Hardknott Pass from Eskdale

Route overview

Suitable for cyclists prepared for a short but steep 208 m climb over 7.3 km with some unpaved sections.

7.3 km ride from Eskdale climbing Hardknott Pass to 263 m under Border End in the UK.

This 7.3 km route starts near Eskdale and heads through Boot at 1.8 km and Dalegarth at 2.1 km. The elevation begins around 55 m at Dalegarth and ends at 263 m beneath Border End, covering 208 m of climbing. The profile includes a steep climb of 1.9 km starting at 5.4 km averaging 9.5% gradient with sections up to 16% and a steepest half-kilometre at 15.6% around 6 km. The surface is mixed, with 72% paved and 26% gravel or unpaved, mostly on minor roads for 5.2 km and cycle paths for 1.9 km. Of the ride, 5.1 km are on roads with a speed limit over 80 km/h. There is a 3.7 km stretch with no cafes, shops or water between 3.6 km and the finish. Along the route, a pub and toilets lie just off route at Dalegarth (2.1 km). Bailout is possible there with a station close by. Notable places include Nab Gill Iron Mine at 1.7 km and Hardknott Roman Fort near 6.7 km. The route descends mainly in the first 2 km before the steep climb to the finish near Border End peak.

Highlights

• Hardknott Pass climb with gradients up to 16%
• Hardknott Roman Fort archaeological site at 6.7 km
• Nab Gill Iron Mine viewpoint at 1.7 km
• Ride ends beneath Border End 522 m peak

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Point to point

Riding time

31 min

Best months

Jun to Aug — daily highs of 16–17 °C in those months

Know before you go

• 3.7 km without cafe, shop or water from 3.6 km
• 5.1 km on roads with 80 km/h speed limits
• 26% gravel or unpaved surface
• Steep climb averaging 9.5% with sections up to 16%

Routes are for inspiration. Roads, surfaces and conditions change — check locally and ride within your limits.