Barrow Monument

The Barrow Monument is a seamark and memorial dedicated to Sir John Barrow, constructed in 1850 and designed by Andrew Trimen. This structure is made of limestone ashlar sourced from Birkrigg Quarry and is over 30 meters high, resembling a lighthouse, situated at the summit of Hoad Hill. The monument features a projecting plain cornice above which sits a lantern with round-arched openings, topped by a cornice and an ashlar dome. The shaft contains narrow slit openings that provide light to the stairway. The entrance doorway is located on the west side, with a lintel inscribed: 'IN HONOUR OF SIR JOHN BARROW, BART. ERECTED A.D. 1850.' Above this inscription is a panel carved with his shield and crest.

The interior, which has not been inspected, is said to have originally included a circular apartment on the ground floor, featuring a marble bust over the doorway, Portland stone sculptures on the walls, a plate engraved with the names of subscribers, and an inscription around the domed roof. The lantern is reportedly accessible via a flight of limestone steps with an iron balustrade, and it has pilasters engraved with the names of notable Arctic voyagers.

Historically, Sir John Barrow was born in 1764 at Dragley Beck Cottage. He traveled to China and South Africa, became Secretary to the Admiralty in 1804, promoted Arctic expeditions, and passed away in 1848 at the age of 85.