Waugh's Well: Literary Sanctuary on Scout Moor

A serene moorland monument honoring Edwin Waugh, Lancashire’s cherished dialect poet and his creative refuge on Scout Moor.

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Waugh's Well, nestled on Scout Moor near Edenfield in Rossendale, is a historic stone monument built around a natural spring. It commemorates Edwin Waugh, Lancashire's celebrated dialect poet, who found solace and inspiration here during his stays at nearby Foe Edge Farm. The well, established in 1866 and restored in the 20th century, remains a tranquil spot for walkers and literary enthusiasts, surrounded by moorland and the ruins of the farm where Waugh wrote much of his work.

A brief summary to Waugh's Well

Rochdale, Rossendale, GB
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 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

Wear sturdy walking shoes as the well is located on moorland with uneven terrain.
Visit the nearby ruins of Foe Edge Farm to connect with the poet’s living environment.
Bring a camera to capture the bronze figurehead and panoramic moorland views.
Check weather conditions before visiting, as the moor can be exposed and windy.
Read some of Edwin Waugh’s dialect poetry beforehand to enrich your visit.

Getting There

Bus

Take the bus from Rochdale to Edenfield, which takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. From Edenfield, a 40-minute walk on marked footpaths leads to Waugh's Well. Bus services run regularly but check schedules for weekend frequency. No direct parking at the well.
Car

Drive from Rochdale to a designated parking area near Scout Moor, about 20 minutes. From the parking spot, a 15 to 20-minute walk on uneven moorland terrain leads to Waugh's Well. Parking is limited and no facilities are available onsite.
Walking

For experienced walkers, a 2 to 3-hour hike from Waterfoot follows the Rossendale Way trail passing through scenic moorland to Waugh's Well. Terrain is rugged and exposed, requiring proper footwear and weather preparedness.

Waugh's Well location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Windy Conditions
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Waugh's Well

A Tribute to Lancashire's Dialect Poet

Waugh's Well stands as a heartfelt memorial to Edwin Waugh (1817–1890), one of Lancashire's most beloved poets, renowned for his evocative dialect verses capturing rural life. In 1865, during a difficult period marked by struggles with alcoholism, Waugh retreated to Foe Edge Farm on Scout Moor, a remote and peaceful moorland setting near Edenfield. The farm, run by Bill and Ann Taylor, provided a refuge where Waugh could recover and write. Close by, a natural spring offered fresh water, described by Waugh as a "rindle of cold spring water," which inspired his friends to commemorate him with a stone monument beside it in 1866.

Evolution and Restoration of the Well

Originally a simple stone marker, Waugh's Well was expanded in 1870 to include seating and a more elaborate stone structure, reflecting Waugh's growing fame. In 1966, a major restoration took place, led by local societies dedicated to preserving Lancashire's literary heritage. The well was remodelled and adorned with a bronze figurehead of Waugh, crafted by Mrs. N. Lord, capturing his likeness and dates. This restoration reinforced the well's status as a cultural landmark and a place of literary pilgrimage.

The Surrounding Landscape and Historical Context

The well is situated on Scout Moor, an expanse of open moorland that feeds the Scout Moor Brook, offering scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere. Nearby lie the ruins of Foe Edge Farm, demolished in the mid-1970s, with only some back walls remaining, serving as silent witnesses to Waugh's creative retreat. The site is accessible via public footpaths, including the Rossendale Way, making it a favored stop for walkers exploring the Lancashire countryside.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Waugh's Well is more than a monument; it symbolizes the enduring connection between place and creativity. Edwin Waugh, often called "the Lancashire Burns," immortalized the local dialect and rural life in his poetry and prose, influencing generations of readers. The well and its surroundings evoke the spirit of his work and life, embodying themes of resilience, nature, and cultural identity. The establishment of the Edwin Waugh Society and ongoing preservation efforts highlight the well's importance as a heritage site.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors to Waugh's Well find a peaceful retreat amid open moorland, with the gentle sound of the spring and panoramic views enhancing the contemplative mood. The bronze head of Waugh and the stone structure invite reflection on the poet's life and work. Nearby information boards provide historical context, enriching the visit. The site is ideal for those interested in literary history, nature walks, and Lancashire's cultural landscape.

Conservation and Access Today

The well and its surroundings are maintained through local efforts, ensuring the site remains accessible and preserved for future generations. While the original farm buildings are gone, the area retains its rural charm and historical resonance. The well is open year-round, accessible via marked footpaths, and offers a quiet spot for rest and inspiration on longer hikes across Scout Moor.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Waugh's Well: Literary Sanctuary on Scout Moor

A brief summary to Waugh's Well

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Car

Walking

Waugh's Well location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Waugh's Well

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Waugh's Well

A Tribute to Lancashire's Dialect Poet

Evolution and Restoration of the Well

The Surrounding Landscape and Historical Context

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Conservation and Access Today

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lumb Viaduct

Peel Tower

Robert Peel Statue

Sussex Avenue

Wayoh Reservoir

Tonge Hall

Heaton Park Temple

Heaton Park Papal Monument

Manchester Old Town Hall Colonnade

Rivington Pike Tower

Rivington Pike

Lowry Footbridge

Robert Owen Statue

The Undamaged Red Post Box

Murrays' Mill

Unmissable attractions to see

The Whitaker

Eagle & Child Inn

Healey Dell Fairies Chapel

Holden Wood Antiques Ltd

Bury Transport Museum

East Lancashire Railway

Singing Ringing Tree

Turton Tower

Jumbles Country Park

Rochdale Canal

Towneley Hall

Radcliffe Tower

Charter Walk Shopping Centre

Hall i' th' Wood Museum

Uniquely Manchester Ltd

Essential places to dine

Restaurant Metamorphica

Crowded House Restaurant

Northern Crafthouse

Bertram's Restaurant

The Cellar Restaurant

Artisan Ribble Valley

Northcote Hotel & Restaurant

The Bonny Inn

Nick's Restaurant

The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle

Vermilion

Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Manchester

Cosy Club

Trof Northern Quarter

TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Quirky Gifts

Crissys Gifts For All Occasions

Witches Galore

Salford Shopping Centre

Annea Veleta

GRACIOUS APPARELS

Crown HQ

HighMidLows

Hoot

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