Wrynose Pass, in the Lake District, forms one of England’s most feared pairs of climbs alongside neighbouring Hardknott Pass: a short but explosive ascent, on a narrow single-track road that rises sharply above Little Langdale.
A short but very steep climb
From Little Langdale, the road climbs 2.9 km for 272 m of elevation gain, averaging 9.4% — a figure that hides a much harder reality: the first two kilometres average 13.2%, with a final 700 m stretch at 17.5%, and recorded peaks of 20-25% in places.
Getting the ride right
An extra-wide range cassette, around 34-36 teeth, is almost essential if you want any chance of clearing the steepest sections without putting a foot down. The single-track road calls for staying alert to oncoming traffic, especially on stretches with no visibility.
When to go
April to October, as the road stays rideable year-round but winter conditions can make it slick and dangerous on the steepest sections. Many cyclists ride Wrynose and Hardknott together in the same outing, linked by the descent toward Cockley Beck.
Good to know
Little Langdale, a hamlet in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lake District, gives convenient access to Ambleside for accommodation, set among moorland and glacial valleys typical of the region.
