Views for miles
The walk up Hoad Hill to Hoad Monument or Sir John Barrow Monument is short but steep. However, you will be rewarded with impressive 360-degree panoramic views. On a clear day, you will see down to Ulverston, the Furness Peninsula, Morecambe Bay and across to the Lake District Fells.
Sir John Barrow Monument History
Built in 1850 to commemorate Sir John Barrow, a local hero from modest beginnings. He became the long-serving Second Secretary of the Admiralty for the Royal Navy. Sir John Barrow devoted his life to exploration. As a result, travelling to places as far-flung as Alaska and Canada. Barrow Point in Alaska and Barrow Straits in Canada are named after Sir John Barrow. Barrow was knighted in 1835 by William IV and died a decade later in 1848.
Inspiration
The monument replicates the Eddystone Lighthouse in Cornwall, designed and built by John Smeaton in 1759. The 100ft tall Hoad Monument, Ulverston Lighthouse, has never had a functioning light but has become a symbol of the Northwest and can be seen for miles around. When the flag is flying in the summer, the lighthouse is open to the public. Climb the 112 spiral steps up through the hollow insides of the building to the lantern chamber at the top.
Parking
Street Parking is available around Ford Park, and if you have kids, you could combine the walk with a play on the adventure park at the bottom. On your way up, you will see the occasional sheep grazing and keeping the grass short. There are plenty of benches on the way to the top, so take your time, and enjoy the view.
