Steeps › Rosedale Chimney Bank, North Yorkshire
Rosedale Chimney Bank, North Yorkshire
Rosedale Chimney Bank carries a minor road between Rosedale Abbey and Hutton-le-Hole. It reaches a gradient of 1 in 3, and cyclists call it the Chain Breaker.
The facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | North York Moors National Park, North Yorkshire |
| Length | 0.81 miles (1.3 km) |
| Climb | 568 ft (173 m) |
| Average gradient | 13% |
| Maximum gradient | 1 in 3 (about 33%) |
| Elevation at top | 925 ft (282 m) |
Where the name comes from
The name comes from a 100 foot (30 m) chimney built to serve an ironstone mine in the area. The mine closed in 1929, and the chimney was demolished on 28 July 1972. The hill is therefore a reminder of the ironstone industry that once ran through Rosedale.
The Chain Breaker
Cyclists call it "The Chain Breaker". It hosted the National Hill Climb Championship in 1987. At the steepest point the road demands a very low gear, and riders who run out of gears have to walk.
Driving
Countryfile mentions a "Dangerous hill" warning and advises you to select a low gear as soon as you see it. Wikipedia describes the road as one of the two steepest in England, the other being Hardknott Pass. In winter, ice and snow make the hill hazardous, and you should check local advice before you set off.
Why average gradient matters
An average of 13% over 1.3 km sounds modest. But an average hides the steep pitches: the climb includes sections at 1 in 3. This is why we always give both numbers; see how gradients are measured.
Nearby
You can compare this hill with other English roads on our England page.
Riding it
The road is exposed in bad weather, and a wet or icy surface can stop a car from climbing. Because the hill is only 1.3 km long, some riders treat it as a repeatable effort. Others prefer to walk it. Either is sensible: a broken chain or a locked rear wheel on 33% is a real risk.
Why the 1987 championship matters
The National Hill Climb Championship is the traditional end-of-season event for British road cyclists, held on a steep hill each year. Rosedale Chimney Bank hosted it in 1987, which helped fix its reputation as one of the toughest climbs in the country.
Frequently asked questions
How steep is Rosedale Chimney Bank?
The average is 13% and the maximum is 1 in 3 (about 33%).
Why is it called the Chain Breaker?
It is the nickname given by cyclists to the hill; the steep sections are tough on bikes.
Where does the name Chimney come from?
From a 100 foot chimney built for an ironstone mine, demolished in 1972.