Located in the breathtaking Yorkshire Dales National Park in England, Buttertubs Pass is a gorgeous mountain road that has gained immense popularity among tourists, geologists and history enthusiasts alike. A historic pass, with an intriguing name and dramatic natural beauty.
I love driving over the pass at any opportunity. It may be only 5 and a half miles of road, but even Jeremy Clarkson himself described it as “England’s only truly spectacular road” and that the view at the top makes him slow down, not just because of the drop, but also because the “view is just epic”. I don’t disagree.
Let’s take a deeper look into the allure of Buttertubs Pass, exploring its historical importance and its status as a must-visit destination for those seeking awe-inspiring landscapes.
Origins of the Name Buttertubs
The name Buttertubs has sparked much curiosity and speculation through time. Near the summit of the pass are some dramatic potholes that are up to 20 metres (66 ft) deep.
The main prevailing theory suggests that the name Buttertubs derives from the times that this was an old packhorse route. Butter was made in Swaledale in the meadows at Muker then had to be taken over the pass to Hawes in Wensleydale for market. On their way back over to Swaledale after market day it is said they hung their unsold butter down in the holes to keep them cool, a natural refigerator, to save taking them back down and up again each time.
Another theory attributes the name to the shape of the sinkholes resembling the shape of old-fashioned butter churns. Regardless of its exact origin, the name Buttertubs has become synonymous with the pass and adds to its mystique.
Geographical Setting
The route of Buttertubs Pass stretches 5.5 miles from Simonside, near Hardraw in Wensleydale, over to Thwaite, near Muker in Swaledale. At the summit of the pass you are at a height of 525 metres (1690 ft).
On a fine day if heading into the Yorkshire Dales from Cumbria I take the time to avoid going around via motorway and A roads. I set off a few minutes earlier  and take the wonderful scenic route first over the Howgills from Kirkby Stephen down into Swaledale.
From here you get the pleasure heading east through Swaledale itself on the B6270. Quite frankly a very scenic drive in itself. Then upon reaching the little village of Thwaite, just a bit past Keld, it is time to get ready to turn right, southwards and upwards and onto Buttertubs pass.
Enjoying The Drive
On the Swaledale side as you get towards the top the drop is at it’s sharpest with winding bends. Hence the ‘sort of’ barrier to make you feel that little bit safer.
Before reaching the barrier though you will see a landmark I always like to stop at. A bench that looks out and down over Swaledale. A beautiful view in any season.
Driving up and over the pass can leave you in awe but of course a fine line occurs between looking around at the gorgeous scenery and keeping an eye on the road as it twists, turns and with steep tight bends.
Then, if heading from north to south you reach the top, and over the brim you get the huge views looking down into Wensleydale, with the unmistakable sight of Ingleborough standing tall in the distance mid view.
Cycling
Another sight you will see when driving over is plenty of cyclists. The road is a famous challenge for many a road cyclist wanting a big workout with a view.
The 2014 Grand Depart of The Tour De France took place in the Yorkshire Dales and Buttertubs Pass was the second climb of the King of The Mountains. Côte de Buttertubs.
Conclusion
If you want to take a great drive with some amazing scenery you can go to so many places in the Yorkshire Dales to do so of course. But this stretch of road, Buttertubs Pass, is incredible all in itself. Enjoy the ride.
If you want to take a great drive with some amazing scenery you can go to so many places in the Yorkshire Dales to do so. But this stretch of road is incredible all in itself.
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