Top 16 Mountain Passes around Allerdale

For an extreme driving challenge, Hardknott Pass is renowned as one of Britain's steepest roads, with gradients up to 1 in 3 and demanding hairpin bends. Its continuous route, Wrynose Pass, also features exceptionally steep and narrow sections, requiring careful navigation. Both are frequently closed in winter due to ice.

Yes, Whinlatter Pass is an excellent choice for families and those seeking a less severe route. It winds through England's only true mountain forest, offering a sheltered environment with a visitor centre, nature trails, and family-friendly activities like the Wildplay project and Zog Activity Trail. It's also suitable for wheelchair users and buggies on some paths.

Near Hardknott Pass, you can explore the well-preserved remains of the Hardknott Roman Fort, built around AD 110, offering a glimpse into Roman history and commanding views. On Wrynose Pass, the historic Three Shire Stone marks the former meeting point of three counties, and remnants of the old Roman road are still visible. The Newlands Valley, accessible via Newlands Pass, also has a history of mining, including the famous Goldscope mine.

Allerdale offers several challenging climbs popular with cyclists. Honister Pass Climb from Gatesgarth is known for its imposing and consistently steep sections, making it a notable segment for cyclists. Whinlatter Pass Climb from Braithwaite offers a steady ascent on forest-lined roads up to the visitor centre, providing a good challenge. Newlands Pass Climb from Buttermere also features steep sections and fantastic views, and is part of the Fred Whitton sportive.

Honister Pass is a hub for adventure seekers. At the summit, the Honister Slate Mine offers underground tours and exhilarating activities like the Via Ferrata (Classic and Extreme courses), a protected climbing route. You can also experience Europe's longest high-wire bridge, the Infinity Bridge, and other adrenaline-pumping options such as the Via Ferrata Xtreme and The Jump.

Many passes offer breathtaking views. Newlands Pass provides dramatic vistas of hills, waterfalls, and the tranquil Newlands Valley, with Moss Beck waterfalls near its highest point. Honister Pass is renowned for its dramatic landscapes. Hardknott Pass and Wrynose Pass both offer spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding fells and remote parts of the Lake District.

Yes, the mountain passes provide access to numerous hiking opportunities. For moderate hikes, you can explore routes like the Buttermere loop or the Derwent Water loop. More challenging trails include those around Sty Head Stretcher Box, which is a meeting point of six distinct paths in the mountainous heart of the Lake District, offering views of Great Gable and the Scafells. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Allerdale guide.

The best time to visit is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is milder and the passes are less likely to be affected by snow and ice. Passes like Hardknott and Wrynose are frequently closed in winter due to severe conditions. Always check local weather and road conditions before planning your trip, especially outside of peak season.

Yes, Whinlatter Pass is particularly renowned for its mountain biking trails within Whinlatter Forest, catering to various skill levels. The forest also offers bike hire. For more challenging routes, you can explore options like The Borrowdale Bash or the Whinlatter Forest loop. Discover more mountain biking trails in the MTB Trails around Allerdale guide.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning, dramatic scenery and the challenging nature of the climbs and drives. Many appreciate the blend of natural beauty, historical sites like the Roman fort, and the wide range of outdoor activities available, from gentle walks to thrilling adventure sports. The sense of accomplishment after tackling a steep pass is also a common highlight.

Yes, several passes are part of beautiful circular scenic drives and walks. For example, Honister Pass is part of a circular route that includes Newlands Pass, Buttermere, and Crummock Water. The Newlands Valley, accessible via Newlands Pass, also offers a variety of walking routes. For more ideas on circular walks, you can explore the various hiking guides for the region.

At the top of Whinlatter Pass, you'll find the Whinlatter Forest Visitor Centre, which provides information, a gift shop, a restaurant, and even CCTV of nearby ospreys. While other passes may not have dedicated visitor centres, they often have car parks and serve as starting points for walks, with amenities available in nearby villages.