Highlight • Natural Monument
View of Ellerkin Scar
Road cycling
5.0
(10)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
October 3, 2022
Road cycling
It is am impressive sight looking north from the road over Newbiggin Pasture.
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near View of Ellerkin Scar
4.3
(3)
126
riders
84.8km
04:14
1,170m
1,170m
Embark on a difficult road cycling adventure with the Richmond loop to Buttertubs Pass, a challenging route through the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This 52.7 miles (84.8 km) loop features a significant elevation gain of 3841 feet (1171 metres) and takes around 4 hours and 14 minutes to complete. You will encounter demanding climbs, including sections of Buttertubs Pass with gradients up to 20%, alongside picturesque views of dry stone walls, rolling hills, and open moorland. The charming market town of Richmond, with its Norman castle and cobbled marketplace, serves as your starting point. You will also see the distinctive 20-meter-deep limestone potholes that give Buttertubs Pass its name. The route offers stunning panoramas over Swaledale and Wensleydale, making it a truly rewarding ride for those with very good fitness.
When planning your visit, be prepared for exposed conditions on the upper slopes of the climb, where you might encounter wandering sheep. The road surfaces are generally well-paved, but the steepness of the climbs and sharp descents with tight hairpins require careful handling. Starting from Richmond provides easy access to this loop. This route is best enjoyed when the weather is clear, allowing you to fully appreciate the expansive views and tackle the challenging ascents safely. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as the Dales can be unpredictable.
Buttertubs Pass is an iconic climb in the cycling world, recognized in the "100 Greatest Cycling Climbs" list. Its fame grew significantly when it was featured as the second and highest categorized climb in Stage One of the 2014 Tour de France. The pass was also intended to be part of the 2019 UCI Road World Championships. The unique name comes from a historical practice where farmers would cool their butter in the deep limestone potholes while resting on their way to market. This route offers a chance to ride a piece of cycling history while experiencing the achingly beautiful surroundings of the Yorkshire Dales.
4.8
(5)
107
riders
45.9km
01:59
410m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.8
(5)
84
riders
40.0km
01:50
400m
400m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 250 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Thursday 20 August
14°C
6°C
65 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December