Whitbarrow Scar
A National Nature Reserve with ancient limestone cliffs, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
For stunning panoramic views
Whitbarrow Scar
Best Time
For stunning panoramic views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A National Nature Reserve with ancient limestone cliffs, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.
"A gem described by Wainwright as 'the most beautiful walk in this book.'"
Stout Boots Essential
The paths are hard and rocky, so wear sturdy footwear for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Limited Parking
Parking is scarce. Try near Witherslack Hall or Oversands School and follow public footpaths. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Limestone Pavement
Summit
Unique, stark, and surreal landscape with rare wildflowers, birds, and butterflies.
Woodland Trails
Base of the scar
Idyllic mixed woodland with ancient oaks, pines, hazel, and ferns. A haven for wildlife.
Panoramic Views
Summit
Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding fells and the distant coastline on a clear day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Best Views & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Stout Boots Essential
The paths are hard and rocky, so wear sturdy footwear for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Limited Parking
Parking is scarce. Try near Witherslack Hall or Oversands School and follow public footpaths. :car:
Explore the Woods
Don't just climb the scar; wander through the beautiful mixed woodland for a richer experience. :deciduous_tree:
Wainwright's Favorite
Described by Wainwright as 'the most beautiful walk in this book.'
Tips
from all over the internet
Stout Boots Essential
The paths are hard and rocky, so wear sturdy footwear for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Limited Parking
Parking is scarce. Try near Witherslack Hall or Oversands School and follow public footpaths. :car:
Explore the Woods
Don't just climb the scar; wander through the beautiful mixed woodland for a richer experience. :deciduous_tree:
Wainwright's Favorite
Described by Wainwright as 'the most beautiful walk in this book.'
Wildlife Haven
Look out for nesting birds, deer, wildflowers, and butterflies. :butterfly:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Whitbarrow Scar for its stunning natural beauty, unique limestone pavement, and diverse wildlife. The woodland trails are particularly enchanting. However, many note the challenging access with vague signage and limited parking, recommending sturdy footwear for the rocky paths.
"ENTRANCE: just before the entrance to the school go to the right side all the way next to the fence - next to some overgrown barn. You can park here for free. Space for 2 or 3 cars.
Nice little place when it comes to scenery in general but if you're unwilling to climb all the way to the top you may potentially miss out on some great views. There are however a couple of other paths if you do not want to climb and can instead walk around the nature in the woods."
Wisdom
"Nice mid to easy walk to to top. Great views from up there. Great views from below. Nesting birds are amazing. Would recommend a visit"
skycamvideo
"Poor access with no car park and only limited parking & signage. However! A truly beautiful mixed woodland with large oaks and pines towering over a delightful understory of hazel and fern. There is a pond full of diverse aquatic plants - a joy to see in summer when the dragonflies are out! A shining example of how the British uplands could look with LESS sheep & managed tidiness 🙏🏽"
Nvc95
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parking is limited and signage is vague. Try near Witherslack Hall or Oversands School. Turn right just before Oversands School onto a short lane; parking is on the right. Follow the public footpath from there.
From the parking area near Witherslack Hall, follow the public footpath through a kissing gate, down across a field, past a soccer field, and then steeply up through the woodlands.
One user mentioned taking a bus to Sampool Bridge from Haverthwaite Train Station, but noted it took a long time to reach the trail start.
There are no helpful signs, which some users believe keeps the area pristine. Follow public footpaths and look for yellow chevron markers.
Yes, Whitbarrow Scar is located in the Lake District National Park, offering stunning views of the fells and coastline.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Whitbarrow Scar is a National Nature Reserve and access is generally free. There are no ticket requirements.
As a natural reserve, Whitbarrow Scar is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for Whitbarrow Scar. It's a natural reserve open to the public.
Dogs are generally welcome in the Lake District National Park, but always check local guidelines and keep dogs under control, especially around wildlife.
Yes, Whitbarrow Scar is a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Specific Scientific Interest, managed by the Cumbria Wildlife Trust and Forestry Commission.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The walk to the top is described as mid to easy, though the final ascent can be steep. Stout boots are essential due to rocky paths.
Expect breathtaking panoramic views of the fells and coastline on clear days. The summit offers a stark and surreal limestone pavement landscape.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms or visitor centers directly at Whitbarrow Scar. Refreshments can be found at Yew Tree Barn nearby.
It's a haven for nesting birds, deer, rare wildflowers, butterflies, and aquatic plants in its pond.
Absolutely! The unique limestone pavement, ancient woodlands, and panoramic views make it a fantastic spot for landscape photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Yew Tree Barn is a recommended spot for refreshments after your walk.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can find spots to enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty. Remember to take all litter with you.
Information on specific food types is limited, but Yew Tree Barn likely offers typical cafe fare.
While not directly at the scar, the panoramic views from the summit itself can be enjoyed while you eat a packed lunch.
No, there are no vendors or shops on the trail itself. It's best to bring your own supplies or visit nearby establishments like Yew Tree Barn.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique limestone pavement, ancient woodlands with gnarled trees, and the expansive summit views are prime photography locations.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic shadows on the limestone pavement and enhance the landscape's textures. Clear days offer the best panoramic shots.
Yes, the reserve is home to various birds, butterflies, and deer, offering opportunities for wildlife photography, though patience is key.
A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive views and limestone pavement, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of the natural environment and any wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Wear sturdy shoes: Essential for navigating the rocky terrain.
* Pack a picnic: Enjoy lunch amidst the beautiful scenery.
* Bring binoculars: Great for spotting birds and other wildlife.
* Allow extra time: Explore the woodland at a relaxed pace.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Tips for hikers:
* Check the weather: Visibility is crucial for enjoying the summit views.
* Plan your route: While signage is minimal, maps can help.
* Respect the environment: Stick to paths and leave no trace.
* Consider visiting Yew Tree Barn: A great spot for post-hike refreshments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Geology of Whitbarrow Scar
This unique combination of exposed limestone and dense woodland supports a diverse ecosystem. The fissures in the pavement trap moisture and soil, creating microhabitats for a variety of rare wildflowers, including species typically found in more southern climes. The area is also a haven for nesting birds, and visitors might spot deer and various butterflies flitting through the trees and across the open scar.
The geological significance and ecological richness of Whitbarrow Scar have led to its designation as a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Specific Scientific Interest. This protection ensures that its unique character is preserved for future generations to appreciate. The landscape is so distinctive that it was even lauded by Alfred Wainwright, who described it as "'the most beautiful walk in this book, beautiful it is every step of the way.'"
Navigating Whitbarrow Scar: Parking and Trails
From the parking spot, you'll need to follow public footpaths. A key instruction is to look for a small yellow chevron marker that indicates the public footpath. You'll cross a field, walk past a small soccer field, and then the path leads steeply upwards through the woodlands to the top of the reserve. Many visitors note the lack of clear signage, which, while preserving the area's wildness, requires a bit of careful navigation.
Once on the trails, stout boots are a must. The paths are described as hard and rocky, especially as you ascend the scar. While the climb to the top is considered mid-to-easy, the terrain demands appropriate footwear. For those who prefer not to climb all the way, there are alternative paths that allow you to walk around the nature reserve and through the woods.



Social
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