Hardknott Pass is described as one of the most challenging riding routes in Britain. It is a single track which runs between Eskdale in the west to the edge of the neighbouring Wrynose Pass in the east and is a whole lot of fun on a motorbike, so long as it’s not a busy summer’s day.

The Hardknott Pass, which is the most direct route from the central Lake District to West Cumbria, shares the title of steepest road in England (the other is Rosedale Chimney Bank in North Yorkshire). It has a maximum gradient of 1 in 3 (about 33%).

At an elevation of 393m above the sea level, the Hardknott Pass becomes especially dangerous for the brakes on a couple of particularly steep turns and it’s one of the most challenging sections of road in England. The pass itself has a series of hairpin bends that can be unnerving for drivers of cars and minibuses (heavier vehicles are advised not to use the pass), especially as the tarmac has become quite smooth in places. Drivers are expected to give way to oncoming traffic that is ascending the pass.

How many kilometres is it / How long does it take to ride the Hardknott Pass?

There are two possible routes to reach the Hardknott Pass. Starting from Little Langdale, the ascent is 2 km long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 299 meters. The average percentage is 15 %. And starting from Cockley Beck, the ascent is 2 km long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 175 meters.The 20 km (12.3 miles) from Little Langdale to Eskdale (or vice versa) only takes 30-40 mins, depending on traffic and photo stops.

Are there any accommodation or camping options along the way?

There are loads of accommodation in the Lake District but the most biker-friendly ones can be found in the towns of Holmrook, Ravenglass, Whithaven and Richmond. Motorcycle friendly campsites are Eskdale Campsite in Holmrook, Hollins Farm Campsite in Eskdale and National Trust campsite near Ambleside.

Interesting sights on the Hardknott Pass?

Though considered a challenging ride, this pass offers magnificent views as you’ll through some of the most secluded and ruggedly beautiful areas of the Lake District. Some of the famous attractions are Hardknott Roman Fort, Birks Bridge, Three Shire Stone, Stanley Ghyll Force Waterfall and Wast Water.

Best time to visit?

Traffic is particularly bad on the sunny summer Sundays when most riders will want to ride. Try and go midweek or in spring/autumn to avoid having your run spoiled by traffic. In winter, heavy snowfalls can sometimes block some sections of the road and can be extremely dangerous due to frequent patches of ice.

Where are people able to get fuel when they are riding the route?
The closest petrol station is at Holmrook on the A595.

Photo Credit: shirokazan / CC BY

Photo Credit: Barney Moss / CC BY

Photo Credit: Andrew Smith / CC BY

Photo Credit : Adam Russell / CC BY

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Hardknott Pass

Hardknott Pass

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