Rosedale Chimney Bank - Rosedale Abbey

Almost certainly the steepest section of road in Britain, Rosedale Chimney Bank is often included in the Tour of Britain as it is a true 1 in 3 climb at one point. Go south from the village of Rosedale Abbey. The climb is immediately steep - a sign tells you youre about to tackle a 1 in 3 hill. You encounter a cattle grid which doesnt help matters, after which the road hits 25% on the first corner of a switchback, followed by the steepest part of the climb (33%) - a very steep second corner and unforgiving section after it. The climb then relents to about 20% before easing off to the top (view of mines on your right from a car park area) and on to the vast expanse of Spaunton Moor.

The Rosedale Chimney Bank is situated in North Yorkshire . Starting from Rosedale Abbey, the Rosedale Chimney Bank ascent is 1.47 km long. Over this distance, you climb 175 heightmeters. The average percentage thus is 11.9 %.

Look for other sides to climb the Rosedale Chimney Bank.

Story by Mac from Leeds, United Kingdom, submitted on 25/10/2011

I am a new starter to the sport and this is my first season. I''ve tried the climb twice. The first approach unlucky. It was bothering me so I went again and ''yes'' - made it. My bike: Specialized Allez 11.5 kg - ratio 30x22 Shimano 2300. Loved it but would appreciate a lighter bike. Recommend a short climb near Halifax called Lee Lane - a nice 25% on cobbles.

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Story by Paul Christon from Middlesbrough, United Kingdom, submitted on 31/08/2011

I''d put this off for many years as just to get there from the coast is 20 miles of hard climbing. Did it on a road bike with a compact chainset, it is very tough but if you take the bottom section as easy as you can you''ll be okay. The section after the lefthand hairpin is the crucial steepest section, not the hairpins themselves as many people seem to say so go as easy as you can round them. Just tell yourself you can get up it and you will. Good luck!

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Story by Steve from York, United Kingdom, submitted on 10/11/2010

Did this climb under good conditions. The really tough section lasts about 100m. If you take the outside of the 2nd hairpin its easier but the crux to me was the next ramp where my wheel wanted to lift all the time. I used 34x32 (SRAM Apex) on a 8.5kg road bike and did the whole thing seated (too scared to stand up in case I needed to unclip!). Fantastic descent to Hutton-le-Hole follows.

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Story by Tim from Driffield, United Kingdom, submitted on 25/07/2010

Did this climb on a rigid mtb with 1"" tyres. Ratio of something like 22/23, the smaller wheels made it a little easier. Got out of the saddle after the hair pin where its still steep to relieve the pressure and it felt like my wheels had been squared off! Nasty hill that one!

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Story by Ged from Leeds, United Kingdom, submitted on 06/06/2010

Didnt go up it, Had to go down it in heavy rain, very scary. Will return for the challenge of going up soon enough, it looks like it will hurt.

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