Highlight • Trail
Hiking
5.0
(47)
Eggerslack Wood is a captivating ancient woodland and trail located just north of Grange-over-Sands in Cumbria, offering a tranquil escape within the Southern Lakeland fells. Situated on the slopes of Hampsfell, this forest highlight, reaching an elevation of approximately 146 metres, is renowned for its diverse native trees and a network of paths that invite exploration. It serves as a natural gateway to the wider Hampsfell area, providing a rich blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
What truly draws…
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February 8, 2021
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Eggerslack Wood
4.8
(10)
35
hikers
6.30km
01:53
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.4
(5)
19
hikers
4.96km
01:33
200m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(12)
49
hikers
9.39km
02:53
320m
320m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 150 m
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Wednesday 11 March
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7°C
15 %
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Max wind speed: 39.0 km/h
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While Eggerslack Wood offers a maze of paths, a typical exploration, especially when combined with a walk to Hampsfell, can range from 3 to 5 kilometers (2 to 3 miles). The duration largely depends on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the viewpoints, but expect to spend anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours for a comprehensive loop.
Eggerslack Wood features varied terrain with steep inclines and rugged paths, making some sections challenging. While there are easier, flatter paths, the overall experience is rated as intermediate. Beginners should be prepared for uneven ground and potential slipperiness, especially when wet. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended.
Parking is available in Grange-over-Sands, from where you can access the wood. Specific parking areas near the trailheads are limited, so it's often best to park in the town and walk up. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, is advisable to secure a spot.
Yes, Eggerslack Wood is accessible from Grange-over-Sands, which has a train station on the Furness Line. Regular bus services also connect Grange-over-Sands with nearby towns like Kendal and Cartmel, making it feasible to reach the wood without a car.
The wood is rich in history. You can discover old pitsteads, remnants from when the woodland was actively managed for coppicing to produce bobbins and charcoal. Another notable feature is Routen Well, one of the few places in Grange-over-Sands where water flows on the surface. Concrete water tanks, possibly Victorian or from WWII, also add to its historical intrigue.
Eggerslack Wood is a haven for wildlife. Deer are known to inhabit the area, and you might spot various bird species among the diverse native trees. The rich undergrowth of holly, ivy, and ferns provides excellent habitats for smaller creatures, making it a rewarding spot for nature observation.
Many visitors enjoy combining their exploration of Eggerslack Wood with a walk to the Outlying Wainwright top of Hampsfell. This offers extended views and a more challenging experience. While specific waymarked circular routes within the wood are limited, the network of public and informal paths allows for many self-guided circular options, often starting and ending in Grange-over-Sands.
While spring is magical with bluebells, Eggerslack Wood offers beauty year-round. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, making it a picturesque time for a walk. In summer, the dense canopy provides welcome shade. Even in winter, the tranquil atmosphere and crisp views can be very rewarding, though paths may be more slippery.
Eggerslack Wood is highly rated as a dog-friendly location, offering ample space for canine companions to explore. While dogs are generally welcome, it's always good practice to keep them under control, especially given the presence of wildlife and other hikers. Please ensure you clean up after your dog to help maintain the natural beauty of the wood.
Yes, Eggerslack Wood is conveniently located just north of Grange-over-Sands, a charming town that offers a variety of amenities. You'll find numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants for refreshments, as well as a range of accommodation options from guesthouses to hotels, making it an ideal base for exploring the area.
Eggerslack Wood, along with the adjacent Heaning Wood, is designated an Ancient Woodland Site because it has been continuously wooded since at least 1600 AD. This long history of woodland cover means it has developed a rich and complex ecosystem, supporting diverse native trees, plants, and wildlife that are characteristic of ancient forests.