Whinlatter Pass Climb from Braithwaite
Whinlatter Pass Climb from Braithwaite
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Whinlatter Pass Climb from Braithwaite
Road cycling
5.0
(116)
Cycling
5.0
(2)
Mountain biking
5.0
(1)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
April 8, 2018
Road cycling
April 28, 2018
Road cycling
At the top of the Whinlatter climb you can pop into the Visitors center for a coffee and cake if you are that way inclined.
May 24, 2021
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Whinlatter Pass Climb from Braithwaite
5.0
(6)
584
riders
111km
05:53
1,980m
1,980m
Embark on the Fred Whitton Challenge eastern loop, a demanding racebike route starting from Grasmere in the Lake District National Park. This difficult 68.8-mile (110.7 km) journey features an impressive 6495 feet (1980 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in 5 hours and 53 minutes. You will tackle iconic Lakeland passes like Kirkstone Pass, Honister Pass with its brutal 20-25% gradients, and Newlands Pass, offering steep ramps over 20% on narrow surfaces. Throughout the ride, you are treated to breathtaking views of ancient woodlands, waterfalls, looming mountains, and serene lakes such as Ullswater and Derwent Water, making the physical challenge worthwhile. The route is a true test of endurance, weaving through majestic landscapes and epic grassy slopes.
Given the extreme difficulty of this route, often cited as the hardest one-day ride in the UK, it is strongly advised against as a first sportive. The descents on these passes are frequently tricky, featuring sharp corners and uneven surfaces, so you will need excellent bike handling skills and reliable brakes. Plan your ride carefully, ensuring your equipment is in top condition and you are prepared for sustained steep gradients. The route's demanding nature requires significant physical and mental preparation, pushing even seasoned cyclists to their limits.
This eastern loop is part of the larger Fred Whitton Challenge, an annual event held in memory of Fred Whitton, a respected racing secretary. The challenge is renowned for its charitable efforts, raising over £2 million for causes like Macmillan Cancer Support, air ambulances, and youth cycling projects. Often dubbed "The Daddy of them all" by Cycling Weekly, it ingeniously incorporates almost all major Lake District passes, offering a comprehensive and formidable tour of the region's most challenging ascents. The event is also known for its excellent organization and strong community support.
5.0
(4)
601
riders
79.8km
04:05
1,300m
1,300m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(2)
331
riders
46.3km
02:36
780m
770m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Distance 3.26 km
Uphill 240 m
Downhill 10 m
Weather
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Friday 15 May
11°C
2°C
91 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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