Cycling the infamous Kirkstone Pass

Here are the pictures from our climb up the wonderful Kirkstone Pass during our adventure. Ten kilometres up to an altitude of 1,489 feet (454 metres), with a pleasant average gradient of around 4 per cent, but tougher sections at 12-13 per cent.

This is the longest route up the climb, but there’s always ‘The Struggle’ for those of you who fancy a tougher challenge. Gradients up to 25 per cent will definitely leave you feeling like you’ve earned a drink when you reach the Kirkstone Pass Inn at the top!

Lake Windermere

Lunch by the lake before we take on the famous climb.

Last glimpse

Our last views of Windermere. Next stop Ullswater.

A steep start.

The B-road from Troutbeck Bridge immediately kicks up through the trees .

Into the light.

But the climb is instantly worth it for the views.

Village life

We pass through some beautiful old villages, full of white painted stone cottages and quaint little pubs.

Back on the main road

And the gradient kicks again.

Mountains ahead

England’s green and pleasant (if rather hilly) land.

Full steam ahead

Lou powering up the road after a quick photo stop.

I can see my house from here

Well, not quite, but the views stretch for miles.

An easier bit

The gradient relents, but still we climb.

Poser!

Me proving I cycled up too and didn’t just sit in a car taking photos.

Up we go again

The road kicks once more.

And again

Ok, maybe twice more.

And we’re there

Lou pauses for a photo in front of the famous Kirkstone Pass Inn.

Fancy a pint?

A very kind cyclist offers to buy us both a drink, thinking we’re taking on the same challenge as him. We’re not allowed inside the pub of course (due to COVID), but at least the sun is shining.

Wow!

The view over the other side. Downhill all the way to Ullswater now.

And we’re down.

The lush green valley on the way into Ullswater, where we’ll be enjoying a rest day.

Not a bad view for dinner

Sat outside the pub, surrounded by mountains as the sun sets and we enjoy burger and chips, washed down with beer and wine (only one each of course!).