Wrynose Pass is a mountain pass between the Duddon Valley and Little Langdale in Cumbria. The single-track and narrow road sits 393m or 1,281 feet above the sea level and continues over Hardknott Pass and on into Eskdale. The road descended in a series of hairpin bends and driving the pass is not for the faint-hearted.

The Wrynose Pass is part of the Old Roman road named the 10th iter served troops at Hardknott Fort. The peculiar name, is taken from a nearby hill Wrynose Hill, also called Wrynose Fell. It may derive from ‘pass of the stallion’ and referred to the fact that the steep gradients (up to 1 in 3) needed a well-muscled horse to attain the top.

At the top of the Wrynose Pass is a boundary stone that marks the location called Three Shire Stone, marking the meeting point of the historic counties of Cumberland, Lancashire and Westmorland. At the bottom of Wrynose is Fell Foot Farm, one of the most stunning settings in the Lake District .

How many kilometres is it / How long does it take to ride it?
There are 3 routes to reach the summit. Starting from Fell Foot or Cockley Beck, the ascent is 3 km and if you’ll start the ride from Langdale, the ascent is 2.89 km long.

Are there any accommodation or camping options along the way?
Cumbria is considered one of the most beautiful regions of the UK and includes the whole of the Lake District that attracts many tourists. The area offers a vast range of accommodation options. For biker-friendly accommodation, nearest to Wrynose Pass are in the towns of Ravenglass, Whithaven and Richmond. Campsites nearby are Great Langdale Campsite and Eskdale Campsite.

Interesting sights on the route?
The view from the top of the pass is amazing overlooking some of the most beautiful and remote hills of the Lake District National Park. Some of the highlights are Three Shire Stone, located at the top o of the pass marking the meeting point of the historic counties of Cumberland, Lancashire and Westmorland. At the bottom of Wrynose is Fell Foot Farm, a National Trust property with a fascinating history and a tradition for hospitality that dates back centuries. Nearby historic attractions are Stickle Tarn Walk, Old Man of Coniston, Birks Bridge, Tom Gill, Ruskin Museum and Hardknott Roman Fort.

What is the best time of year to travel the route?
The best time to ride the Wrynose Pass is between April and October when the days are longer and the weather is at its best. Ride early in the day to fully enjoy the area.

Is the route ever closed over winter?
During winter months, the pass is often closed and impassable for vehicles due to snow.

Where are people able to get fuel when they are riding the route?
There are no petrol stations around and nearest area to refill is in the village of Holmrook.

Photo credit: alx_chief / CC BY

Photo credit: einalem / CC BY

Photo credit: Ben Salter / CC BY

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Wrynose Pass

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