The road
The A592 from Windermere is the gentler approach. The road from Ambleside, nicknamed “The Struggle”, is very steep. Weather at the top can close in quickly, with fog, ice and snow in winter.
What usually goes wrong here
Clutches burned on The Struggle, overheating in summer traffic, and drops on the steep hairpins.
If you’re stuck right now
The inn car park at the summit is the safest place to wait. Tell us which side of the pass you’re on: Windermere, Ambleside or Ullswater.
- Get off the road, and get the bike off it too if you can.
- Send your location: a WhatsApp live pin, what3words, or the last landmark you passed.
- Call 020 8058 0013, hear the price, and we’ll send a bike-ready truck.
Nearest areas we cover
FAQ
Rider questions
How long does it take to get a recovery truck to the Kirkstone Pass (A592)?
It depends on where the nearest available truck is and the traffic. Remote roads take longer than towns. We give you an honest estimate on the call.
What if I have no phone signal?
Walk to higher ground or the nearest village. A single bar is enough for a text or WhatsApp pin. Note the last landmark you passed.