Snake Pass in England 2024

One of the most beautiful roads in England

Best time: April–October

Snake Pass or A57 is a hilly road in the Derbyshire section of the Peak District, which is connecting Manchester and Sheffield. The section of road, crossing the Pennines between the Royal Oak Inn at Glossop and the Ladybower Reservoir at Ashopton, in 2009, it was listed as one of the best driving roads by Auto Trader magazine. Its highest point reaches 512 m (1679 ft) above sea level. The road was named after the Snake Inn on its higher section, which, in its turn, was named after the Cavendish arms of William Cavendish, 6th Duke of Devonshire.

Snake Pass was built in 1821 and designed by Thomas Telford. It is no longer the main signposted route Manchester and Sheffield, but it is very popular among cyclists, motorcyclists and car drivers for its scenic beauty. It has served as a track for a semi-professional cycling race, like the Tour of Britain. The road gets regularly closed in winter due to snow or heavy rain. It is best to be used from April to October.

Snake Pass starts east of Glossop and climbs to the Pennines between the Kinder Scout and Bleaklow to its highest point where it crosses the Pennine Way. After this, it passes the famous Snake Inn and goes down through the woods to the Ladybower Reservoir at Ashopton.

Practical info

What is the ideal season for a visit to Snake Pass in England?

A visit to Snake Pass in England is best planned between April and October, as the road is inaccessible during the winter season owing to heavy rain and snow. Visitors can partake in leisurely activities such as cycling, motorcycling, and driving, all the while experiencing the beauty of Snake Pass in full bloom.

What is the highest altitude that Snake Pass in England reaches?

The height of Snake Pass in England is 512m (1,679 ft) from sea level, making it the highest point. This Pennine Way passage offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the Kinder Scout and Bleaklow hills. It is the site of the Tour of Britain, a semi-professional cycling race that takes visitors through the stunning terrain of this remarkable road.

What are the primary activities offered to visitors at Snake Pass in England?

Snaking through the Ladybower Reservoir woods, Snake Pass in England attracts visitors interested in cycling, motorcycling, or driving amidst picturesque landscapes. Alternatively, visitors can take time to traverse the Pennine Way on a hike and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Kinder Scout and Bleaklow hills.

In which part of England are the Snake Inn and Ladybower Reservoir, and what distinguishes them?

The famous Snake Inn and Ladybower Reservoir find residence in Ashopton, towards the termination of the road, as the visitor passes the Derbyshire-adjacent area of the Peak District, lying between Sheffield and Manchester. These picturesque locations offer visitors a chance to rest amidst beautiful landscapes and make splendid stopovers during a drive along the Snake Pass road.

Who was the designer and constructor of Snake Pass in England, and when was the structure built?

Snake Pass in England was designed by Thomas Telford and completed in 1821 as a road project to connect the key cities of Sheffield and Manchester. It has since been replaced by other main signposted routes. A vestige of the past, the road's name is derived from the Cavendish arms of William Cavendish, 6th Duke of Devonshire.