Winnats Pass: Dramatic Limestone Gorge in Hope Valley
Experience the breathtaking limestone gorge and swirling winds of Winnats Pass, a dramatic natural landmark in the heart of Hope Valley.
Winnats Pass is a striking limestone gorge and hill pass located west of Castleton village in the Peak District National Park, England. Known for its towering limestone ridges and swirling winds, this narrow, steep road cuts through the landscape offering breathtaking views of Hope Valley. The pass is steeped in geological history, local legends, and is a popular spot for walkers, drivers, and nature enthusiasts seeking dramatic scenery and unique flora.
A brief summary to Winnats Pass
- Hope Valley, S33 8WA, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit Speedwell Cavern at the base of the pass for a unique underground experience in a flooded lead mine.
- Drive or walk through the pass early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Wear sturdy footwear if hiking, as paths can be steep and uneven along the gorge.
- Combine your visit with a walk up Mam Tor for stunning panoramic views of Hope Valley.
- Check local weather conditions before visiting, as swirling winds can be strong and sudden.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Winnats Pass from Castleton takes about 5 minutes via local roads. The narrow and steep road limits large vehicles; parking is available near Speedwell Cavern. No tolls apply.
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Hope station on the Sheffield-Manchester line, then catch a local bus (routes 271 or 272) to Castleton, a 5-6 minute ride. From Castleton, Winnats Pass is a short walk. Train fares vary, bus tickets cost around £3-5.
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Walking
From Castleton village center, walk approximately 1 km to the base of Winnats Pass. The terrain is steep and uneven in places, suitable for moderately fit walkers. Allow 20-30 minutes.
Winnats Pass location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Winnats Pass
Geological Marvel Carved Through Time
Winnats Pass is a spectacular limestone gorge formed approximately 340 million years ago during the Lower Carboniferous period. The gorge cuts steeply through ancient reef formations that once fringed a shallow lagoon, revealing layers of fossil-rich rock known as 'beach beds' at its base. These rocks contain remnants of marine life such as shelly and crinoidal remains, offering a glimpse into a prehistoric underwater canyon. The towering limestone ridges that flank the narrow road create a dramatic cleft that has fascinated visitors and geologists alike.A Path Steeped in History and Legend
Situated west of Castleton, Winnats Pass has long been a vital route through the Peak District’s rugged terrain. In the 1930s, it was a rallying site for access campaigns advocating for public rights to the moorlands, coinciding with the famous Mass Trespass of Kinder Scout. Local folklore tells of a tragic tale involving a young couple, Alan and Clara, who were murdered in the pass in 1758, their bodies hidden in a mine shaft—adding an eerie dimension to the landscape’s allure.Natural Beauty and Unique Wildlife
The pass is not only a geological wonder but also a habitat for rare species. Notably, it is the only known home of Hieracium naviense, a species of hawkweed discovered growing on the limestone outcrops. The swirling winds that give Winnats its name create a dynamic environment, while the surrounding Hope Valley offers panoramic views of Mam Tor, Losehill Pike, and the village of Castleton.Walking and Driving Experiences
Visitors can explore Winnats Pass by foot or car. The 4.5 km walk from Castleton up through the pass takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, passing the entrance to Speedwell Cavern—a flooded lead mine and popular tourist attraction. The road itself is narrow and steep, with gradients over 28%, limiting access to smaller vehicles and prohibiting buses and coaches. Driving through the pass offers breathtaking views framed by jagged limestone pinnacles, while walking allows for a closer appreciation of the geological features and local flora.Nearby Attractions and Scenic Highlights
Close to Winnats Pass lies Mam Tor, known as the 'Shivering Mountain', crowned with the remnants of an Iron Age hill fort. The Great Ridge trail extends from Mam Tor, offering spectacular panoramic vistas over the Hope and Edale valleys. Visitors often combine a visit to Winnats Pass with stops at nearby Speedwell Cavern, the village of Castleton, and the scenic Hope Valley, making for a rich outdoor experience.Conservation and Visitor Considerations
Managed by the National Trust, Winnats Pass is a protected landscape within the High Peak Estate. Its narrow road and steep gradients require careful driving, and large vehicles are discouraged. The area’s natural and historical significance calls for respectful visitation to preserve its unique environment and heritage. Facilities such as accessible toilets and cafes are available in nearby Edale and Castleton, enhancing visitor comfort while exploring this iconic Peak District location.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bamford Edge
7.7 km
Bamford Edge offers stunning panoramic views of Ladybower Reservoir and Hope Valley, a must-visit gritstone escarpment in the Peak District.
Carl Wark
12.7 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Baslow Edge
15.0 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
Peak District National Park Authority
15.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Ecclesall Woods
19.1 km
Ecclesall Woods: A lush escape in Sheffield, perfect for outdoor adventures, serene walks, and connecting with nature amidst stunning landscapes.
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet
19.2 km
Explore the rich industrial heritage of Sheffield at Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, where history comes to life in a beautifully preserved setting.
