Warton Crag Local Nature Reserve
Explore rugged limestone landscapes and ancient woodlands with stunning views over Morecambe Bay at Warton Crag Nature Reserve.
Warton Crag Local Nature Reserve, perched above Morecambe Bay near Carnforth, Lancashire, offers a captivating blend of limestone pavement, ancient woodland, and species-rich grassland. This free-access reserve features steep, rocky paths leading to panoramic views of the Lake District and Morecambe Bay, with notable wildlife including rare butterflies and peregrine falcons. Well-marked trails and a large car park make it a rewarding destination for nature lovers and hikers.
A brief summary to Warton Crag Local Nature Reserve
- Crag Rd, Carnforth, Warton, LA5 9RY, GB
- +441524701601
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a spot in the free car park, which fills quickly on weekends and sunny days.
- Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear due to steep, rocky, and sometimes slippery paths.
- Bring a map or use GPS as trail signage varies across the reserve.
- Watch for ticks and take precautions during warmer months.
- Enjoy a refreshing drink at the nearby Old School Brewery after your walk.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Car
Driving from Lancaster or Carnforth, take the A6 to Carnforth and follow signs to Warton village. The main car park at Warton Crag is located off Crag Road near the quarry and offers free parking. Travel time from Lancaster is approximately 20-30 minutes. Parking can be limited on busy days, so early arrival is recommended.
-
Bus
Local bus services run from Carnforth to Warton village with a journey time of about 10-15 minutes. From the village center, the nature reserve is accessible via a short walk. Bus frequency may be limited on weekends and public holidays.
-
Train
The nearest train station is Carnforth, about 3 km from Warton Crag. From Carnforth station, take a local bus or taxi to Warton village. Train services connect to Lancaster and other regional hubs with travel times varying from 15 to 45 minutes depending on origin.
Warton Crag Local Nature Reserve location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Windy Conditions
Discover more about Warton Crag Local Nature Reserve
A Dramatic Limestone Landscape Above Morecambe Bay
Warton Crag rises prominently above the scenic Morecambe Bay, offering visitors a striking mosaic of limestone pavement, grassland, and ancient semi-natural woodland. The reserve’s rugged terrain is characterized by thin, free-draining soils and rocky outcrops that support a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna. The limestone pavement is home to rare plants such as rigid buckler fern, juniper, pale St. John’s wort, and angular Solomon’s-seal, making it a botanist’s delight.Flora and Fauna in a Rich Calcareous Habitat
The calcareous soils of Potts Wood and Strickland Wood nurture a lush woodland of ash, hazel, yew, birch, and rowan trees. In spring, the woodland floor bursts into color with wood anemone, bluebells, primrose, early purple orchids, violets, and pignut. The limestone grassland blooms with bird’s-foot trefoil, horseshoe vetch, kidney vetch, common rock rose, and thyme through May and June. This diverse habitat supports some of Britain’s rarest butterflies, including pearl-bordered fritillary, small pearl-bordered fritillary, dark green fritillary, northern brown argus, wall brown, and dingy skipper.Wildlife Highlights and Conservation Importance
Warton Crag is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Peregrine falcons nest here during summer, and the reserve is home to notable moths like least minor, barred tooth-striped, and white-spotted sable. Insect species such as lacewings, beetles, and sawflies abound, while common lizards and slow worms can often be spotted basking on sunny rocks. The grazing by cows helps maintain the species-rich limestone grassland, preserving this nationally significant conservation site.Trails, Views, and Visitor Experience
The reserve offers well-marked trails with varying difficulty, including a popular 4km long route that ascends steep, rocky sections culminating at the 163-meter summit. Here, visitors find a beacon and trig point with sweeping views across Morecambe Bay, the Lake District, and beyond. The beacon has historical significance, having been part of a national chain used to signal the Spanish Armada and relit for royal jubilees. The summit area is wooded, providing a mix of open vistas and shaded woodland paths.Access, Amenities, and Practical Information
Warton Crag is accessible year-round with no entrance fee. A large, free car park is available near the main quarry, though it can fill quickly on busy days. The reserve is dog-friendly, but visitors should be cautious near quarry edges and watch for ticks. Sturdy footwear is recommended due to uneven and sometimes slippery paths. Nearby amenities include a craft brewery pub at the car park and local pubs in Warton village, which also holds historical interest linked to the Washington family.Local Heritage and Surrounding Attractions
The nearby village of Warton enriches the visit with its historic connections to the Washington family, ancestors of George Washington. St Oswald’s Church in the village houses the weathered Washington family coat of arms. The area also offers additional natural and cultural attractions such as Leighton Moss RSPB reserve and the scenic Silverdale hills, making Warton Crag a perfect part of a broader exploration of Lancashire’s natural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Clock Tower
9.7 km
Historic Elizabethan-style Clock Tower standing proudly on Morecambe’s seafront, symbolizing the town’s Victorian heritage and timeless charm.
