BUTTERTUBS PASS

SWALEDALE, RICHMOND

The giant Buttertubs Pass is brilliant to climb from either direction. The south side kicks up steep then gradually alleviates as it approaches the top, but the north is the toughest, with two sectors of brutal gradient to conquer. Leaving the B6270 from Thwaite, Cliff Gate Road is tough straightaway, with a stretch of 14% that, although easing slightly, doesn’t allow for rest. The immaculate surface pulls you towards an Alpine-style zig-zag of hairpins. The gradient is a fearsome 25% here – switching right, left, then right again, you must keep your momentum through these sharp corners. Unfortunately your reward is a gaping cattle grid, with gaps so large whole cows could slip through them. A sharp, snaking, downhill stretch – the sheer drop to the left fenced off – takes you on to the final section. With the summit in sight you have to heave your bike up yet another 20% section that will have you begging the climb to end.