Scout Scar

Scout Scar, also called Underbarrow Scar, is a limestone hill in the English Lake District, west of Kendal in Cumbria. It rises above the village of Underbarrow and reaches 235 m (771 ft). It is one of the most accessible viewpoints near Kendal.

What is Scout Scar?

It is a limestone escarpment: the ground rises gently on the eastern side and drops steeply away to the west. That gives the ridge wide open views while keeping the walk up short and undemanding. The hill has a topographic prominence of about 109 m, which makes it a HuMP, a hill that stands at least 100 m clear of its surroundings.

Why visit?

Alfred Wainwright covered Scout Scar in a chapter of The Outlying Fells of Lakeland. The summit he describes is a lower top of 764 ft (233 m), about 270 m south of the true high point. His recommended anticlockwise route also takes in neighbouring Cunswick Scar (679 ft, 207 m), and the two hills combine into one easy circuit.

What is there to see on top?

The ridge carries "The Mushroom", a round stone shelter built in 1912. A view indicator (toposcope) runs around its rim and names the fells you can pick out in the distance. On a clear day the view takes in the Lakeland fells, the Howgills and even Morecambe Bay. Looking north you can spot Red Screes and Fairfield among others.

Which route should you choose?

• Short loop: a family-friendly circuit of about 2.6 km with roughly 36 m of ascent, taking around an hour. There are no public toilets or cafes on site, so bring your own supplies.
• Scout Scar and Cunswick Scar: an easy circular walk linking the two Wainwright outlying fells.
• Kendal to Sizergh Castle: a route of about 7 miles across limestone grassland with far-reaching views.

Route lengths vary with the starting point, so check the plan of your chosen loop before setting out.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Scout Scar?

The highest point is 235 m (771 ft). The lower top described by Wainwright is 233 m.

Is it a hard walk?

No. The approach from the gentler eastern side is short, and the shortest loop is only about 2.6 km. Take care near the steep drop on the western edge.

Where is Scout Scar?

West of Kendal, above the village of Underbarrow, in Cumbria, England.

What is the Mushroom?

It is a viewing shelter dating from 1912 on the ridge, ringed by a toposcope that identifies the visible fells.

Are there toilets or food nearby?

There are no public toilets or eateries on the hill itself.

Who is it for?

Scout Scar suits families, anyone who likes a short walk with a big view, and hill-baggers working through Wainwright's outlying fells. For a longer day, pair it with Cunswick Scar or the route to Sizergh Castle. Pick a clear day: the panorama is the main attraction here.