Winnats Pass
Just west of Castleton, Winnats Pass is a knife-slash through the limestone plateau — a steep, narrow gorge whose 100-metre walls press in on either side as you climb. Whether you walk it, cycle it or simply pull over and stare, few places in the Peak District deliver such instant, jaw-dropping drama.
A Gorge Carved by Glaciers and Seas
Winnats Pass was sculpted by glacial meltwater carving through lines of weakness in limestone that was itself laid down beneath a tropical sea some 350 million years ago. Fossil sea creatures are still visible in the rock faces if you know where to look.
Its name is a corruption of 'wind gates', a nod to the way gales are funnelled and accelerated through the narrow cleft at speeds that can knock you sideways. On a blustery day it earns that name completely.
The Best Vantage Points
The classic view is from the bottom of the pass looking upward: the road tilts at over 28% and the limestone walls frame a wedge of sky above. Arrive early on a weekday morning and you may have the whole gorge to yourself.
Speedwell Cavern sits right at the foot of the pass, and the Blue John Cavern crowns the top — making the walk from bottom to summit a natural cavern-hopping itinerary with a spectacular backdrop throughout.
Walking and Cycling the Pass
The pass is banned to coaches and HGVs, keeping it relatively peaceful. Cyclists tackle it as one of the Peak District's most iconic climbs, while walkers can follow the verge path and stop wherever the views demand.
For the finest panorama, continue on foot to the ridge above the pass where the Hope Valley and Edale Valley open up on either side in a sweep of green and gold.
Winnats Pass on video
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