The 16 Most Amazing Peaks around Over Wyresdale

For exceptional panoramic views, Nicky Nook Summit provides vistas of the Lancashire coastal plain, Morecambe Bay, and even the Lakeland fells on a clear day. Clougha Pike is renowned for its tremendous panorama of the Lakeland and Yorkshire peaks, Morecambe Bay, and the Lune Valley. Ward's Stone, the highest point in the Forest of Bowland, also offers extensive views spanning the Three Peaks country and the Lakeland fells.

Yes, Nicky Nook Summit is particularly popular for families due to its accessibility and relatively easy walks. Parlick Fell summit is also considered a great hill for kids who enjoy a mountain, offering a good high point for exploring. The path to Paddy's Pole on Fair Snape Fell is also noted as straightforward and manageable for children in dry weather.

The terrain varies significantly across the peaks. Nicky Nook features roads, tracks, and fields, which can be muddy. Ward's Stone has a flat, extensive summit plateau, but approaches can be rough with peat hags and boggy conditions after rain. Fair Snape Fell is known for being one of the boggiest areas with peat hags and drainage ditches. Clougha Pike offers varied terrain from heather moorland to rocky sections.

Nicky Nook Summit features a trig point, Grizedale Reservoir, and a prominent Jubilee cairn. Ward's Stone has two trig points and large gritstone boulders, including the 'Ward's Stone' itself, which attracts climbers. Fair Snape Fell is distinguished by its cairn, 'Paddy's Pole', a trig point, and a shelter. Clougha Pike is notable for its cliff-like section, heather moorland, and the unique Clougha Pike Chambers, an artwork by Andy Goldsworthy.

Beyond hiking the peaks themselves, the area around Over Wyresdale offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including challenging loops like the 'Clougha Pike, Ward's Stone & Wolfhole Crag Ridge loop'. There are also many hiking routes, such as the 'Abbeystead Reservoir loop' for an easier option, or the more difficult 'Wolfhole Crag and Ward's Stone from 'The Trough''. For cycling enthusiasts, there are touring bicycle routes like the 'Rural Road to Glasson Dock loop'. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for Running Trails around Over Wyresdale, Hiking around Over Wyresdale, and Cycling around Over Wyresdale.

Ward's Stone is the highest point in the Forest of Bowland, standing at 560-561 meters (1,841 feet). Its extensive summit plateau features two trig points and offers exceptional views.

Visitors to Clougha Pike should be aware that dogs are generally not allowed due to grouse shooting and breeding activities. The gamekeeper frequently patrols the area. The summit offers amazing views west over Lancaster to Morecambe Bay and north-west to the Lake District. The ridgeline from here to Ward's Stone is a notable route for a longer walk.

Ward's Stone offers a challenging yet rewarding long walk. Be prepared for potentially rough terrain, peat hags, and boggy conditions, especially after rain. The summit plateau is extensive, and the western trig point is situated on large gritstone boulders. On a clear day, the views are expansive, reaching the Three Peaks country, Lakeland fells, and Morecambe Bay.

Visitors frequently highlight the stunning panoramic views from various summits, the varied walking experiences, and the sense of accomplishment from reaching the peaks. The accessibility of some fells, like Nicky Nook Summit, makes them popular for a quick escape, while the more challenging routes to Ward's Stone and Fair Snape Fell appeal to those seeking a more rigorous hike. The unique landmarks, such as the Clougha Pike Chambers, also add to the appeal.

For beginners or those looking for an easier ascent, Nicky Nook Summit is an excellent choice. Despite its modest height, it offers rewarding views and is known for its relatively easy walks. Parlick Fell summit is also a good option, described as a 'great hill for kids' due to its manageable climb.

Paddy's Pole is the distinctive cairn located on Fair Snape Fell. It marks the summit, which stands at 510 meters (1,673 feet), and includes a trig point and a shelter. It is the highest point in the southwest area of the Forest of Bowland and offers awesome views over Blackpool and out to sea, as well as inland across the Forest of Bowland.