The A686 - Known as Hartside Pass, is one of the UK's Best Motorcycle Roads, if you visiting the North Of England, or you are just having a ride-out, this is a ride-out route you really have to do!

Located between Penrith and Alston (Map) at the summit of Hartside Pass, at a height of 1904 ft is the hartside Top Cafe, From the viewpoint at the Hartside Top Cafe, you can see Helvellyn, Great Gable, Skiddaw, and in Southern Scotland - Criffel - The views really are amazing.

The Pass itself, up to the summit, is a rollercoaster ride, of twists and turns, with hairpins, and sweepers, it's very difficult to explain just how good this road is, let's put it this way, it is breathtaking, and once the climb up to the summit is made, you pull into the Hartside Top cafe, where a multitude of food and drink is available, be warned though, it isn't the cheapest place on earth, but it is good quality.