Tickets for the festival can be bought here