Top 20 Mountain Passes around Lakes

The Lake District is home to several exceptionally challenging mountain passes. Wrynose Pass Climb from Fell Foot Farm and Hardknott Pass are widely considered the steepest, with gradients reaching up to 30-33% (1 in 3) and narrow, winding single-track roads. Honister Pass Climb from Gatesgarth also presents a demanding ascent with gradients of 1 in 4, while Garburn Pass is known for its steep and loose sections, particularly from the Kentmere side.

Many passes in the Lake District boast spectacular views. Hardknott Pass offers superb vistas, and on a clear day, you might even see the Isle of Man. Wrynose Pass provides superb views over remote hills, while Kirkstone Pass, the highest motorable pass, offers sweeping panoramas across the Patterdale and Troutbeck valleys. Honister Pass is celebrated for its dramatic, wild scenery of fells, lakes, and valleys. Newlands Pass also provides stunning views above the valley floor.

Yes, several passes are rich in history. Hardknott Pass features the remarkably well-preserved remains of Mediobogdum, a 2nd-century Roman fort. Wrynose Pass is part of an ancient route, with remnants of an old Roman road still visible. Near its summit lies the 'Three Shires Stone,' marking historic county borders. Kirkstone Pass follows an old drover's road and is home to the historic Kirkstone Inn, dating back to 1496. Sty Head Stretcher Box marks the apex of an ancient trade route between Borrowdale and Wasdale.

The mountain passes are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes to Haystacks and Fleetwith Pike from Honister Pass, or to Great Gable and Scafell Pike from Sty Head Pass. Grisedale Tarn is a meeting point for hikers heading to St. Sunday or Helvelyn. Many passes are also popular for cycling, forming part of challenging routes like the Fred Whitton Challenge. For more specific routes, explore the MTB Trails around Lakes, Easy hikes around Lakes, or Gravel biking around Lakes guides.

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

While many Lake District passes are demanding, Whinlatter Pass offers a less severe climb. It winds through Thornthwaite Forest, providing a different feel with forest-lined roads and views over Bassenthwaite Lake, making it a good option for those seeking a more moderate experience compared to the likes of Hardknott or Wrynose.

Beyond the stunning landscapes, you'll find unique features. Wrynose Pass is home to the 'Three Shires Stone,' a historic marker. Grisedale Tarn is an atmospheric mountain lake high in the fells. Honister Pass features the Honister Slate Mine, a historic and still-operating slate works. Newlands Pass offers views of Moss Beck falls.

Some passes offer amenities. Near the summit of Kirkstone Pass stands the historic Kirkstone Inn, one of England's highest inns, which has welcomed travelers for centuries. At the summit of Honister Pass, you'll find the Honister Slate Mine, which offers tours and activities. At the Little Langdale end of Wrynose Pass, you can find Fell Foot Farm, a 17th-century National Trust farmstead, and Cockley Beck at the Duddon Valley end features a picturesque bridge.

While some passes are very challenging, others can be enjoyed by families, depending on the activity. Scenic drives through passes like Whinlatter or parts of Kirkstone can be family-friendly. For hiking, consider easier trails accessible from some passes, but always check the difficulty and length. The Honister Slate Mine on Honister Pass offers an engaging experience for families, including mine tours and the Via Ferrata for older, adventurous children.

Grisedale Tarn is unique as it's a lake that represents a mountain pass between Grasmere and Patterdale. It's set in an atmospheric location high in the mountains and serves as a crucial meeting point for hikers choosing routes to St. Sunday or Helvelyn. Folklore suggests a battle was fought here in 945 AD between Saxon and Celtic kings.

Accessibility varies significantly. Passes like Hardknott and Wrynose are notoriously difficult for drivers, featuring extremely steep gradients (up to 1 in 3), narrow single-track roads, and numerous hairpin bends. Kirkstone Pass and Honister Pass also have steep inclines and sharp bends. Always exercise caution, especially in adverse weather, and ensure your vehicle is suitable for such challenging conditions. Whinlatter Pass offers a comparatively less severe drive.

Absolutely. Many of the Lake District's mountain passes are iconic for cyclists, forming part of challenging routes. Hardknott Pass and Wrynose Pass are integral to the annual Fred Whitton Challenge, attracting endurance cyclists. Honister Pass Climb from Gatesgarth is considered one of the best and toughest climbs in the UK. Garburn Pass is also a popular, albeit challenging, cycling route. For more cycling options, refer to the MTB Trails around Lakes and Gravel biking around Lakes guides.