Honister Pass Climb from Gatesgarth
Honister Pass Climb from Gatesgarth
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Honister Pass Climb from Gatesgarth
Road cycling
4.9
(92)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
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August 4, 2020
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May 10, 2018
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Honister Pass Climb from Gatesgarth
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35.0km
01:52
620m
620m
Embark on the Honister Pass and Buttermere loop from Keswick, a classic road cycling route through the stunning Lake District. This moderate 21.7-mile (35.0 km) racebike loop, taking around 1 hour and 51 minutes, features a significant 2035 feet (620 metres) of elevation gain. You will navigate demanding climbs, including the iconic Honister Pass, known for its gradients up to 25%. As you cycle, you'll pass through the lush Borrowdale Valley and enjoy picturesque views of Buttermere lake, framed by towering fells like Fleetwith Edge and Honister Crag. The route offers a true sense of scale, making you feel small against the vast landscape.
While the official difficulty is moderate, be prepared for a challenging ride; the research suggests this loop is often considered difficult for road cycling due to its steep and sustained gradients. The initial stretch from Keswick along the lake road to Borrowdale can be busy, so plan your start time accordingly. Road conditions are mostly paved, but some segments might be unpaved or difficult to ride, especially on the descents from Honister Pass into Buttermere. Good fitness is essential for tackling the demanding climbs.
This loop is celebrated for its inclusion in the demanding Fred Whitton Challenge, highlighting its status as a serious cycling test. Conquering Honister Pass, with its extreme gradients, provides a significant sense of accomplishment. You will also pass the Honister Slate Mine at the summit of Honister Pass, a unique landmark. The route offers a varied cycling experience, combining severe physical challenge with some of the most impressive scenery the Lake District has to offer.
5.0
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139km
07:16
2,440m
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Embark on the Three Classic Climbs loop, a racebike challenge spanning 86.1 miles (138.6 km) through the stunning Lake District. This difficult route, which typically takes around 7 hours and 16 minutes to complete, features an impressive 7992 feet (2436 metres) of elevation gain. You will experience consistently spectacular scenery, from extraordinary views over Ambleside and Windermere as you climb The Struggle, to the stupendous fells of rugged Borrowdale from Honister Pass, and the memorable craggy landscapes of Wrynose Pass.
This loop is considered hard and exhausting, demanding very good fitness due to some of the steepest climbs in the UK, with gradients often exceeding 20 percent and sections reaching up to 33 percent. You should be prepared with low gears, as some parts might even require you to push your bike. The road surfaces vary, with some sections being rough, featuring old tarmac, frequent potholes, and rippled surfaces on descents, which require careful attention.
The Three Classic Climbs loop is notable for its extreme challenge, incorporating some of the toughest road climbs in the UK and serving as a significant test of endurance. It offers an iconic Lake District experience, showcasing dramatic fells, lakes, and unspoiled valleys. The route includes renowned passes featured in cycling books and events, such as Wrynose Pass, home to the historic Three Shire Stone, solidifying its status as a bucket-list ride for experienced cyclists.
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123
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60.2km
03:02
810m
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This road cycling loop from Keswick takes you through some of the Lake District's most iconic landscapes. You will cover a moderate distance of 37.4 miles (60.2 km), gaining 2671 feet (814 metres) in elevation, which typically takes around 3 hours and 1 minute to complete. The route offers a memorable experience, especially as you cycle alongside the serene waters of Derwentwater, Buttermere, and Crummock Water, with dramatic fells rising around you. The highlight for many is the demanding ascent over Honister Pass, where you are rewarded with expansive views overlooking the rugged Borrowdale fells. This ride is designed for cyclists with good fitness who appreciate a challenging yet scenic journey.
Before you set out on this loop, be aware that it is rated as moderate, leaning towards hard, due to the significant elevation gain and steep gradients, particularly on Honister Pass. You should have good fitness to comfortably tackle the climbs. Parking is readily available in Keswick, which serves as the convenient starting point for this circular route. Be prepared for potentially challenging conditions, especially if you encounter wet weather, as this can make the steep ascents even tougher. Always check the forecast and ensure your bike is in good condition before beginning your ride.
This route is notable for showcasing the diverse beauty of the Lake District National Park, transitioning from the bustling market town of Keswick to the tranquil valleys and formidable mountain passes. You will experience the unique character of the region, from the reflective surfaces of its famous lakes to the rugged, ancient fells that define its skyline. The opportunity to visit the Honister Slate Mine at the summit of Honister Pass adds a historical and cultural dimension to your ride, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial heritage. This loop provides a comprehensive tour of some of the most spectacular scenery the Lake District has to offer.
Details
Informations
Distance 3.66 km
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 260 m
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