The steep but short walk up Hoad Hill to Hoad Monument or Sir John Barrow Monument will provide impressive 360-degree panoramic views down to Ulverston, Furness Peninsula, Morecambe Bay and across to the Lake District Fells.
Built in 1850 to commemorate Sir John Barrow, a local hero from humble beginnings who became the long-serving Second Secretary of the Admiralty for the Royal Navy. He devoted his life to exploration, travelling to places as far-flung as Alaska and Canada, where Barrow Point and Barrow Straits are named after him. Barrow was knighted in 1835 by William IV and died a decade later in 1848.
The monument is a replica of the earlier Eddystone Lighthouse in Cornwall, designed and built by John Smeaton in 1759. The 100ft tall Hoad Monument has never had a functioning light but has become a symbol of the Northwest and can be seen for miles around. Throughout the summer months, when the flag is flying, 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.
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.
