Topping out at 848 m, Great Dun Fell carries the highest paved road in England, a short but fearsome climb in the Pennines of Cumbria.
A short, brutal climb
From Knock, it’s 7.4 km for 631 m of elevation gain, averaging 8.6% with long sustained ramps close to 15% and peaks near 20%. The narrow road, with no flat sections to recover on, offers barely any respite.
A private road shared by a radar station and cyclists
Beyond the hamlet of Knock, the road becomes private, serving only the National Air Traffic Services radar station at the summit, its distinctive white dome visible from afar. Closed to motor vehicles, it remains open to cyclists and walkers.
Getting the ride right
A very easy gear is essential to handle the steepest ramps without stalling — it’s better to keep some margin in reserve from the base of the climb than to discover you’re out of gears mid-slope.
When to go
April to October: the Pennines stay exposed to wind and fog year-round, and the road can turn dangerous in icy or snowy winter conditions.
Good to know
Knock and the neighbouring village of Appleby-in-Westmorland offer shops and accommodation to prepare for the ride, while the wind-scoured summit offers no shelter at all.
