
Waugh's Well
A serene moorland spot commemorating poet Edwin Waugh, offering stunning views and peaceful walks above Scout Moor Reservoir.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, pleasant temps

Waugh's Well
Best Time
Clear skies, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene moorland spot commemorating poet Edwin Waugh, offering stunning views and peaceful walks above Scout Moor Reservoir.
"Beautiful walk over the hills and fields, with the wild life and nothing but the sounds of the birds and the wind turbines."

🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Moorland can be wet and muddy, especially off-path. Waterproof boots are recommended!
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Limited facilities, so bring your own food and drinks. Enjoy the views!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waugh's Well Memorial
Near Fo Edge Farm
A commemorative well honoring poet Edwin Waugh, offering a quiet spot for reflection.

Scout Moor Reservoir Views
Overlooking the reservoir
Breathtaking panoramic views towards Holcombe Moor and the surrounding valleys.

Moorland Walking Trails
Surrounding moors
Explore miles of varied terrain, from concrete tracks to wild peat moorland.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Moorland Adventure
A Poet's Peaceful Retreat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Moorland can be wet and muddy, especially off-path. Waterproof boots are recommended!
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Limited facilities, so bring your own food and drinks. Enjoy the views!
🚗 Free Parking Available
Park on Edenfield Road near Owd Betts pub (OL12 7TY).
🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks
A great spot for walking your dog, but keep them on a lead in sensitive areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Moorland can be wet and muddy, especially off-path. Waterproof boots are recommended!
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Limited facilities, so bring your own food and drinks. Enjoy the views!
🚗 Free Parking Available
Park on Edenfield Road near Owd Betts pub (OL12 7TY).
🐶 Dog-Friendly Walks
A great spot for walking your dog, but keep them on a lead in sensitive areas.
🌬️ Wind Turbines
Enjoy the unique sight and sound of wind turbines as part of the landscape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Waugh's Well for its beautiful, off-the-beaten-track moorland setting, offering peace, wildlife, and stunning views. It's ideal for picnics and hikes, though some note that parts of the well's memorial have been damaged. The terrain can be muddy, requiring appropriate footwear.
"Beautiful walk over the hills and fields, with the wild life and nothing but the sounds of the birds and the wind turbines. Off the beaten track, not busy at all, mostly concrete and Stone track so not muddy and fairly easy under foot."
Stacey Staton
"A great little spot to stop for pot noodles cooked on our camping stoves during our 6.5 mile hike. Great views from up on the moors and you could be in the middle no where"
Stefan
"Lovely little spot to stop and rest with stunning scenery towards Haslingden and Rawtenstall overlooking Scout Moor Reservoir. Sadly on this visit, part of the front of the well of Edwin Waugh's head memorial is missing - maybe stolen or vandalised."
Westedk Productions
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Waugh's Well is located on the moors above Edenfield. Free parking is available on Edenfield Road, near the Owd Betts pub (postcode: OL12 7TY). From the parking area, follow the footpaths directly up and around the moors.
Public transport options are limited for direct access to Waugh's Well. It's best reached by car. Check local bus routes for services to Edenfield or Rawtenstall and be prepared for a significant walk from there.
The recommended parking area near Waugh's Well is on Edenfield Road, close to Owd Betts pub, with the postcode OL12 7TY.
While you can drive to the general vicinity via Edenfield Road, the well itself is accessed by footpaths from the parking area. The terrain is moorland, so driving directly to the well is not possible.
Road closures are uncommon for this remote area, but it's always wise to check local traffic updates before your journey, especially during adverse weather conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Waugh's Well is a natural landmark and walking area, so there is no entrance fee. Access is free for all visitors.
Waugh's Well is an outdoor natural attraction, so it is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no need to book tickets or make reservations to visit Waugh's Well. It's a public access area for walking and enjoying the scenery.
The main consideration is respecting the natural environment. Stick to marked paths where possible to avoid damaging the peat moorland and be mindful of livestock if present.
No, there is no visitor center at Waugh's Well. It is a natural, undeveloped site. Information about Edwin Waugh can be found in local heritage centers or online.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Waugh's Well is primarily a destination for walking, enjoying scenic views, and reflecting on the local poet Edwin Waugh. You can have a picnic, take photos, and explore the moorland trails.
Trails vary from concrete and stone tracks to natural peat moorland. Some paths can be muddy and wet, especially in autumn and winter.
There are no facilities such as restrooms or cafes directly at Waugh's Well. The nearest amenities would be at the Owd Betts pub or in nearby towns like Edenfield or Rawtenstall.
The terrain is moorland, featuring a mix of concrete paths, stone tracks, and natural peat. It can be uneven and boggy in places, particularly after rain.
Yes, children can enjoy Waugh's Well, especially if they like exploring outdoors. Ensure they wear appropriate footwear and are supervised, as the terrain can be challenging.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the panoramic views of Scout Moor Reservoir and Holcombe Moor, the unique landscape with wind turbines, and the commemorative well itself. The changing light on the moors offers great photographic potential.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for landscape photography, with golden hues casting over the moors. Midday can be harsh, but still offers clear views.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive moorland vistas.
No specific photography restrictions are in place, but always be respectful of the natural environment and any other visitors.
While sunny days offer clear views, dramatic skies with clouds can add a lot of character to your landscape photos. Be prepared for changeable weather.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a fantastic place for kids to burn off energy while enjoying scenic views. The open space allows for freedom to roam (under supervision), and the historical aspect of the well can spark curiosity about local poets and history. Consider a picnic to make the outing even more enjoyable.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will appreciate the open skies, the sounds of wildlife, and the unique moorland flora. It's a place to disconnect from the urban bustle and immerse yourself in a wilder landscape. Remember to check weather conditions and be prepared for changeable moorland weather.
📸 Photographers
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas. Be prepared for all types of weather, as dramatic skies can enhance your photographs. The well itself, though simple, can be a focal point in a composition.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Edwin Waugh
He spent time writing at Fo Edge Farm, the location where Waugh's Well was constructed in 1866 to commemorate him. Although the original farm building no longer stands, the well serves as a lasting tribute to his literary contributions. Visitors can appreciate the well as a point of historical interest amidst the natural beauty that inspired the poet.
While the well itself is a focal point, the surrounding moors are intrinsically linked to Waugh's inspiration. The landscape he observed and wrote about is still largely preserved, offering a tangible connection to his life and work. It's a place where you can literally walk in the footsteps of a beloved local literary figure.
Exploring the Moorland Terrain
It's crucial for visitors to wear appropriate footwear. Sturdy, waterproof walking boots are highly recommended to navigate the varied conditions comfortably and safely. Deviating too far off the established paths in the peat areas can lead to getting stuck or experiencing very wet conditions.
The moors provide a sense of remoteness and tranquility, punctuated by the presence of wind turbines. The sounds of nature, birdsong, and the wind are often the only companions. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful escape and a connection with the natural environment.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit