Buttertubs Pass
A dramatic drive through the Yorkshire Dales, famed for its unique limestone potholes and breathtaking, often moody, landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies
Buttertubs Pass
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic drive through the Yorkshire Dales, famed for its unique limestone potholes and breathtaking, often moody, landscapes.
"Breathtaking drive over the Yorkshire hills on a road that twist & turns with shear drops in places."
Check Weather Before You Go
Pass can close due to weather. Fog & rain are common. :cloud:
Drive Carefully
Steep gradients, sharp turns, and sheer drops. Watch for cyclists! :steering_wheel:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Buttertubs
Along the pass
Unique, deep limestone potholes filled with water, a geological marvel with a fascinating history.
Panoramic Yorkshire Dales Views
Various lookout points
Sweeping vistas of rolling hills, valleys, and dramatic cloud formations. Truly breathtaking.
Challenging Cycling Climb
The entire pass
A renowned route for cyclists with steep gradients and undulating terrain, offering a rewarding challenge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weather Watch is Key
Drive with Caution
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Weather Before You Go
Pass can close due to weather. Fog & rain are common.
Drive Carefully
Steep gradients, sharp turns, and sheer drops. Watch for cyclists! :steering_wheel:
Limited Parking
Pull over briefly for views, not ideal for long stops. :car:
Embrace the Scenery
Stunning views, especially when clouds create dramatic light. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Weather Before You Go
Pass can close due to weather. Fog & rain are common.
Drive Carefully
Steep gradients, sharp turns, and sheer drops. Watch for cyclists! :steering_wheel:
Limited Parking
Pull over briefly for views, not ideal for long stops. :car:
Embrace the Scenery
Stunning views, especially when clouds create dramatic light. :camerawithflash:
Cycle for a Challenge
A famous, tough climb for experienced cyclists.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Buttertubs Pass for its breathtaking Yorkshire Dales scenery and the exhilarating driving experience. The unique geological formations are a highlight, though some note the limited parking and the need for caution due to the road's challenging nature and unpredictable weather.
"Tough undulating climb to one of the prettier (and higher) cols in Yorkshire, particularly when the clouds are doing their thing (which they do a lot of in the Dales) and bringing out the chiaroscuro of the contours.
Bridges two of the prettiest valleys in the Dales, for any cyclist it’s a must, just because of its reputation, and a bit nicer (in my opinion) going south to north), so if you’ve got the legs, give it a try.
And for any motorbiker, it’s also got a great reputation, just be careful of the cyclists frequently on here as the undulations are quite serious at speed."
Gordon Dussart
"Breathtaking drive over the Yorkshire hills on a road that twist & turns with shear drops in places. Stunning views today when the low clouds broke, but on a sunny clear day they would be amazing. Stopping off where possible the distance you could see was literally miles. Certainly worth a visit unless your a nervous driver."
Paul Bennett
"A great road to drive, especially for those passing through. The views are absolutely stunning, with winding turns and dramatic landscapes that make the journey unforgettable. There's not much parking space nearby, so it’s not the best spot if you're planning a long stop, but it’s definitely worth pulling over briefly to take in the scenery. Ideal for a scenic drive—just be cautious, as the road can be narrow in places."
Dinesh Theja Krishnan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Buttertubs Pass is located between Hawes and Thwaite in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It's best accessed by car. Many visitors drive it as part of a scenic road trip, often starting or ending in Hawes.
Yes, it's a popular route for motorcyclists due to its scenic beauty and challenging twists and turns. Just be mindful of cyclists and the road conditions.
Public transport options are very limited. While buses may run to nearby villages like Hawes, reaching the pass itself without a car is difficult.
The road is paved but narrow, with steep gradients and sharp bends. It can be challenging, especially in adverse weather.
No, it's a two-way road. Drivers should exercise caution due to the narrowness and potential for oncoming traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Buttertubs Pass is a public road and there are no entrance fees or tickets required to drive or walk along it.
As a public road, Buttertubs Pass is generally accessible 24/7. However, it can be closed temporarily for safety reasons during severe weather, especially in winter.
There are no designated parking areas with fees. Parking is informal at various lookout points, and spaces can be limited.
The best time is generally from late spring to early autumn for clearer weather. Weekdays and early mornings or late afternoons can offer fewer crowds.
The main restriction is weather-related. The pass can be unsafe or closed during heavy rain, fog, or snow. Always check local conditions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the unique Buttertubs geological formations, the stunning panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales, and the challenging driving/cycling road itself.
The drive itself is relatively short, perhaps 15-30 minutes depending on your speed and how often you stop. However, many visitors extend their trip by exploring nearby villages like Hawes or Keld.
Absolutely! The dramatic landscapes, unique potholes, and changing weather conditions offer incredible photo opportunities.
Yes, you can walk to view the Buttertubs. Be cautious as fences can be unstable and steps uneven.
While the views are family-friendly, caution is advised due to the steep drops and narrow road. Supervise children closely, especially near the potholes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The nearest significant village with dining options is Hawes, which offers pubs and cafes. The Green Dragon Inn is a popular stop for food.
You can, but parking is limited, so it's best to find a safe spot to pull over. Pack out everything you pack in to keep the area clean.
Expect traditional pub fare, including hearty meals like steak and ale pie, fish and chips, and local cheeses.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful light. However, dramatic cloudy days can also create stunning, moody shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The viewpoints overlooking the valleys and the potholes themselves are prime locations. Experiment with different angles to capture the scale and drama.
While sunny days offer clear views, dramatic skies with clouds can create incredible 'chiaroscuro' effects, enhancing the contours of the landscape.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and landowner permissions. Always fly responsibly and be aware of any restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a clear, calm day. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are scarce. The drive can be an adventure in itself, but be mindful of potential motion sickness on the winding roads. A stop in nearby Hawes offers more family-friendly activities and dining options.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
+1 It's often featured in itineraries for Yorkshire Dales road trips, connecting key villages like Hawes and Keld. For the best experience, plan your route to include Buttertubs Pass. Consider driving it from south to north for a slightly different perspective.
🚴 Cyclists
It's a route that many cyclists aspire to conquer, drawn by its reputation and the incredible scenery. Be prepared for a tough workout, especially if cycling into a headwind.
The road is shared with motor vehicles, so visibility and safety are paramount. Ensure you have appropriate gear, including lights and reflective clothing. The views from the top are a well-deserved reward for your efforts. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of the Buttertubs
These geological curiosities are a significant draw for visitors, offering a unique natural spectacle. While some are easily visible from the roadside, others require a short walk. It's important to be cautious when exploring them, as the edges can be unstable and the depths considerable.
Seeing the Buttertubs is a must-do when visiting the pass. They provide a fascinating glimpse into the natural processes that have shaped the Yorkshire Dales landscape over millennia.
Driving and Cycling the Pass
Cyclists also flock to Buttertubs Pass for its challenging terrain. The undulating climbs, with gradients reaching up to 25%, are a serious test of endurance.
Despite the difficulty, the reward is immense: unparalleled views of the Yorkshire Dales and the satisfaction of conquering a legendary route. Both drivers and cyclists should be aware of each other. The road is narrow, and cyclists often share the pass with cars and motorbikes. Courtesy and caution are paramount to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Weather and Best Visiting Conditions
While fog and clouds can create stunning photographic opportunities, they can also obscure visibility, making driving more hazardous. Heavy rain can lead to flash floods and make the road slippery. During colder months, snow and ice can cause the pass to be closed entirely for safety reasons.
For the best experience, aim for a visit between late spring and early autumn. Weekdays, especially outside of peak holiday times, tend to be less crowded. Checking the local weather forecast immediately before your trip is crucial for a safe and enjoyable visit.
+1
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