Is Bamford Clough in the Peak District the steepest road in England?
England, europe
0.64 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
Dare to tackle Bamford Clough in the Peak District, England? This might just be the world's steepest road, with a sign warning you of a 35% gradient and that it's "unsuitable for motor vehicles". You'll find this wild climb, also known as The Clough, snaking up from near the River Derwent, right behind the local primary school in Derbyshire.
Once just a lane that morphed into a track, it got a fresh layer of smooth tarmac between 2020 and 2021. This beast of a road stretches for 0.64km (0.4 miles), climbing 142m from Taggs Knoll to New Road. Expect an average gradient of 21%, but be warned – it spikes to a brutal 36.5% in sections! That crazy steepness isn't just a fleeting moment; it holds for a good few meters. The climb is relentless from the village, but things get seriously intense after you pass that first 35% warning sign.
No one really knows why this road was paved, and to add to the mystery, there's a newly installed sign at the bottom warning drivers to stay away. It's even blocked with rocks, though cyclists can sneak around the barrier. As for vehicles, who knows what the future holds?
Officially, Ffordd Pen Llech in North Wales holds the Guinness World Record for Britain's steepest road at 37.45%. But Bamford Clough is a serious contender, offering an unforgettable (and leg-burning) experience!
Where is it?
Is Bamford Clough in the Peak District the steepest road in England? is located in England (europe). Coordinates: 55.4285, -2.6769
Road Details
- Country
- England
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 0.64 km
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 55.4285, -2.6769
Related Roads in europe
extremeA Challenging Road to Lake Susicko in Montenegro's Durmitor National Park
🌍 Montenegro
Hey adventure seekers! Let me tell you about Sušičko Jezero, a hidden gem nestled high in the mountains of northwestern Montenegro. This isn't just any lake; at 1,163m (3,815ft), it's a seasonal spectacle within Durmitor National Park, vanishing when the River Sušica dries up! The 6.5 km (4.03 miles) road to the lake starts from the village of Nedajno. Expect mostly paved road, but with some rough, unpaved sections thrown in to keep things interesting! Hold on tight, because this road throws some serious curves your way. Think hairpin turns and dramatic drop-offs that will test your driving skills. Some spots are so narrow only one vehicle can pass, so keep your eyes peeled! Summer brings more traffic, so patience is key. But trust me, the views are worth every white-knuckle moment. You'll be treated to incredible vistas of the Sušica Canyon. And the lake itself? When full, it stretches 350-450 m long and up to 200 m wide, reaching depths of 4-5 m. But by late summer, it transforms into a lush green meadow. This drive is a challenge, yes, but it's also an unforgettable journey through Montenegro's breathtaking natural beauty. So, take it slow, stay safe, and soak it all in!
hardIs the road to Großsee paved?
🇦🇹 Austria
Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits! We're heading to Großsee, a stunning alpine reservoir perched way up in Carinthia, Austria. Think jaw-dropping views from 2,481m (8,139ft)! The road? Mostly paved, thankfully, but hold on tight. It's a twisty, turny climb with around 30 hairpin bends. The asphalt gives way to a rougher track near the top at 2,470m (8,103ft), so be prepared for some boulders and maybe even snow. The adventure kicks off in Großkirchheim, and from there it's a 15.8 km (9.81 miles) ascent. And get this - the road is seriously steep! We're talking gradients of up to 24% in places. You'll be climbing 1,459 meters in total, averaging over 9% along the way. Built in 1978, this road will test your car and reward you with incredible scenery. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!
moderateLac de l’Ouillette
🇫🇷 France
# Lac de l'Ouillette Tucked away in the French Alps near the Italian border, Lac de l'Ouillette sits pretty at a whopping 2,521 meters (8,270 feet) above sea level in Savoie. This stunning high-altitude lake is totally worth the drive—if you time it right. Here's the real talk: the road up is gravel and rocky, with some seriously bumpy stretches that'll definitely test your suspension. Your best bet? Visit between July and September when the road is actually passable. Winter and spring? Forget about it—snow and bad weather make it a no-go zone from October through June. The good news? If you've got a high-clearance 2WD vehicle and take it slow, you'll be fine. It's a maintained route, so as long as the weather cooperates and you're not in a hurry, you can navigate the washboard ruts and dips without drama. Beyond just the adrenaline rush of the drive, this place is an angler's paradise. Whether you're a seasoned fishing enthusiast or just looking for a family-friendly activity, the trout fishing here is absolutely stellar. So pack your gear, time your visit wisely, and prepare for some seriously epic Alpine scenery combined with a challenging road that'll make you feel like you've really earned that mountain lake experience.
hardThe paved road to Central Hidroelectrica de Millares II
🇪🇸 Spain
# The Road to Millares' Hidden Hydroelectric Wonder Ready for a quirky Spanish adventure? Head to the Canal de Navarrés region in the Valencian Community, where a rather unconventional road awaits. Starting from the charming town of Millares, this 9.1km (5.65 miles) route takes you through increasingly narrow asphalt roads toward the Central Hidroelectrica de Millares II, a hydroelectric power station sitting dramatically on the Xúquer river. Here's where it gets interesting: the road doesn't just end at the power station—it keeps going, only to suddenly terminate at the river's edge. It's like the road simply gave up and decided to take a dip! The narrow passage and unexpected ending make this a memorable drive for anyone seeking those Instagram-worthy moments where nature and infrastructure collide. The scenery around the Xúquer is stunning, with river valleys and lush greenery framing your journey. If you're exploring the area, it's a perfect pit stop between other adventures in the region. Just remember to watch your speed on those tight turns and be prepared for that abrupt finale—it's definitely not your typical highway experience!