SD5958 : Rocks by Ward's Stone eastern Trig Pillar

Ward's Stone

562m Elevation
401m Prominence
England Country
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SD5958 : Rocks by Ward's Stone eastern Trig Pillar

Mr T Photo source

Overview

Ward's Stone: A Delightful Challenge for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Overview

Ward's Stone stands proud at 563 meters, making it one of the prominent landmarks of the Forest of Bowland in North West England. Classified as a Marilyn, it is a must-visit for those seeking stunning views and a good workout.

Geology

The summit is a mix of gritstone and sandstone, carved beautifully by glacial movements eons ago. The slopes give way to an array of fascinating rock formations, crags and hollows that are sure to delight geology enthusiasts!

Routes

Ward's Stone via Wolfhole Crag
  • Distance: 7.5 km
  • Time: Around 3 hours
  • Difficulty: Moderate

This route begins from the car park on the B6478 and leads you through some of the most picturesque landscapes the region offers. Don’t forget your camera; the views are enough to make anyone break into song (though we recommend keeping your day job!).

Summit Features

Arriving at the summit, you’ll find a trig point standing resolute against the winds—evidence of countless walks taken to reach this heavenly height. The surrounding heather adds a pop of colour, particularly in late summer.

Terrain Type

Expect a varied terrain of rocky paths, grassy slopes, and a few unavoidable squelchy bits! Make sure to wear sturdy footwear to avoid any misadventures.

Views

From the top, you’re rewarded with sights that’ll make your heart skip: shimmering rivers, rolling hills, and—if you squint hard enough—the distant heights of the Yorkshire Dales. Late spring and early autumn are particularly enchanting.

Hazards

Keep an eye out for those deliciously boggy patches that can soak your boots without a moment's notice, and the winds can whip up unexpectedly at the summit. Always good to check the weather before heading out!

Nearby Summits

  • Wolfhole Crag: 560 m
  • Cragg Hill: 530 m

Access

Nearest Parking

Parking can be found at a convenient lay-by on the B6478. Be sure to park responsibly!

Public Transport

Public transport to Dunsop Bridge is limited but possible from Clitheroe. A great excuse for a drive through scenic countryside!

Nearest Town

Dunsop Bridge exhibits the charm of a quaint English village, where you can grab a cup of tea after your hike.

Facilities

Dunsop Bridge offers a small café and public toilets. Functionality at its finest!

History

Name Meaning

The etymology of Ward's Stone hints at its historical roots, possibly connected to guardianship in the watchful eyes of the landscape.

Significance

While once a hotspot for sheep grazing, Ward's Stone now holds its ground as a bastion of natural beauty, attracting walkers and nature lovers from all corners.

In conclusion, Ward's Stone is more than just a hill; it is a journey into the heart of the magnificent Forest of Bowland. Whether you hike it for exercise, views, or sheer joy of the outdoors, it's sure to take your breath away—even if you’ve just climbed it!

Happy hiking folks! Don’t forget to enjoy the little things!

Explore routes near Ward's Stone

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Stocks Reservoir: full circuit from School Lane

11.1 km ~4h Moderate

View route

Bolton-le-Sands to Hest Bank: Lancaster Canal Towpath Return

8.5 km ~2h 15m Easy

View route

Ingleton Waterfalls Walk

6.8 km ~2h 30m Moderate

View route

Ingleborough from Clapham

~5h Hard

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Ward's Stone via Wolfhole Crag

A popular route that starts from the car park at the base and takes you along a well-trodden trail that features panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

7.5 km ~3 hours Moderate
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Dodd Dewey

Elevation

562m

1,845 ft

Prominence

401m

Coordinates

54.0230, -2.6243

SD591587

OS Map

102

Explorer: OL41W

At the Summit

The summit boasts a prominent trig point and a number of rocky outcrops where hikers can sit and enjoy the view. The landscape is often dotted with heather and moss, giving it a wild, beautiful character.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with patches of grass interspersed with boggy areas in some parts.

Ward's Stone is primarily composed of gritstone and sandstone, which forms the steep, rugged landscape typical of the area. The geological features have been shaped by glacial activity, leaving behind stunning cliffs and valleys.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can gaze upon the ribbed contours of the Bowland Hills, the distant peaks of the Yorkshire Dales, and across to the shimmering waters of the Ribble Valley.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name Ward's Stone potentially derives from 'Ward', an old term referring to a guard or watchman, with 'Stone' indicating the rocky prominence of the peak.

Historical Significance

Historically, the area has been a site for sheep grazing and remains a crucial natural habitat for local wildlife.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a lay-by car park on the B6478 road near the village of Dunsop Bridge. Be cautious of parking restrictions in the area, particularly during peak times.

Public Transport

The nearest public transport options are available in the nearby villages like Dunsop Bridge, albeit limited. The nearest bus service runs from Clitheroe.

Nearby Facilities

Limited facilities are available in Dunsop Bridge, including a small café and public toilets. It's advisable to bring sufficient supplies as options directly at the base are few.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be wary of potentially boggy sections, especially after rain. Strong winds can also present a challenge at the summit.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Ward's Stone?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Ward's Stone through the maps

Are there other walkers around Ward's Stone?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Ward's Stone search or of course create your own walk for Ward's Stone

Can I organise a walk to Ward's Stone?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Ward's Stone.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Ward's Stone?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Ward's Stone here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

Ward's Stone location map

Grid reference: SD591587

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

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