Barrowfield Wood and Scout Scar Loop

This medium-difficulty loop of around 13 km (8.1 miles) with roughly 300 metres (985 feet) of ascent combines limestone escarpment, mixed woodland, open pasture and broad Lakeland views. The route is generally associated with the Scout Scar area west of Kendal, with the most practical trailhead near Scout Scar Car Park, Underbarrow Road, Kendal LA8 8HB, about 2.5 km (1.5 miles) southwest of Kendal town centre. The Lake District National Park lists this as the main access point for Scout Scar and notes there is no direct public transport to the car park itself. (lakedistrict.gov.uk)

Expect a walk with two distinct personalities. Early on, the route tends to feel airy and open as it gains the limestone edge of Scout Scar, where the ground can be stony and exposed. Later, it settles into quieter woodland and farmland around Barrowfield Wood, where paths can be softer, muddier and more enclosed, especially after rain. With 300 metres of climbing spread across the outing, this is not a relentless ascent, but there are enough short pulls and uneven sections to justify the medium rating. Good footwear, a windproof layer and confident route-following are sensible, particularly if low cloud rolls over the scar. If using digital navigation, HiiKER is the best fit for checking junctions through the woods and field-edge paths.

Getting to the start

By car, the simplest approach is from Kendal via Allhallows Lane/Underbarrow Road to Scout Scar Car Park, Underbarrow Road, Kendal LA8 8HB. The National Park gives directions from Kendal Town Hall and identifies the car park on the right as the road begins to descend. Parking is the normal choice for this walk. (lakedistrict.gov.uk)

By public transport, the nearest major access hub is Kendal. Kendal has rail and bus connections, but there is no direct public transport to the Scout Scar trailhead, so walkers usually take a taxi from town or walk out from Kendal as an extension. The outward walk from Kendal adds distance and time, but it is a workable option for those arriving by train. (lakedistrict.gov.uk)

What the route feels like

From the Scout Scar side, the route usually begins with a steady climb onto the escarpment. The limestone underfoot can be rough and occasionally slippery when damp, and the exposed edge means wind can be much stronger than it felt in Kendal. One of the best-known landmarks here is the “Mushroom” viewpoint, a shelter and viewing feature near the top that looks across the Lyth Valley toward higher Lakeland fells. The National Park describes this area as offering some of the best views in the southern Lakes. (lakedistrict.gov.uk)

As the loop continues south and east toward Barrowfield, the character changes. The scar gives way to a mix of pasture, gates, walls and woodland tracks. Paths around Barrowfield Wood and the wider Barrowfield forest area can feel more intricate than the open ridge, with multiple path options and occasional farm access tracks, so this is where careful navigation matters most. Some route descriptions in the area pass near Barrowfield Farm, then re-enter woodland before returning toward the scar or car park. (benthamfootpathgroup.co.uk)

The terrain is varied enough that pacing matters. The open scar is fast in dry conditions, but woodland sections can be rooty, muddy and slower going. Allow extra time if walking after wet weather, in leaf fall, or with children who will want to stop at viewpoints and woodland clearings.

Landmarks, geology and views

Scout Scar is a classic limestone escarpment, and that geology shapes much of the walk. The pale rock, thin soils and open grassland support a different plant community from the damper woods below. The scar itself is part of the wider Scout and Cunswick Scars area, recognised for its scientific importance. (en.wikipedia.org)

The views are a major reason people choose this route. On clear days, the outlook stretches over the Lyth Valley and toward well-known Lakeland peaks including Coniston Old Man, Bowfell and the Langdale Pikes, as noted by the National Park. The contrast between the open western panorama and the sheltered eastern woodland is one of the route’s biggest strengths. (lakedistrict.gov.uk)

Barrowfield Wood adds a quieter scenic element: mixed trees, field margins and glimpses back toward the scar. This section feels more intimate than the ridge and is often where walkers notice birdsong, changing light through the canopy and seasonal colour.

Wildlife and seasonal interest

Because the route crosses both limestone grassland and woodland, it supports a good range of wildlife habitats. On the scar, expect short turf, grazing land and limestone flora; local walking notes mention plants such as rock-rose and horseshoe vetch on the