Winnats Pass: Dramatic Limestone Gorge in Hope Valley
Experience the breathtaking limestone gorge of Winnats Pass, a scenic and historic route through the heart of Hope Valley’s Peak District.
Winnats Pass is a striking limestone gorge near Castleton in Hope Valley, Derbyshire. This narrow, steep-sided valley features a winding road flanked by towering cliffs and small cave openings, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Peak District landscape. Popular for scenic drives, hiking, and photography, it connects Castleton to Mam Tor and is steeped in natural beauty and geological interest.
A brief summary to Winnats Pass
- Hope Valley, S33 8WA, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure limited parking near the pass.
- Wear sturdy, grippy footwear for walking the steep and uneven paths.
- Visit the viewpoint at the top of the pass for spectacular panoramic views.
- Be cautious when driving the narrow, winding road; larger vehicles may require extra care.
- Explore nearby show caves in Castleton for a complementary underground adventure.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Winnats Pass is straightforward via the A623; parking is limited with pay & display at Speedwell Cavern car park (£3.50–£6 depending on duration) and free roadside parking on Old Mam Tor Road. The road is narrow and steep, so cautious driving is advised. Travel time from Sheffield is about 40–60 minutes.
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Train and Bus
Take a train to Hope station on the Manchester Piccadilly–Sheffield line. From Hope, catch the hourly bus 272 or 271 to Castleton (approx. 15 minutes), then walk or cycle to Winnats Pass within 30–45 minutes. Train fares vary, bus tickets cost around £3–£5.
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Walking
For active visitors, walking from Castleton village to Winnats Pass viewpoint takes about 30–40 minutes over uneven, steep terrain. Suitable sturdy footwear is recommended. The route offers scenic views but is not wheelchair accessible.
Winnats Pass location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet 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 of the Peak District
Winnats Pass is a dramatic limestone gorge carved through the hills of the Peak District, creating a narrow, steep-sided valley that is both visually stunning and geologically significant. The pass cuts through Carboniferous limestone, revealing layers that tell a story of ancient seas and natural forces shaping the landscape over millions of years. Its cliffs rise sharply on either side of the winding road, creating a canyon-like atmosphere unique in the region.A Scenic Route with Rich Natural Features
The road through Winnats Pass is a short but steep and narrow route connecting the village of Castleton with the area around Mam Tor and Buxton. Driving or cycling this route offers spectacular views of Hope Valley's rolling hills and the distinctive ridges that frame the valley. Along the pass, visitors can spot small cave openings embedded in the limestone cliffs, adding to the area's mystical allure. The surrounding landscape is a patchwork of green fields, rugged hills, and scattered woodlands, typical of the Peak District's natural charm.Outdoor Activities and Visitor Experience
Winnats Pass is a favored destination for walkers and hikers who enjoy the challenge of its steep paths and the reward of panoramic views. A popular viewpoint at the top of the pass offers sweeping vistas over Castleton village and the wider Hope Valley. The area also serves as a gateway to several nearby show caves, including Peak Cavern, Blue John Cavern, and Treak Cliff Cavern, which attract visitors interested in exploring underground wonders. The pass itself is accessible year-round but can occasionally close in winter due to snow or icy conditions.Practical Information and Access
Parking near Winnats Pass is limited, with the closest paid option at Speedwell Cavern car park near the bottom entrance, though spaces are few. Free parking is available along Old Mam Tor Road before turning onto Winnats Pass, and a layby at the top of the pass provides easier access to the viewpoint. The road is open to vehicles but is narrow and winding, requiring cautious driving, especially when encountering larger vehicles. Public transport options include trains to Hope station, followed by a bus to Castleton, from where the pass is a short walk.Conservation and Visitor Etiquette
As part of the Peak District National Park, Winnats Pass is a protected natural area where visitors are encouraged to respect the environment. Staying on marked paths helps preserve delicate flora and prevents erosion. Littering is prohibited, and wildlife should be observed without disturbance. The area’s natural beauty and geological features make it a valuable site for both education and recreation.Local Legends and Cultural Significance
Winnats Pass carries a sense of mystery and folklore, with tales of ancient gatherings and historical events linked to the area. Its striking landscape has inspired artists and writers, contributing to the cultural heritage of the Peak District. The pass remains a symbol of the region’s rugged beauty and outdoor adventure spirit, drawing visitors seeking both tranquility and exploration.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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Level 2
12.2 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
Corporation
21.9 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Dempseys Bar and Club
22.0 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Fez Sheffield
22.0 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
22.0 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
Popworld - Sheffield
22.1 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
The Viper Rooms
22.1 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
Al Ahsa Night Club
22.2 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Night Kitchen
22.2 km
Dive into Sheffield's industrial heartbeat at The Night Kitchen, where former cutlery factory walls pulse with electronic beats until dawn in a raw, inclusive nightlife haven.
Code Sheffield
22.2 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
The Leadmill
22.6 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
Temple Sheffield
22.6 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
Tank
22.7 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
Plot 22
22.9 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
Waikiki Beach Bar
27.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Adventurous
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- 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
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
