Yorkshire Dales · England
Buttertubs Pass
Buttertubs Pass links Wensleydale and Swaledale over high moor, named after the deep limestone potholes beside the road. Jeremy Clarkson once called it England's only truly spectacular road, and it lives up to the hype.
- Distance
- ≈ 6 miles
- Twistiness
- 4/5
- Best season
- May – September
- Best for
- Cars & bikes
Why go
What makes Buttertubs Pass special
- Steep drops into the valley on the Swaledale side
- The Buttertubs limestone shafts beside the road
- Views across two dales from the summit
Watch out for
- Narrow with low or no barriers on the drops
- Steep gradients and blind summits
- Livestock and cattle grids
Road conditions change. Check closures, weather and local restrictions before you set off, and always ride and drive within the limit.
As a group
Taking a group over Buttertubs Pass
Buttertubs Pass works well for groups. Brief the group at Hawes, keep two-second gaps through the bends and regroup at Hawes. Sweep can see who's behind throughout.
One shared route
Everyone on the same line from the start.
Lead and sweep
Sweep sees exactly who's behind.
Planned regroups
Stop at Hawes.
FAQ
Buttertubs Pass: common questions
How long is Buttertubs Pass?+
Buttertubs Pass runs for about 6 miles from Hawes to Thwaite in Yorkshire Dales.
When is the best time to drive or ride Buttertubs Pass?+
The best season is May – September. Go early in the day to avoid traffic, and check for closures in poor weather.
Is Buttertubs Pass good for motorcycles?+
Yes — Buttertubs Pass is a popular motorcycle road with a twistiness rating of 4 out of 5. Narrow with low or no barriers on the drops.
Can I ride Buttertubs Pass as a group?+
Buttertubs Pass works well for groups. Brief the group at Hawes, keep two-second gaps through the bends and regroup at Hawes. Sweep can see who's behind throughout.
Keep riding
More roads you'll like
Fleet Moss
Fleet Moss is one of the highest roads in Yorkshire and among the steepest climbs in the Dales. It links Wensleydale to Wharfedale over lonely moorland via the tiny hamlets of Langstrothdale.
Swaledale Road
The B6270 follows the Swale from Richmond through Reeth, Muker and Keld, then climbs over the watershed to Nateby and Kirkby Stephen. It is the Dales at their most beautiful and a joy on two wheels.
Skipton to Harrogate
The A59 crosses the edge of the Dales via Bolton Abbey and Blubberhouses Moor. It is a fast, open main road with great sweepers — and one where speed enforcement and safety campaigns are very visible.