In reply to MusicalMountaineer:
Classic Rock routes I've been up:
Bowfell Buttress: Seconding, on one of my first outdoor climbs, in two parties of two. It took us about 7 hours... (confirming any lurking 'prejudices'). But, there was no one else around and it was a fantastic summer's day. From the top, views to the Isle of Man, Scotland and the NW coast.
Little Chamonix: Alt-lead with a somewhat hungover friend, who consequently gave me the first and third pitch, though he perked up in time for the last. The first pitch is non-descript; the second non-existent. But, the third is fantastically weird whilst the last is exposed and moves across really dramatic ground. I guess that's where it gets its classic points.
Troutdale Pinnacle and Bracket and Slab: both quite exciting for the grade, no? Leading the Bracket felt bold, given that the twists and turns don't allow you to be over-generous with gear. Likewise, the moves up onto the terrace traverse of B&S, and up off it again on the other side. Beyond being exciting, both TP and B&S also very characterful; you know you're on something classic when its rock features have names, as well as when they meander under and through harder rock.
Gillercombe Buttress: it's long. Can anything else be said to distinguish it? Perhaps awkwardness. It's long and awkward. Is length a criterion for classic-ness? Hopefully not.
There are other routes I'd prefer over Gillercombe, such as Kennel Wall (Gouther) or Thomas (Wallowbarrow). And there are some where THE route is not really defined, e.g. why do Ash Tree Slabs into C Route rather than into A, B or D?
But, overall, I think Classic Rock is fantastic - massive pictures, bizarre write ups by Lord Wotsit and Dave from the pub (who did it in wellies one wet winter in '63, armed only with a woggle and a public school education...), as well as memorable routes that 'oft in lonely rooms and mid the din', 'in hours of weariness', have you recalling their intricacies and peculiarities.