The best motorcycle roads in the UK and Ireland
The short answer
The best motorcycle roads in the UK are Bealach na Bà to Applecross (626 m, gradients up to 20%), the North Coast 500 in Scotland (about 516 miles), Hardknott and Wrynose in the Lake District, the Snake Pass in the Peak District, and the Isle of Man TT Mountain Course. In Ireland, ride the Wild Atlantic Way and the Conor Pass. May to September is best.
The passes aren't high, but they're steep, narrow and wild. And the weather adds its own challenge.
At a glance
| Road | Where | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Bealach na Bà | Applecross, Scotland | Alpine-style hairpins, up to 20% |
| North Coast 500 | Northern Highlands | About 516 miles, sea and mountains |
| Hardknott and Wrynose | Lake District | Gradients up to 33% |
| Snake Pass (A57) | Peak District | Moorland bends near Manchester |
| Isle of Man Mountain Course | Isle of Man | 37.73 miles of TT history |
| Wild Atlantic Way | West coast of Ireland | About 2,500 km of coast |
Bealach na Bà
The "Pass of the Cattle" climbs from Tornapress to 626 m with gradients up to 20% and hairpins that feel Alpine. At the top, the view over to Skye. It's single track with passing places, so ride patiently.
North Coast 500
A loop of about 516 miles from Inverness around the northern Highlands, including Bealach na Bà. Allow five to seven days. Much of it is single track: use passing places, wave thanks, and expect sheep.
Hardknott and Wrynose
Two of the steepest roads in England, with gradients up to 33% on Hardknott. Short, tight and technical. Not a road for heavy touring bikes with passengers or for wet days.
Snake Pass
The A57 between Manchester and Sheffield crosses the moors of the Peak District with flowing bends. Popular, well known to police, and sometimes closed by landslips. Check before you go.
Isle of Man
Outside the TT and Manx Grand Prix, the Mountain Course is a public road. Parts of the mountain section have no national speed limit. Ride it with respect: it's a public road with traffic in both directions.
Ireland: the Wild Atlantic Way
About 2,500 km along Ireland's west coast from Donegal to Cork. Highlights include the Conor Pass on the Dingle peninsula, Ireland's highest mountain pass road, and the Ring of Kerry, best ridden early before the coaches.
Season
May to September gives long days and the best chance of dry roads. Rain is possible in any month, so pack for it.
Questions riders ask
What is the steepest road in England?
Hardknott Pass in the Lake District, with gradients up to 33%, shares the title with Rosedale Chimney Bank in Yorkshire.
How long is the North Coast 500 on a motorcycle?
About 516 miles. Most riders take five to seven days.
Can you ride the Isle of Man TT course?
Yes. Outside race periods it's a public road. Parts of the mountain section have no national speed limit.