Kirkhead Tower / Summerhouse
10.4 km
Historic Kirkhead Tower offers stunning panoramic views over Morecambe Bay and the Lake District from its tranquil spot near Grange-over-Sands.
National Trust - Hill Top Beatrix Potter House
26.2 km
Discover the charming Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's historic home, where nature and imagination intertwine in the heart of the Lake District.
Grizedale
26.7 km
Discover the natural beauty and artistic wonders of Grizedale Forest, a national park filled with adventure and serenity in the Lake District.
Piel Castle
27.3 km
Explore the historical charm and stunning coastal views of Piel Castle, a medieval fortress on Piel Island, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Furness Abbey
27.3 km
Discover Furness Abbey, a historical landmark in Barrow-in-Furness showcasing stunning monastic architecture and rich heritage amidst beautiful landscapes.
Ribblehead Viaduct
27.6 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Ribblehead Viaduct, an architectural marvel surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Yorkshire Dales.
Bleasdale Circle
27.7 km
A Bronze Age timber circle and burial mound where ancient rituals echoed across the Bowland fells.
Queen Adelaide's Hill
27.8 km
Discover Queen Adelaide's Hill, a breathtaking viewpoint in the Lake District, offering stunning vistas of Windermere and lush landscapes.
Forest of Bowland National Landscape
28.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Forest of Bowland National Landscape, a serene escape filled with rolling hills, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.
Orrest Head Viewpoint
28.1 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Windermere at Orrest Head Viewpoint, a must-visit in the English Lake District for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Windermere and Troutbeck
28.6 km
Historic Lakeland stone cottage with expansive gardens and stunning fells views, nestled at the foot of Troutbeck Valley near Windermere village.
Latterbarrow
29.5 km
Explore Latterbarrow: Experience breathtaking views and refreshing hikes in the heart of the Lake District, perfect for nature lovers.
Holehird Gardens
29.5 km
Explore the enchanting Holehird Gardens in the Lake District, a floral paradise offering stunning views and diverse plant collections for all nature lovers.
Brock Valley Picnic Site
29.8 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at Brock Valley Picnic Site – the perfect picnic spot in Claughton for families and nature lovers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Warton Old Rectory
0.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of a 14th-century rectory, a testament to medieval life and ecclesiastical power in the heart of Warton village.
Leighton Hall Estate
2.1 km
Explore the historic Gillow family home with its enchanting gardens, woodland walks, and interactive experiences near Carnforth.
Arnside Tower
5.6 km
Explore Arnside Tower, a hauntingly beautiful 15th-century pele tower ruin nestled on a limestone knoll with stunning estuary views in Cumbria.
Fairy Steps
6.6 km
Discover the enchanting limestone gorge and legendary Fairy Steps near Milnthorpe, a scenic family-friendly walk rich in natural beauty and folklore.
Halton Castle (Remains)
7.6 km
Explore the ancient earthworks of Halton Castle, a Norman motte and bailey fortress overlooking the scenic River Lune valley near Lancaster.
Lune Aqueduct
8.5 km
Discover the breathtaking Lune Aqueduct in Lancaster, a stunning feat of Victorian engineering and a picturesque tourist attraction.
Eric Morecambe Statue
9.8 km
Celebrate British comedy legend Eric Morecambe with this iconic bronze statue overlooking Morecambe Bay’s stunning seaside promenade.
Stone Jetty
10.1 km
Historic stone jetty with stunning bay views, interactive art, and a charming café on Morecambe’s scenic seafront.
Lancaster Maritime Museum
10.2 km
Explore Lancaster’s maritime heritage and the city’s complex history in immersive Georgian quay buildings by the River Lune.
Hornby Castle
10.3 km
Historic Hornby Castle rises above the Lune Valley, blending medieval roots, Victorian Gothic charm, and renowned gardens in a private English estate.
Judges Lodgings Museum
10.6 km
Step into Lancaster’s oldest townhouse to explore Georgian elegance, Gillows furniture, childhood nostalgia, and a complex local history beneath the castle walls.
Lancaster Castle
10.6 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Lancaster Castle, a must-see historical landmark in the heart of Lancaster, England.
The Cottage Museum
10.7 km
Step into 18th-century Lancaster at The Cottage Museum, a tiny immersive home showcasing working-class life and rich local history.
