Where does Kirkstone Pass start and end?
England, europe
18.5 km
459 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Lake District in England, and you come across the A592. This isn't just any road – it's Kirkstone Pass! Starting near Windermere and snaking its way north to Patterdale, this 11.5-mile stretch takes you up to 1,505 feet above sea level.
This road used to be a drover's path for farmers, and now it's a tourist magnet for good reason. "The Struggle" – that's what they used to call it, and you'll see why! Some sections hit a crazy 17% gradient, so keep your car in low gear. It's paved, but super twisty and narrow.
Word of warning: winter can shut this place down. Snow and ice make it pretty treacherous, and mist can roll in at the summit, so be aware. But if you're up for it, the views are incredible, especially of Brothers Water and the Lakeland fells.
Oh, and did I mention it's supposedly haunted? Keep an eye out for a grey woman, a mischievous lost hiker, or maybe even the ghost of a woman hanged for killing her kid! Don't forget to stop at the Kirkstone Inn near the top – it's the highest pub in Cumbria and has been serving folks for over 500 years. All in all, give yourself about 30 minutes to conquer this pass, but leave extra time for those amazing views and maybe a ghost sighting!
Road Details
- Country
- England
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 18.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 459 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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