Street in Harlech, is the Steepest Street in the World

Ffordd Pen Llech, a street in north Wales has been declared the steepest in the world.

Residents in Harlech, Gwynedd, are celebrating after Guinness World Records verified the hill a gradient of 37.45%.

The title had been held by Baldwin Street in Dunedin, New Zealand, with a gradient of 35% at its steepest.

Campaigner Gwyn Headley said: “I feel utter relief – and jubilation. I feel sorry for the New Zealanders – but steeper is steeper.”

Mr Headley and Sarah Badhan know just what an uphill struggle life can be for those living on Ffordd Pen Llech. While most live at the bottom of the hill, the chemist and post office are at the top.

Mr Headley’s research found the street was the steepest in Great Britain, though a different methodology was used to calculate Baldwin Street in New Zealand.

So they engaged surveyors and measurements taken in January showed Ffordd Pen Llech had a one in 2.67 gradient at its steepest part, compared with the current record holder’s one in 2.86.

Ms Badhan said: “We’re absolutely elated and exhausted of course after the hard work over the last year… We can’t quite believe it.

As well as 300-year-old houses at the bottom of Ffordd Pen Llech Street, the road is regularly used by people visiting the town’s ancient castle which sits at the top. Plus, those who make it to the top will have the chance to stop for a refreshing beverage at a small coffee shop.