Lancaster City Museum
10.7 km
Discover Lancaster’s rich history and military heritage in a stunning Georgian former town hall with immersive galleries and fine art exhibitions.
Queen Victoria Memorial, Lancaster
10.8 km
A majestic 1906 tribute in Dalton Square celebrating Queen Victoria and Victorian-era luminaries with rich symbolism and historic artistry.
Essential places to dine
The Wheatsheaf, Beetham
7.2 km
Historic country pub and inn in Milnthorpe offering hearty British fare, cozy rooms, and warm, dog-friendly hospitality in scenic Cumbria.
The Fenwick
9.4 km
Historic 250-year-old gastro pub and charming country inn in Claughton, offering fine seafood, cozy rooms, and warm Lancashire hospitality.
Quite Simply French - Restaurant with Rooms
10.2 km
Elegant French dining and boutique rooms on Lancaster’s scenic St George’s Quay, blending classic cuisine with modern comfort.
The Quarterhouse
10.6 km
Seasonal British small plates and cocktails in Lancaster’s stylish city-center bistro with a warm, contemporary vibe.
Merchants 1688
10.7 km
Historic 17th-century wine cellar pub serving modern British cuisine with local ingredients beside Lancaster Castle.
The Waterwitch
11.3 km
A welcoming canal-side gastropub in Lancaster blending traditional English fare with standout vegan options and a lively community vibe.
L'Enclume
13.0 km
Experience Simon Rogan’s three Michelin-starred farm-to-table masterpiece in Cartmel, where seasonal British ingredients shine in innovative tasting menus.
Romneys
19.1 km
Classic British carvery dining with family-friendly amenities and cozy accommodation in the heart of Kendal.
The Punch Bowl Inn, Crosthwaite
19.4 km
Historic country inn in Lyth Valley offering acclaimed local cuisine, cozy boutique rooms, and timeless Lake District charm.
Bay Horse Inn at Bay Horse
19.4 km
Historic 18th-century gastropub blending traditional charm with locally sourced cuisine in a scenic Lancashire village setting.
The Black Labrador
19.9 km
A cozy, dog-friendly country pub near Kendal serving exceptional local dishes in a warm, welcoming Lake District setting.
Comida [food]
20.3 km
Savor vibrant Spanish tapas in Kendal’s charming Highgate street at Comida, where fresh flavors meet friendly service in a cozy setting.
The Greenhouse Restaurant
20.4 km
Modern British dining with stunning views of Kendal Castle, nestled in the scenic Castle Green Hotel gardens.
Ye Olde Fleece Inn
20.5 km
Historic gastropub in Kendal offering seasonal British fare, quality ales, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Cottage Kitchen
20.5 km
A cozy Kendal café offering hearty breakfasts and dedicated gluten-free options in a charming, welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kitty Brown Boutique
1.8 km
A warm, independent women’s fashion boutique in Carnforth, offering curated clothing, footwear and accessories with comfort, style and sustainability at heart.
Carnforth Bookshop
1.9 km
Discover Carnforth Bookshop, a family-run independent haven of books, gifts, and local heritage in the heart of historic Lancashire.
The Arndale Shopping Centre
9.8 km
Morecambe’s only covered shopping centre offering everyday retail and discount stores in a convenient town centre location.
Beach Bird
9.9 km
Discover unique antiques, vintage fashion, and artistic homewares at Beach Bird, Morecambe’s beloved artisan gift shop on the scenic promenade.
GB Antiques & Furniture Centre
11.6 km
Over 100 dealers, thousands of treasures, endless browsing in Lancaster's premier antiques marketplace.
The Book Lounge
13.5 km
Discover a cozy haven of books, puzzles, and community spirit in the heart of Kirkby Lonsdale’s historic Main Street.
Hillside Toys -Farm Models & Toys
20.2 km
Discover a nostalgic world of farm models and classic toys at Hillside Toys in Ingleton, where agricultural heritage comes to life.
Iluvmemost Boutique
20.5 km
Discover stylish women's fashion in Kendal’s charming Iluvmemost Boutique, where quality meets personalized service in a cozy setting.
Kendal Indoor market
20.6 km
Historic Kendal Indoor Market blends traditional charm with local crafts and fresh produce in a vibrant covered shopping hub.
Elephant Yard Shopping
20.6 km
Discover modern style and local charm at Elephant Yard Shopping, Kendal’s vibrant retail and community hub.
Waterstones
20.6 km
Discover a world of books and culture at Waterstones Kendal, your welcoming literary hub in the Westmorland Centre.
