Baldwin Street is an ordinary suburban street with an extraordinary slope. It is only about 350 metres long, but the steepest section reaches a gradient of around one in 2.86, which means that for every 2.86 metres you travel horizontally, you climb one metre. It has been recognised by the Guinness World Records as the steepest street in the world, and although a Welsh street briefly took the title, Baldwin Street regained it. The street is lined with houses whose residents live with the constant stream of visitors, and the concrete surface was laid in sections because asphalt would slip in the heat. Visitors walk up for the experience, some ride bikes or run, and a plaque at the top records the street's record. Baldwin Street has hosted events over the years, including a famous chocolate-themed race, and has become an emblem of Dunedin's sense of fun. The climb is short but surprisingly demanding, and the view from the top over the city and harbour is a fine reward. There is no charge to visit, but the street is a living residential area, so quiet and respect are essential.
How to visit
Baldwin Street is in North East Valley, about three kilometres from the city centre, and you can reach it by car, taxi or bus. Parking at the base is limited, and the street is narrow, so be careful and park legally. Walking up and down takes around 20 minutes, with time for photos. Wear shoes with good grip, and avoid wet weather when the surface can be slippery.
What to expect
You will find that the slope is hard on the calves, and handrails are not provided, so take it steadily. At the top, a bench and a plaque mark the achievement, and you can look back down the street for the classic photograph. Some visitors walk up and back, while others walk up and take a different route down. There are no shops or toilets on the street itself, though a local cafe is nearby. Expect a few other tourists, especially at weekends and in summer.
Making the most of it
Photograph the street from the bottom to capture the angle, then take a second picture from the top for the view. Be mindful of residents, traffic and private property. Combine the visit with a trip to the nearby Botanic Garden, which is a short drive away, or with the Dunedin Railway Station on the way back. If you are not keen on the climb, a photograph from the base still shows the drama. Avoid the street at night or in icy weather.
Good to know
The street is named after William Baldwin, a politician of the nineteenth century, and its steepness was not intended as a tourist attraction but a result of surveyors laying out a grid across the hills without regard to the slopes. Today it is a source of local pride and a staple of postcards and souvenirs.
Dunedin has several steep streets, and locals will happily point out others, though Baldwin Street holds the title. If you are interested in sport, a charity run up the street is held on some occasions, and the climb is a rite of passage for many students.
What to expect
The experience
A short, steep walk up a residential street recognised as the steepest in the world.
Best time
Dry days, when the surface grips well and the view from the top is clear.
How long
30-45 minutes
Tips
Wear grippy shoes, be quiet and respectful of residents and park legally.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Quirky-sight collectors and families who like a challenge.
- Families
- A fun climb for older children, with a reward at the top.
- Couples
- A light-hearted stop with a good photo and a view.
- Pair with
- The Botanic Garden, which is a short drive away.
- Time needed
- 30-45 minutes
Good questions
How steep is Baldwin Street?+
The steepest section has a gradient of about one in 2.86, making it the steepest street in the world.
How long is Baldwin Street?+
It is about 350 metres long.
Is it free to visit?+
Yes, it is a public residential street with no entry charge.
How do I get there?+
It is in North East Valley, about three kilometres from the city centre, reached by car, taxi or bus.
Is it safe to climb?+
Take care, avoid wet or icy conditions and wear shoes with good grip.