Baldwin Street Reclaims Title as World’s Steepest Street in Dunedin, New Zealand

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Baldwin Street in Dunedin, New Zealand, is once again the steepest street in the world after having previously lost the title to Ffordd Pen Llech in Harlech, Wales. Guinness World Records has confirmed that, after reviewing the steepness of the two streets, Baldwin Street has a steeper gradient at 34.8% compared to Harlech’s Ffordd Pen Llech at 28.6%.

The Challenge Between Two Steep Streets

Baldwin Street previously held the title of the world’s steepest street until it was overtaken by Ffordd Pen Llech in 2021. The street in Harlech had been declared steeper, with a sharp incline measuring 40%. However, after a re-evaluation of the gradients by specialists, it was revealed that Baldwin Street had the edge in terms of steepness.

This decision was made after an in-depth technical review of both streets’ inclines, clarifying that Baldwin Street’s gradient, although smaller in its initial recorded angle, is still the most extreme globally. Despite this setback, the Welsh street still remains one of the steepest in the world, ranking just behind Baldwin Street.

What Makes Baldwin Street So Steep?

Located in Dunedin, Baldwin Street is renowned for its sharp incline, which challenges both residents and visitors. The street was built in the 1860s, with urban planners in London imposing a grid system that didn’t account for the steep terrain. As a result, Baldwin Street became a uniquely steep street with a challenging incline of 34.8%.

The steepness of the street makes it a popular spot for events, including an annual fun run and even a chocolate-rolling contest. These events attract tourists from around the world who are eager to experience the unique challenge of walking or running up the street.

Ffordd Pen Llech: Still Remarkably Steep

Though Ffordd Pen Llech in Harlech, Wales, lost its claim to the title of the steepest street, it remains a formidable climb. This street has an incline of 28.6%, and despite the lower gradient, it’s still known for its challenging ascent. At the base of Ffordd Pen Llech, there’s a warning sign advising drivers that the street is unsuitable for motor vehicles due to its sharp 40% gradient.

In addition to its steepness, the road is known for being a popular spot for cyclists. Many cyclists come to test their endurance against the hill, taking on the difficult climb to the top. The road is also a part of the Harlech Hell Climb event, a race that attracts extreme cycling enthusiasts.

Ffordd Pen Llech is also a one-way street for vehicles, with restrictions in place during certain times of the year. However, cyclists can take an alternate route via Twtil Road, which has a slightly less steep incline of 25%.

Travel Guide to Baldwin Street and Ffordd Pen Llech

For those planning a visit to either Baldwin Street in Dunedin or Ffordd Pen Llech in Harlech, here’s a quick guide:

• Baldwin Street (Dunedin, New Zealand):
  • Getting There: Baldwin Street is located in Dunedin, a city on the South Island of New Zealand. Visitors can easily reach Dunedin via domestic flights from major cities in New Zealand. Once in Dunedin, Baldwin Street is easily accessible by foot, car, or bike.
  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Baldwin Street is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is pleasant, and events like the Baldwin Street Gutbuster fun run take place.
  • Things to Do: Visitors can participate in the fun run, watch the chocolate rolling contest, or simply challenge themselves to walk or run up the steep incline.
• Ffordd Pen Llech (Harlech, Wales):
  • Getting There: Harlech is located in North Wales. Visitors can take a train to Harlech from major Welsh cities like Cardiff and Bangor. Once in Harlech, Ffordd Pen Llech is within walking distance from the town center.
  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Harlech is from spring to autumn, where the weather is milder, and outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking are more enjoyable.
  • Things to Do: Besides taking on the steep climb, visitors can explore the nearby Harlech Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Why These Streets Are So Steep

The extreme steepness of both Baldwin Street and Ffordd Pen Llech is a result of poor urban planning. In Baldwin Street’s case, the street was constructed during the colonial era when the city’s planners in London didn’t take the local terrain into account. As a result, streets like Baldwin Street were built along the steep slopes without adjusting for the gradient, making them uniquely challenging.

Ffordd Pen Llech, located in the historical town of Harlech, was similarly affected by steep terrain. While it doesn’t match Baldwin Street in terms of gradient, it remains a striking example of how natural landscapes influence the design of urban infrastructure.

Conclusion

Happily, Baldwin Street has once more earned the title of the world’s steepest street. However, both Baldwin Street and Ffordd Pen Llech are phenomenal examples of the interaction between humans and the more difficult sides of nature. Whether you are an adventurous traveler or a cyclist looking for a challenge, these two streets are extremely important to visit. Ffordd Pen Llech has an incredible history and extaordinarily steep climb, while Baldwin Street has stunning views and entertaining events.