Hikers took to the Lakes for an international long-distance event series, the first of which to happen in the UK.

The event, called Highlander, saw an impressive attendance from July 5 to 9, and included hikers from the UK, Latvia, the UAE, Maldives, Croatia, Portugal, Austria, the Netherlands, Norway, Serbia, and the USA.

This year’s event was divided into two formats: a 99km five-day journey called Hercules, and a 56km three-day journey called Pegasus.

CEO of Highlander, Jurica Barac, said: “The enthusiasm, determination and camaraderie displayed by the participants were truly inspiring.

“It was a privilege to witness individuals pushing their limits, cheering each other on and embracing the spirit of adventure amidst the extraordinary natural beauty of the Lake District.

“I’m already looking forward to coming back to the Lake District next year to build on the success of this year’s event.”

Hiking routes included visits to Great Langdale, Borrowdale, Ullswater, Aira Force, Fairfield, High Raise, Steel Fell, and other places, which Highlander said the beauty of which was attributed to the event’s success.

The event also ran in partnership with DIRT Charity, a climate change charity, and Highlander pledged to donate £1 for each kilometre hiked in total to Demeter, an eco-farming charity.

Alongside plans to build on the success of its Lakes event series to return to the Lake District next summer, Highlander has upcoming events later this year in Croatia, the USA Italy, North Macedonia, Spain, Slovenia, and Georgia, and the ambition is to expand its reach to seven new countries through 2024.