Ryman Stationery
20.6 km
Your reliable source for quality stationery essentials in Kendal’s Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Clarks Outlet
20.7 km
Discover quality footwear and great savings at Clarks Outlet, Kendal’s trusted shoe destination in the Westmorland Shopping Centre.
Blackhall Shopping Yard Kendal
20.7 km
Historic artisan shopping yard in Kendal's heart, home to independent specialists and local heritage.
Muse Boutique
21.2 km
Unique and affordable ladies' fashion boutique in the heart of Ulverston’s historic Market Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Smugglers Den Morecambe
9.4 km
Historic 1740s pub in Morecambe offering friendly service, quality ales, and a cozy atmosphere at great value.
The Bowerham
11.9 km
A historic Grade II listed pub in Lancaster offering great food, live music, and a welcoming community atmosphere near beautiful parkland.
Strickland Arms
14.9 km
Traditional British pub with hearty fare and warm hospitality nestled near Kendal’s scenic Lake District gateway.
Fylde Bar
15.1 km
The Mill at Fylde College is Lancaster University's lively on-campus sports bar, perfect for affordable meals, live sports, and social gatherings.
Wheatsheaf Inn, Brigsteer
17.4 km
A charming countryside pub and boutique inn in Brigsteer offering rustic comfort, excellent food, and warm hospitality near Kendal.
The Barrel House
20.4 km
Discover Kendal’s craft beer gem with vibrant ales, cozy wooden huts, and lively quiz nights in a historic brewery setting.
Fell Bar Kendal
20.4 km
Discover Kendal’s vibrant Fell Bar, a quirky craft beer haven with artisan ales, live music, and delicious pizzas in a lively two-floor setting.
19 The Wine Bar
20.4 km
An eclectic wine bar in Kendal with a Mediterranean rooftop terrace, cozy interiors, and a vibrant social scene.
Masons Yard 24
20.6 km
A lively Kendal pub blending modern style, strong cocktails, and hearty food with a welcoming vibe and renovated outdoor space.
The New Union
20.9 km
Kendal’s lively craft pub with an exceptional whisky selection, great beer, and a welcoming, no-nonsense atmosphere.
The Whistling Pig
24.1 km
A welcoming Staveley pub serving hearty local roasts and generous portions in a cosy, friendly atmosphere near Kendal.
The Boathouse | Bar & Restaurant
25.2 km
Stylish gastropub at Windermere Marina Village with scenic lake views, fresh seasonal menus, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
Boaters Bar
25.9 km
Lake District’s premier lakeside bar offering craft beers, live entertainment, family fun, and stunning views over Lake Windermere.
Quayside Bowness
26.0 km
Lakeside bar and kitchen with stunning views, live sports, and vibrant nightlife across three lively floors in Bowness-on-Windermere.
The Arts Bar
26.0 km
Creative cocktails and seasonal dishes served in a cozy, arts-inspired setting in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Wheelhouse Nightclub
26.0 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Windermere Social Club
27.0 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Manhattans Nightclub
29.4 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
29.4 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The Lounge C9
29.4 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Funny Girls
40.1 km
Discover the magic of Blackpool's Funny Girls, where dazzling performances meet delightful dining in an unforgettable night out.
Club underground
40.2 km
Experience Blackpool’s authentic old-school basement club with vibrant music, friendly crowds, and late-night energy on Talbot Road.
Sanuk Nightclub
40.3 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife at Sanuk Nightclub, a premier venue with six rooms and a lively house music scene on the iconic promenade.
Popworld - Blackpool
40.4 km
Experience retro pop hits and vibrant party vibes at Popworld Blackpool, the iconic two-floor nightclub on the Promenade.
Trilogy Nightclub
40.4 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant nightlife across three floors of music, lights, and energy at Trilogy Nightclub.
The Tache Rock Club
40.5 km
Blackpool’s spirited rock nightclub offering authentic music, friendly vibes, and late-night energy in a casual setting.
Hush Nightclub
40.5 km
Experience Blackpool’s vibrant RnB and Afrobeats nightlife at Hush Nightclub, where music, cocktails, and atmosphere come alive.
Hawes Club
41.9 km
Discover the charm of Hawes Club, a cozy bar offering affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Yorkshire's stunning Dales.
Switch Nightclub
43.0 km
Energetic and affordable nightlife hub in Preston, popular with a middle-aged crowd and known for its lively atmosphere.
Blitz Venue & Nightclub
43.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Preston at Blitz Venue & Nightclub, where live music and affordable drinks create unforgettable evenings.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Natural
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly