Nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, Buttertubs Pass offers a breathtaking and exhilarating drive that promises to captivate adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. With its winding roads, dramatic landscapes, and stunning vistas, this mountain pass is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the English countryside. In this comprehensive article, we will guide you through Buttertubs Pass, delving into its fascinating history, remarkable attractions, and offering valuable tips to make the most of your visit.
Where is the Buttertubs Pass located?
Located within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Buttertubs Pass is a picturesque mountain road. It connects the charming market towns of Hawes and Muker. Climbing to an elevation of 1,729 feet (527 meters), this thrilling drive offers spectacular views of the surrounding moorlands, valleys, and limestone formations, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The map below shows where this road is located:
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Information about the road:
Yorkshire Dales, Hiking Trails, and Cycling Routes The Yorkshire Dales, a region renowned for its diverse landscapes, is home to some of England’s most striking scenery, including rolling hills, lush valleys, and dramatic limestone formations. Buttertubs Pass serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the area, with a wide range of hiking trails, cycling routes, and outdoor activities.
Cycling enthusiasts will also find plenty of routes to explore around Buttertubs Pass. The area is home to several challenging climbs and leisurely rides. It allow cyclists to immerse themselves in the stunning scenery while getting some exercise. The pass itself is a popular cycling route, having been featured in the 2014 Tour de France, and continues to attract cyclists from around the world.
History of the Buttertubs Pass:
Buttertubs Pass derives its name from the unique limestone formations known as the Buttertubs, which are a series of deep potholes formed by the erosion of the surrounding limestone. Local legend has it that these potholes were once used by farmers to store their butter during the hot summer months, hence the name “Buttertubs.”
In addition to the natural beauty, the Yorkshire Dales also offers a rich cultural experience. Visitors can explore the region’s industrial heritage, with connections to the lead mining industry. As well as the area’s agricultural history. The nearby market towns of Hawes and Muker provide a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the Dales, with local shops, pubs, and museums offering a warm welcome to visitors.
Road preview:
Watching this YouTube video that displays a portion of the road will give you a preview of the journey:
How to get to the Buttertubs Pass:
Buttertubs Pass is easily accessible from the nearby towns of Hawes and Muker. From Hawes, follow the B6255 road north towards Muker, and from Muker, take the B6255 road south towards Hawes. Both routes will guide you to the base of Buttertubs Pass, where your adventure begins.
Another dope road in the U.K. is the Hardknott Pass.
You can obviously visualize how to get there on this approximative map of the drive:
Is the Buttertubs Pass open?
Although being open all year round, Buttertubs Pass is most enjoyable in the spring and summer when the weather is friendlier. It is important to verify local weather and road conditions before starting your travel. Indeed snow and ice during the winter months can make driving more difficult.
Buttertubs Pass is an unforgettable destination for anyone eager to explore the beauty and adventure of the Yorkshire Dales. With its challenging drive, captivating views, and diverse attractions, this mountain pass has something to offer everyone. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer, a cycling enthusiast, or simply seeking a scenic drive through the heart of the English countryside, the drive is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
Picture credit: By Kreuzschnabel – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=27303929
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