Sir John Barrow Monument

The Sir John Barrow Monument stands on Hoad Hill above Ulverston, with footpaths leading up from town and Ford Park. The climb takes about 20 minutes on one route, and the hilltop opens out to views across Morecambe Bay, the Furness Peninsula and the southern Lake District. The lighthouse-like monument honours explorer Sir John Barrow. When it is open, you can go inside to see names on the walls and climb the narrow spiral stairs for a higher view.

Walking up Hoad Hill

The monument can be reached only on foot. Several paths climb Hoad Hill, with routes of differing difficulty. The Ford Park route is a scenic option, and one reported route takes about 20 minutes to reach the top. Some paths are steep, so choose your way down with care: a longer route to the left as you leave the monument is less steep than a direct descent described as particularly steep.

The walk passes through fields where sheep may be grazing. Wear shoes suited to uneven or steep paths, and take care where animals are present. The hill is also a place for a picnic, with open views over Ulverston and the surrounding landscape.

At the monument

The lighthouse-like structure honours Sir John Barrow, the explorer associated with Ulverston. From the hilltop, views extend across Morecambe Bay, the Furness Peninsula and the southern Lake District. It can be windy at the summit.

When the monument is open, visitors can go inside and climb the narrow spiral stairs. Names are written on the walls, and the upper level gives another viewpoint. The stairs are steep and narrow, so the interior climb is not a good fit for everyone. A flag raised at the monument indicates that it is open; tea or coffee may be available to buy at those times.