The Top 20 Mountain Passes in Lake District
Whether it be for the views, for the climbs or for the downhill descents, browse our list of the best mountain passes in Lake District and make your next adventure one to remember. Contributed by the community, for the community, each mountain pass Highlight is a personal recommendation you know you can trust, so simply find your favorite and go.
Last updated: December 4, 2025
Grisedale Tarn
Highlight • Lake
Grisedale Tarn is in an atmospheric setting high in the mountains at the head of three valleys. According to folklore, a battle was fought in 945AD between the Saxon King …
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Whinlatter Pass Climb from Braithwaite
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
One of the best climbs in the area. A steady climb on forest lined roads up to the Whinlatter vistor centre. A good challenge but not as murderous as Honister …
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Honister Pass Climb from Gatesgarth
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Imposing and consistently steep, with the hardest stretch near the top and a long stretch of rising road beforehand that will start to tax you before you even reach the climb proper
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Wrynose Pass Climb from Fell Foot Farm
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
Incredibly steep (almost all over 20%) but so rewarding when you get to the top. The average grade is 11% for this 1.6 mile (2.5 km) climb. On the more …
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Garburn Pass
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
Debate has long raged as to whether it's better to ride the Garburn Pass from Kentmere to Troutbeck or vice versa. The trail is much steeper on the Kentmere side; …
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