Haddon Hall
19.2 km
Explore the enchanting Haddon Hall, a historical gem in the Peak District with stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and delightful dining experiences.
Anson Engine Museum
19.2 km
Discover the Anson Engine Museum in Poynton, where engineering history comes to life through fascinating exhibits and live demonstrations of remarkable machines.
Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow
19.4 km
Explore the ancient wonders of Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow, a historical landmark steeped in mystery and breathtaking Derbyshire landscapes.
Endcliffe Park
19.6 km
Explore the beauty of Endcliffe Park in Sheffield, a perfect blend of nature, community, and tranquility for all visitors seeking relaxation.
The Endcliffe Campus
19.8 km
A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Endcliffe Park Playground
19.8 km
Discover fun and adventure at Endcliffe Park Playground in Sheffield, a perfect family destination with scenic parkland and vibrant play areas.
Beauchief Abbey
19.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Beauchief Abbey, a gem in Sheffield's rich heritage.
Chelsea Park
20.0 km
Discover Chelsea Park in Sheffield: a peaceful retreat with stunning gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics in a tranquil environment.
White Nancy
20.2 km
Historic hilltop folly offering sweeping Cheshire Plain views and a symbol of Bollington’s heritage and community spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Treak Cliff Cavern
0.5 km
Explore a working Blue John stone mine with stunning geological formations and rare minerals in the Peak District.
Blue John Cavern
0.5 km
Discover Britain’s rare Blue John stone in Castleton’s spectacular limestone caves, where history and geology intertwine beneath the Peak District.
Speedwell Cavern
0.6 km
Explore a historic lead mine on a unique underground boat tour beneath the Peak District’s dramatic Winnats Pass.
National Trust - Dark Peak
0.9 km
Explore the wild, windswept moorlands and iconic gritstone edges of the Peak District’s Dark Peak, a haven for nature and history lovers.
Mam Tor
1.0 km
Discover Mam Tor, the iconic 'Mother Hill' of the Peak District, offering ancient history, dramatic landslips, and panoramic views over Hope Valley.
Peak Cavern
1.5 km
Explore Britain’s largest natural cave entrance and historic rope-making cavern beneath Castleton’s iconic cliffs.
Castleton Visitor Centre
1.6 km
Your welcoming gateway to Castleton’s history, nature, and the Peak District’s breathtaking landscapes.
Cave Dale
1.6 km
Explore the rugged limestone valley of Cave Dale, where dramatic cliffs frame historic Peveril Castle in the heart of the Peak District.
Peveril Castle
1.6 km
Explore the atmospheric Norman ruins of Peveril Castle, crowned by sweeping views over Castleton and the Peak District’s scenic valleys.
Castleton
1.6 km
Discover Castleton, Hope Valley’s charming village famed for ancient castles, unique Blue John caverns, and stunning Peak District landscapes.
Eldon Hole
2.5 km
A legendary 55-metre pothole steeped in geology, folklore, and Peak District heritage.
Edale
3.0 km
Edale, nestled in Hope Valley, is the Peak District’s scenic gateway and starting point of the iconic Pennine Way, offering stunning hiking and rich heritage.
Dark Peak Estate
3.2 km
Explore the wild moorlands and gritstone edges of the Dark Peak Estate, a dramatic upland landscape in the heart of the Peak District National Park.
Peak District National Park
4.7 km
England’s first national park, a vast playground of moorlands, caves, and trails offering adventure, heritage, and breathtaking landscapes.
The Blind Bull
5.2 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering seasonal British cuisine, cozy rooms, and warm countryside hospitality in Little Hucklow.
Essential places to dine
1530 The Restaurant
1.7 km
Charming Italian restaurant in Castleton offering fresh homemade dishes and vegan options in a cozy historic setting within the Peak District.
Ye Olde Nags Head
1.7 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Castleton offering cozy pub vibes, hearty British fare, and a lively community atmosphere.
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese Inn
1.9 km
Historic village inn and pub in Castleton offering cozy rooms, hearty English fare, and a warm welcome in the heart of the Peak District.
The Anchor Inn
6.9 km
A classic Peak District pub offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Tideswell.
Derbyshire Eats
7.0 km
Experience refined dining and bespoke catering excellence in the charming village of Tideswell at Derbyshire Eats.
The Merchant's Yard
7.2 km
A charming boutique hotel and award-winning restaurant in Tideswell, blending historic character with seasonal Peak District cuisine.
The Horse & Jockey
7.5 km
A cozy, traditional village pub and B&B in Tideswell offering hearty meals, warm fires, and comfortable rooms in the Peak District.
The Lamb Inn
8.5 km
Historic 18th-century pub in Chinley offering hearty British fare, real ales, and cozy en-suite rooms near Peak District attractions.
The Paper Mill Inn
9.4 km
Charming historic country pub and inn in Whitehough, Peak District, renowned for real ales, seasonal food, and warm local hospitality.
