Winnats Pass
About
Winnats Pass is a scenic limestone gorge near Castleton. Enclosed by steep, craggy cliffs, it offers a dramatic drive or hike through a narrow valley. Its name means “windy gates,” reflecting its often breezy conditions.
Helpful Tips
What to Photograph
This is mostly photographed at Sunrise. There are several rocks sticking up from the top giving a good focal point whilst shooting into the valley. Spring and Autumn are good times to visit this location as you can get mist creeping up the road towards Mam Tor.
Best time to visit
To be fair this location is good all year round. Whether the sun is rising straight above the valley or not, you can get nice light. Spring / Autumn is my favourite time to visit this location as you can get mist creeping up the valley. Capturing a fire sky at this location must be on the bucket list!
Where to Park
The best location to park for Winners are the lay by's at the top of the pass. Just make sure they are real lay bye as sometimes people park 'illegally' and have been given fines by parking attendants. You then walk to the access gate at the top of pass, walk through 2 farmers fields and then you get to another gate. You will then be on top, walk until you get the viewpoint of looking into the valley.