Buttertubs Pass from Hawes

Route overview

Suitable for riders prepared for a short but steep 7.5 km climb with moderate elevation gain.

A 7.5 km point-to-point ride from Hawes to Buttertubs Pass with 298 m of climbing in the UK.

This route starts in Hawes, passing through Gayle at the start and Simonstone at 2.5 km. It primarily follows minor roads covering 7 km with 96% paved surface and a small section of gravel. Of the 7.5 km, 6.7 km are on roads with speed limits of 80 km/h or higher. From km 1 to km 6, there is a significant climb covering 5 km with a gain of 283 m at an average gradient of 5.7% and a maximum gradient of 11.8%. The climb reaches its highest point at 523 m around km 6.8, beneath Hood Rigg peak near the route's end. Amenities near Hawes include cafés, pubs, and a convenience store. The longest section without a café, shop, or water is 6.2 km between km 0.3 and km 6.5. There are toilets and a spring near km 6.5. Points of interest near the start include Hawes Ropemakers and near the finish, the Butter Tubs attraction.

Highlights

• Climb with 283 m gain over 5 km
• Highest point at 523 m near Hood Rigg
• Passes through Gayle and Simonstone
• Buttertubs attraction at 7.5 km

Practical information

Surface

Paved

Route shape

Point to point

Riding time

32 min

Best months

Jun to Aug — daily highs of 16–18 °C in those months

Know before you go

• 6.2 km without café, shop or water from km 0.3 to 6.5
• 6.7 km on roads with 80 km/h+ speed limit
• Up to 14.5% gradient on steepest 500 m

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