Ward's Stone from Tarnbrook
Lancashire
Ward's Stone is the roof of the Bowland fells at 561 metres and this dog friendly route up from the tiny hamlet of Tarnbrook is the most direct way in. A Land Rover track climbs steadily from the valley through rough sheep pasture and heather moor, with big views opening westwards over Morecambe Bay and the Lakeland fells from the airy summit plateau, before descending back the same way or via Grit Fell.
This is wild, exposed ground where dogs must stay on a short lead at all times: sheep graze the whole lower fell, and ground-nesting birds like curlew, lapwing and golden plover use the access land from early spring well into summer. The terrain is tough underfoot with peaty bogs, heather tussocks and some steep rocky sections near the top. There are no facilities anywhere near the start, so carry plenty of water, a warm layer and all the usual navigation kit.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 13.0 km (8.1 miles)
- Difficulty
- Challenging
- Duration
- 5 hr
- Walk Type
- Peak, Moorland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- None
- Livestock Risk
- High
- Facilities
- None on site, the nearest facilities are the dog friendly cafe and toilets at Dunsop Bridge.
- Parking
- Small pull-in layby at the start of the no-through road to Tarnbrook, space for around 8 cars, no facilities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ward's Stone from Tarnbrook dog friendly?
Ward's Stone from Tarnbrook is open to dogs, but comes with a fairly strict set of rules that earn it a modest 5.5 out of 10 for dog friendliness. It's best suited to fit, experienced dogs and owners who are comfortable on rough, exposed moorland — this is genuinely wild fell country rather than a gentle stroll.
Can dogs be off lead at Ward's Stone from Tarnbrook?
Dogs must stay on a short lead at all times throughout this route. Sheep graze the lower fell year-round, and from early spring well into summer the access land is home to ground-nesting birds including curlew, lapwing and golden plover — so there's no opportunity for off-lead running here.
What should I know before visiting Ward's Stone from Tarnbrook with my dog?
Come well prepared — there are no facilities at the start or anywhere on the route, so bring plenty of water for both you and your dog, warm layers and navigation kit. The terrain is challenging, with peaty bogs, heather tussocks and steep rocky sections near the summit at 561 metres. The nearest facilities, including a dog-friendly cafe and toilets, are at Dunsop Bridge.
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