Winnats Pass
A dramatic limestone gorge where ancient geology meets windswept peaks in the heart of the Peak District.
Winnats Pass is a dramatic limestone gorge carved through towering rock faces in the Peak District, located west of Castleton village. The narrow, steep road winds through this spectacular natural cleft, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Hope Valley and high limestone ridges. Named for the swirling winds that funnel through the pass, this striking landscape has inspired countless visitors and even featured in Game of Thrones prequel scenes. Whether driving through or walking the scenic route, Winnats Pass delivers an unforgettable experience of raw geological drama.
A brief summary to Winnats Pass
- Hope Valley, S33 8WA, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer vehicles. The narrow road can feel congested during peak summer weekends.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions: Speedwell Cavern at the base, Mam Tor for ridge walks, and Castleton village for refreshments and visitor information.
- If driving, note the steep gradient (over 28%) and narrow width—caravans and large vehicles are not recommended. The road is closed to buses and vehicles over 7.5 tonnes.
- Wear sturdy footwear if walking; the terrain is uneven and can be muddy after rain. The exposed position means winds can be strong—bring a windproof layer.
- Look for Hieracium naviense, a rare hawkweed found nowhere else on Earth, growing on the limestone outcrops during the growing season.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Parking
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car
From Castleton village, follow signs for Winnats Pass or use postcode S33 8WA in GPS navigation. The pass is located west of the village. Drive time through the pass is approximately 3 minutes. Free parking is available at Speedwell Cavern car park at the base of the pass, or throughout Castleton village. Note: the road has a maximum gradient of over 28% and is narrow; caravans and vehicles over 7.5 tonnes are not permitted. The road is not suitable for large coaches or buses.
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By Train and Bus
Take a train to Hope station on the Manchester Piccadilly to Sheffield line. From Hope station, walk to the bottom of Station Road where there is a bus stop. The 272/271 bus runs hourly to Castleton (journey time approximately 5–6 minutes). From Castleton, Winnats Pass is a short walk away. Alternatively, walk from Hope station to Castleton in approximately one hour.
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Walking from Castleton
Leave Castleton village and follow the roadside path on the right side of the road as it ascends Winnats Pass. The walk takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the top and 15 minutes to descend. The terrain is uneven with various gates to pass through. Sturdy footwear is essential, and the exposed position means winds can be strong. The path is well-defined but can be muddy after rain.
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Cycling
Winnats Pass is accessible by bicycle and features regularly in the Tour of the Peak cycle race each autumn. The steep gradient (over 28%) and narrow road make it challenging but rewarding for experienced cyclists. Approach from Castleton village or as part of a longer Peak District cycling route. Journey time depends on fitness level and route chosen.
Winnats Pass location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Winnats Pass
A Corridor Through Ancient Stone
Winnats Pass is a limestone gorge and hill pass located west of Castleton village in the Peak District National Park, managed by the National Trust as part of its High Peak Estate. The name derives from 'wind gates'—a fitting description for the swirling winds that funnel through this narrow ravine. The road cuts steeply through towering limestone ridges, rising over 28% gradient as it climbs from the Hope Valley floor. The dramatic landscape, with its jagged limestone edges and high vertical walls, creates an almost otherworldly atmosphere that has captivated visitors for centuries and inspired filmmakers seeking dramatic natural backdrops.Geological Wonders Spanning Millions of Years
The gorge's formation tells a story stretching back approximately 340 million years. The limestone rocks that frame Winnats Pass were originally formed as a reef fringing a shallow lagoon during the Lower Carboniferous period. Over vast timescales, these ancient reef structures were carved and shaped by water erosion and glacial processes, creating the steep-sided ravine visible today. A small outcrop of fossiliferous rock near Speedwell Cavern at the pass's base contains shelly and crinoidal remains, evidence of an ancient underwater cleft within the active reef. This geological richness makes Winnats Pass a living textbook of Earth's deep history, where you can literally walk through layers of time.A Unique Flora and Haunting Legends
Winnats Pass is home to Hieracium naviense, a species of hawkweed found nowhere else in the world. This native perennial plant grows on the limestone outcrops and was first discovered in 1966, adding botanical significance to the site's natural importance. The pass is also steeped in local legend. According to tradition, a young couple named Alan and Clara eloped in 1758, only to be robbed and murdered by miners as they travelled through Winnats Pass en route to Peak Forest Chapel. Their bodies were hidden in a mine shaft and discovered ten years later—a haunting tale that adds a layer of human history to this dramatic landscape.From Ancient Access Rallies to Modern Traffic
In the 1930s, Winnats Pass became a focal point for access rallies supporting greater public access to Peak District moorlands, drawing crowds of up to 10,000 people at their peak. This movement coincided with the famous Mass Trespass of Kinder Scout, reflecting the era's struggle for outdoor access rights. The pass's modern significance changed dramatically in 1979 when the main A625 road at nearby Mam Tor was permanently closed due to subsidence and landslides. This forced Winnats Pass to become the primary route for westbound traffic from Castleton, transforming it from a scenic byway into a vital transport corridor. Today, the road's narrowness and steep gradient restrict it to vehicles under 7.5 tonnes, making it unsuitable for buses and coaches. The pass regularly features in the Tour of the Peak cycle race each autumn, attracting competitive cyclists who relish its challenging gradient.Walking and Driving Through the Ravine
The journey through Winnats Pass takes approximately 20 minutes to ascend on foot and 15 minutes to descend, making it ideal for incorporating into longer walking routes around Castleton. The walk begins from the village and follows the roadside path on the right, passing through various gates as you climb. At the top of the pass, a viewpoint accessible via a dirt path offers panoramic views framing the village and Hope Valley in a canvas of intricate hillside ridges. Driving through the pass is equally striking—the three-minute drive delivers the same sense of awe as you navigate the narrow road through the limestone cleft. Many visitors choose to experience both, driving through for the full sensory impact and then walking sections to appreciate the geological detail and surrounding landscape at a slower pace.Gateway to Wider Peak District Exploration
Winnats Pass serves as a natural gateway to exploring the broader Peak District. Nearby attractions include Speedwell Cavern at the pass's base, a karst cave accessed through a flooded lead mine and a popular tourist destination. Mam Tor, known locally as the 'shivering mountain' and topped by an Iron Age hill fort, looms large over the valley and offers panoramic walks along the Great Ridge. The scenic village of Edale lies just beyond the pass, accessible via the narrow road over Mam Tor and Rushup Edge, where August heather turns the valley purple. The Castleton Visitor Centre, combining the village Historical Society's Museum and the National Park Information Centre, provides context for understanding the area's rich human and natural heritage.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
- Adventurous
- Unique
- Adrenaline-pumping
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
- Physically Demanding
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
