Ffordd Pen Llech – The Steepest Street in the World

Guinness World Records (GWR) has confirmed that with a 37.45% gradient over its steepest 10 metre distance Ffordd Pen Llech in Harlech is now recognised as the steepest street in the world.

Quite incredible really, I still can’t believe it! 

With one of the banners that will now be draped at the top of Ffordd Pen Llech; (L-R) Gerry Brookes (Seasons and Reasons [S&R]), Glyn Roberts (Castle Cottage Restaurant), Janice Brookes (S&R), Julie Brookes (S&R), Myrddyn Phillips (Surveyor), Sarah Badham (Co-Administrator for GWR bid), Myfanwy Jones (Ffordd Pen Llech resident) and Gwyn Headley (Co-Administrator for GWR bid)

Many congratulations to all involved, and especially to Gwyn Headley and Sarah Badham; Co-Administrator’s for the GWR bid.  It was Gwyn who first realised that Ffordd Pen Llech stood a chance to be recognised by GWR as the steepest street in the world and he has spent a year campaigning and putting a package together to submit to GWR, whilst Sarah runs the Grwp Cymuned Harlech web page and the Ffordd Pen Llech Facebook page.  Both have been irrepressible with their enthusiasm and patience as the bid has been similar to a roller coaster ride with some downs but many more ups.

I’m extremely proud to have been a part of this project and my thanks to Gwyn for inviting me to originally survey Ffordd Pen Llech. 

Gwyn and Sarah with the Guinness World Records certificate recognising Ffordd Pen Llech as the steepest street in the world

The Guinness World Records certificate

Guinness World Records confirmed that Ffordd Pen Llech is steeper than the previous owner of this unusual but important accolade a few days ago and embargoed the news until earlier this morning.  The record was held by Baldmin Street in Dunedin in New Zealand which has a 35% gradient over its steepest section.  Baldwin Street remains an exceptional street with its steepness reminiscent of a ski jump.  But steepness is steepness and Ffordd Pen Llech betters it!

Congratulations Harlech and Wales, who are now the proud custodians of the steepest street in the world; Ffordd Pen Llech.

The Guinness World Records announcement on their website

Myrddyn Phillips (July 2019)