Kirkstone's not that bad really, it just drags on a bit. Cracking descent on the other side! Was touching 50 mph on it racing some guy on a Kawasaki (he wasn't aware that I was racing him, btw) when I did the Roses Round Sportive t'other year. It's a bit rough in a couple of places and the dry stone walls come at you a bit quick so be a bit careful.
Have a good one.