Lund's Tower

Lund's Tower is a Victorian stone folly on Earl Crag, just south-west of the village of Sutton-in-Craven in the Craven area of Yorkshire. Finished in 1887 and now Grade II listed, it is a small battlemented landmark that rewards a hill walk more than a long visit.

Who built it, and what does it look like?

The tower was commissioned by James Lund (1829-1903), with the design supplied by R. B. Broster & Sons, an architectural firm from Keighley. It stands roughly 11 metres (about 36 feet) high and is built of neatly dressed stone, topped by corbelled, crenellated battlements. Inside, a stone spiral staircase is recorded as having 39 steps. The commemorative plaque has weathered beyond reading.

Why Lund built it is told in more than one way. Locals call it the Ethel Tower, linking it to his daughter, either her birth or her 21st birthday. Others know it as the Jubilee Tower, after Queen Victoria's jubilee in 1887. Neither story is confirmed, so treat both as local tradition. You will also see it called Cowling Pinnacle or Sutton Pinnacle on maps and in guides.

What else is nearby?

Wainman's Pinnacle, a second monument, stands just to the west. Together the two are nicknamed the "Salt and Pepper Pots", since from a distance they look like a cruet set on the skyline. Most walkers visit both on one loop.

Historic England lists the tower under entry 1131781, first listed on 23 October 1984, with the address Dick Lane, Sutton-in-Craven, BD20 7BD.

How do you get there?

You reach the tower on foot. A well-known walking route starts at Sutton Park in the village and follows public footpaths south-west up to Earl Crag. The ground is open hillside, so wear sturdy footwear: paths can be wet and muddy. There is no charge to visit, and tourist listings describe the spot as dog-friendly, though dogs should be kept under control near grazing animals.

Sutton-in-Craven lies between Keighley and Skipton. Leave the car in the village and walk the rest.

When should you go?

The tower sits in open country, so a clear day makes the walk most worthwhile. Long spring and summer days give plenty of time for the loop, and autumn light brings out the texture of the stonework. After heavy rain the paths slow you down, and in winter dusk comes early and the exposed hilltop can be windy.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee? No. The tower stands in open countryside and is viewed free of charge from public paths.

When was Lund's Tower built? In 1887, for James Lund, to a design by R. B. Broster & Sons of Keighley.

Why is it called the Ethel Tower or Jubilee Tower? Local accounts tie Ethel to the founder's daughter and Jubilee to Queen Victoria's 1887 jubilee. No firm evidence settles either explanation.

What are the "Salt and Pepper Pots"? The nickname covers Lund's Tower and the neighbouring Wainman's Pinnacle, two monuments on the hills above Sutton-in-Craven.