The Struggle Climb from Ambleside
The Struggle Climb from Ambleside
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
The Struggle Climb from Ambleside
Road cycling
4.9
(36)
Cycling
5.0
(23)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
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Tips
May 15, 2020
Road cycling
September 10, 2018
Road cycling
September 3, 2022
Cycling
The Kirkstone Pass Inn, formerly an important coaching inn, is England's theird highest pub and stands close to the summit of the pass.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near The Struggle Climb from Ambleside
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This difficult racebike route, the Blencathra, Castlerigg & Ullswater loop from Penrith, takes you on a comprehensive journey through the northern Lake District. You will cover 56.0 miles (90.1 km) with a significant elevation gain of 3786 feet (1154 metres), typically completed in 4 hours and 25 minutes. Expect diverse landscapes, from rolling fells and deep valleys to the serene shores of Ullswater. As you ride along quiet lanes and fell roads, you'll enjoy extensive views of Ullswater and a full side view of the imposing Blencathra mountain. This challenging ride demands very good fitness.
Starting from Penrith, this route serves as an excellent base for exploring the Lake District National Park. Before you set off, make sure you have arranged suitable parking in Penrith. This hard road ride is best suited for well-prepared cyclists who are ready for a demanding day in the saddle. Consider starting early to make the most of the daylight and enjoy the quieter roads.
Beyond the natural beauty, this loop offers a glimpse into ancient history with the Castlerigg Stone Circle. This prehistoric monument provides 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding fells, making it a unique stop on your ride. The route is notable for combining the dramatic presence of Blencathra with the tranquil expanse of Ullswater, offering a varied experience of the region's iconic features.
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Embark on the Three Classic Climbs loop, a racebike challenge spanning 86.1 miles (138.6 km) through the stunning Lake District. This difficult route, which typically takes around 7 hours and 16 minutes to complete, features an impressive 7992 feet (2436 metres) of elevation gain. You will experience consistently spectacular scenery, from extraordinary views over Ambleside and Windermere as you climb The Struggle, to the stupendous fells of rugged Borrowdale from Honister Pass, and the memorable craggy landscapes of Wrynose Pass.
This loop is considered hard and exhausting, demanding very good fitness due to some of the steepest climbs in the UK, with gradients often exceeding 20 percent and sections reaching up to 33 percent. You should be prepared with low gears, as some parts might even require you to push your bike. The road surfaces vary, with some sections being rough, featuring old tarmac, frequent potholes, and rippled surfaces on descents, which require careful attention.
The Three Classic Climbs loop is notable for its extreme challenge, incorporating some of the toughest road climbs in the UK and serving as a significant test of endurance. It offers an iconic Lake District experience, showcasing dramatic fells, lakes, and unspoiled valleys. The route includes renowned passes featured in cycling books and events, such as Wrynose Pass, home to the historic Three Shire Stone, solidifying its status as a bucket-list ride for experienced cyclists.
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This difficult 35.6-mile (57.3 km) road cycling loop from Windermere takes you through the heart of the Lake District, featuring a significant 3249 feet (990 metres) of elevation gain. Expect to spend around 2 hours and 59 minutes tackling its demanding climbs and varied terrain. You will experience the formidable Kirkstone Pass, known for its steep gradients, before descending into the diverse landscapes of Great Langdale, where the iconic Langdale Pikes dominate the skyline. The route offers a mix of lush meadows, woodlands, and historic slate quarries, providing a visually rich and challenging ride.
Planning this ride requires very good fitness due to the hard road ride classification. Be prepared for the ascent of Kirkstone Pass, which includes sections like "The Struggle" from Ambleside with gradients up to 24%. While much of the route is paved, some segments within Great Langdale may be unpaved and difficult for road bikes, meaning you might need to push your bike at times. The Kirkstone Pass Inn at the summit offers a notable break point.
This loop is considered an iconic Lake District experience, combining some of the region's most demanding road cycling with stunning natural beauty. The Kirkstone Pass climb is a significant feature of the grueling Fred Whitton Challenge, highlighting its reputation as one of England's hardest climbs. The historic Kirkstone Pass Inn, located at 1,489 feet (454 meters), is the third-highest public house in England and a landmark on this classic ride.
Details
Informations
Distance 4.10 km
Uphill 330 m
Weather
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Saturday 30 May
16°C
10°C
51 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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