Everyone in the Lake District makes this terrifying drive eventually, and the panoramic views of the fells make it worth the 30% grade on the roads and the hairpin switchbacks. Oh, and the road is only one car wide so you have to pull over on occasion to let cars pass in the opposite direction. The road is only driveable in summer, and only cars (no caravans or busses) are allowed. Cyclists are as well, but they look so miserable I can’t imagine doing it. A few walking trails lead off of the pass, and there are areas where you can park and admire the scenery. Ruins of a Roman fortress can be found and wandered through near the top of the pass. They are over 2000 years old. On a clear day the views are spectacular. Google maps will take you there if you put Hardknott Pass in as a destination, but be prepared to use road signs or maps to navigate home if you lose signal.
What’s the most beautiful or terrifying drive you’ve ever taken?
Amanda Afield 
Looks like a scary ride but the view is amazing. It’s just so vast!
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The photos don’t do it justice, it is amazing up there!
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I love a drive like this – as long as I’m not in the driver’s seat!!
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Agreed! I was not driving, so it was all good!
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It’s so beautiful ! I’m very excited to visit the area. The most terrifying drive I’ve done was in Croatia, in the mountain Biokovo. People couldn’t drive both ways, so when you were meeting someone, you have to park as close as possible to the ravine or the rocks, with no shoulders. I ended up crying. It was the most terrifying drive I’ve ever done. I’m not proud of myself, I was hysterical 😉
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That sounds terrifying! You made it though! I don’t like the concept of pulling over to let others pass on narrow winding roads. Luckily I wasn’t in the drivers seat this time!
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Me neither, I hate that, that’s why I was so scared 😦
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Amazing road – but very painful to cycle up! :p
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I can only imagine! But it’s an incredible accomplishment!
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I remember crossing Hardknot and Wrynose in a 2CV! Lots of fun. We picked up an injured cyclist. Bike through the roll back roof. Have you visited the Bouder Stone or the Fairy steps? So many beautiful and interesting places to visit in the Lakes. Lucky you!
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I couldn’t believe people cycle up those hills! I have been to the Bouder Stone but not the fairy steps, I’ll have to look those up. But I love living in the lakes!
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Did you find the ‘secret spot’ where you can lie down and hold hands with somebody on the other side of the stone? Think the steps are Beetham/Arnside way. Hoping to take my children when I’m home this summer – quite magical and unexpected (and I seem to remember a handy pub close by).
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No but that sounds like a good reason to go back! And conveniently located pubs are the best! 🙂
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