Old Hall Inn
9.5 km
A charming Georgian inn in the Peak District offering refined pub dining, cozy rooms, and a warm welcome amid stunning countryside.
The Hanging Gate
9.6 km
Family-run pub and restaurant in the scenic High Peak offering hearty meals, event hosting, and outside catering in Chapel-en-le-Frith.
The Pack Horse Hayfield
10.6 km
A Michelin-recommended gastropub in Hayfield serving seasonal British cuisine and local ales in a warm, welcoming Peak District setting.
The Crispin
12.7 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Great Longstone offering hearty British fare and local ales in the heart of the Peak District.
White Lion
12.8 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering hearty British fare, warm welcomes, and a cozy village atmosphere in Great Longstone.
The Little Mill @ Rowarth
13.7 km
A welcoming country inn in Rowarth offering cozy rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and scenic Peak District charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Outdoor Shop
1.5 km
Your essential outfitter for quality outdoor gear and clothing in Hope Valley, perfect for Peak District adventures.
The Old Barn
1.6 km
A practical outdoor and gift shop in Castleton’s Market Place, perfect for stocking up before exploring the Peak District’s hills and caves.
The Original Blue John Craft Shop
1.7 km
Discover unique handcrafted Blue John jewellery and gifts in Castleton’s charming craft shop, celebrating Derbyshire’s rare gemstone heritage.
The Causeway Shop
1.7 km
Discover unique gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Castleton’s picturesque Hope Valley at The Causeway Shop.
Antique and Unique
7.0 km
Three decades of authentic antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of the Peak District.
Bluebird’s Nest UK
7.8 km
Handpicked gifts and treasures in the heart of the Peak District's historic market town.
Outside.co.uk
9.7 km
Your essential outdoor clothing and equipment shop in Hathersage, offering expert gear and a cozy café for Peak District adventurers.
Pookie - Wookie Ltd
9.8 km
Handcrafted artisan ceramics by a mother-daughter duo in the scenic Hope Valley, perfect for unique and meaningful gifts.
Delightful Living
10.3 km
Discover unique artisan gifts in the heart of Eyam’s historic craft centre, blending heritage with handcrafted charm.
The Springs Shopping Centre
11.7 km
Buxton's central shopping hub with 450 parking spaces and popular high street chains.
Atticusboo
11.8 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at Atticusboo, Buxton’s charming independent boutique in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
Decor Boutique
11.8 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish homewares in Buxton’s charming Decor Boutique, nestled in the historic Cavendish Arcade.
Fiveways Country Store
12.0 km
Charming family-owned shop in Buxton’s Market Place offering unique gifts and local artisan products in the heart of the Peak District.
Jo Royle Outdoor
12.1 km
Discover quality outdoor gear and expert advice at Jo Royle Outdoor, Buxton’s beloved independent boutique for adventurers.
Ivie & luxe
12.3 km
A stylish boutique in Whaley Bridge offering unique clothing, gifts, and homewares with a local touch – perfect for thoughtful souvenirs and personal treats.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The George
1.6 km
Traditional British charm meets cozy comfort in Castleton’s welcoming pub with rooms, great food, and scenic Hope Valley views.
The Castle
1.6 km
A historic pub in Castleton offering hearty British fare, scenic views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Hope Valley.
Bulls Head, Castleton
1.6 km
Historic pub and cozy inn in Castleton offering traditional British fare, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Peak District.
The Rambler Inn
2.9 km
Cozy stone-built pub and inn in Edale, offering hearty fare, local ales, and a warm welcome for Peak District hikers.
The Old Nags Head
3.4 km
Historic 16th-century country pub at the start of the Pennine Way, offering rustic charm, real ales, and hearty fare in Edale’s scenic Peak District.
Star Inn
7.2 km
A classic Peak District pub in Tideswell offering hearty pies, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in a charming village setting.
The George Inn
7.2 km
Traditional Peak District pub and cozy B&B in Tideswell offering hearty food, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere.
Ladybower Inn
8.0 km
A cozy 3-star inn in Hope Valley offering hearty pub meals, friendly hospitality, and scenic access to Ladybower Reservoir and Peak District trails.
Red Lion Inn
8.1 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
The Barrel Inn
8.2 km
Historic hilltop inn offering cozy rooms, excellent local cuisine, and breathtaking views over Hope Valley and the Peak District.
The Bull at Foolow
8.3 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
Anglers Rest
9.4 km
A cozy riverside pub in Millers Dale offering hearty home-cooked meals, local ales, and a tranquil garden in the heart of the Peak District.
San Pedro (By Santiago)
11.8 km
A vibrant Spanish wine bar and cocktail lounge in Buxton offering authentic tapas, fine wines, and a lively atmosphere.
Buxton Brewery Tap House & Cellar Bar
11.9 km
Lively flagship brewery bar in Buxton’s historic heart, serving fresh local beers and seasonal dishes in a rustic, welcoming setting.
The Packhorse Inn
12.4 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
