Britain\\\'s hardest cycle routes

Hardknott Pass in Eskdale, CumbriaThis is one of the most challenging cycle routes in the whole of Great Britain, and although it runs for less than two miles the height gained is nearly 300 meters. Cyclists who follow the steep climb from the east start at Jubilee Bridge will make their way through woodland into two sets of punishing switchbacks. After the route briefly levels out cyclists must push themselves to the limit to conquer a second set of switchbacks with 30% slopes. Pause for a moment to take in the stunning scenery at the top before tackling the terrifying decent. This is a route that adrenaline junkies are sure to love. 
Fakenham to Greenway Lane in NorfolkThis cycle route is ideal for a Sunday morning and covers a distance of 46 miles. Cyclists start in Fakenham and head down Thorplands road through the enchanting Great Snoring. Follow the road through Hindringham across the A148, which is surrounded by rolling hills. The route then takes cyclists through the charming towns of Barney, Fulmodestone, Ryburgh, West Raynham and Rudham. Cyclists will want to pause to soak up the scenery before crossing the A148 once more, this time heading towards Bircham. The route finally takes cyclists through the picturesque north and south creak and back to Fakenham.
Wrynose Pass in Little Langdale, Cumbria. This impressive cycle route is certainly not for the faint of heart. The narrow cycle path twists and turns through rocky rolling hills and features plenty of challenging climbs. The most stimulating climb starts at Fell Foot Farm with a 20% right hand corner. The road here hugs the side of the mountain before plunging into a series of switchbacks. Although the climb time is just 15 minutes, the rough state of the road and tough climb makes it feel much longer. 
Rosedale Chimney at Rosedale Abbey, North York MoorsThe stunning rugged red, green and golden landscape of the North York Moors makes this a stunning place to cycle and this route is one of the most punishing in the area. Rosedale Chimney has a reputation for being one of the most challenging climbs in the area as it features a one-in-three gradient hill. If this wasn’t enough, the rough road service adds to the difficulty of the climb, while the double hairpin is certainly not for the faint of heart. Sheep wait at either side of the road to cheer on hearty cyclists as they push through the one-in-three climb and on into the one-in-six.
Asterton Bank in ShropshireShropshire is also renowned for its infamous cycle paths, and the route that takes cyclists along the eastern edge of the Long Mynd is both the most challenging and picturesque route in this part of the world. The road is just wide enough for a single car and winds dramatically through the landscape for a climb of 163 meters. The 25% corner is particularly tricky, especially as it leads to a sheer bank. 
Fleet Moss in Hawes, Yorkshire DalesThis cycle route runs for more than three miles and is the highest road in the whole of Yorkshire, which means that cyclists who make the grade are treated to impressive views. The most challenging route leads south from Hawes and takes cyclists along the gently flowing river in Gayle to a sharp 17% corner. Cyclists are given the chance to get their breath back for a while as the road levels off briefly while it runs past pretty farm buildings. After a brief respite it is time to dig deep again and push up a series of steep hills past wandering sheep. After another flat stretch the road follows a 20% gradient and then a zig-zag course at the highest section of the region. 
Bwlch-y-Groes in Dinas Mawddwy, Gwynedd The hills in this region are so dramatic that the tarmacked pass that runs through it has been dubbed Hellfire Pass by visiting cyclists. People who choose to take this stunning cycle route will find themselves cycling though the Aran Mountains, which can be found on the edge of Snowdonia. This is by far one of the most intensely beautiful cycle routes in the whole of Great Britain, while also being extremely challenging. The 3.3 mile route climbs for some 385 meters and takes around 25 minutes to complete. Cyclists will pass trees and farm buildings before coming to a 25% right turn. From here, the road becomes increasingly steep until it reaches the stunning summit.