Hi 
I’m going to the Lake District in a few weeks and really want to drive the hardknott pass and the kirkstone pass 
Those who have done it , what’s a good starting point and finish point??
Best route ??
Many thanks 
Locals and others may know better routes but I started here https://maps.app.goo.gl/SffjodjkbBLGosws9 followed down and joined the Wrynose pass which then lead to the beginning of the Hardknott.
I went in Jan and it was pretty deserted but despite there being no snow and the roads clear, there were some very icy patches as you expect and it was a bit slippy in some places and had to slow to almost a crawl speed. Watch out for the magnetic stone walls, i just avoided a couple by inches 
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In my opinion start Keswick and go over whinlatter pass, head towards cleater moor, egremont , gosforth , santon bridge, eskdale and then straight upwards over hardknott and wrynose and then back to Keswick via Ambleside on the much smoother, nicer A591.
I’ve cycled and driven it a couple of times, no desire to repeat either, too bumpy and narrow over the passes, very limited passing places. Enjoy
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Best cafe for miles around; great food and position by river west of Ambleside
ideal car parking for start & stop - enjoy!
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Yes a very popular place, specially in summer… but don’t expect a bacon or a sausage bun!
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Get on the Honister Pass too Geoff, start from and finish more or less from Keswick doing a loop on the B5289. Great scenery, MX-5 a must 
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My icon photo was taken on the Honister pass near one of the bridges.
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