Those seeking coastal walks in the North-west of England will find many excellent opportunities. A wide range of options are available suited to walkers with different mobility and stamina, but all offer impressive scenery and fresh sea air.
Whether you’re looking for smooth surfaces for an easy stroll with urban amenities or have a desire to get off the beaten track and enjoy the area’s unrivalled natural landscape, you’re sure to find a route that is perfect for your purposes.
In this blog, we’ll offer up some inspiration for walkers looking to cover some distance this summer with four coastal walks that are well worth considering. Read on to find out which one is right for you.
Cark and Flookburgh
This enchanting walk takes in Morecambe Bay’s marshy northern shore and follows a portion of the Cumbria Coastal Way that links Morecambe Bay to the Solway Firth. Offering an atmospheric experience, this part of old Lancashire has earned a reputation for its delicious shrimps – however, Flookburgh takes its name from the species of flat fish that were once netted in the bay as catch of the day.
Numerous sights can be seen on the three-hour journey from shoreside farms like Canon Winder and the misty Lakeland hills immortalised by painter John Barrow, whose monument stands proudly near Ulverston on Hoad Hill. From limitless sands to thickets of gorse bushes, the natural beauty of north-western England can be found along the route, but activities are also abundant, thrill seekers can participate in a parachute at Cark Airfield, while those seeking a slower pace and nourishment can enjoy potted shrimp in butter at gourmet restaurants in Morecambe Bay.
Silverdale and Jenny Brown’s Point
Well-known for being among Lancashire’s most beautiful coastal regions, Silverdale is a much-beloved location for walks. Home to the Leighton Moss RSPB Nature Reserve, it is a lush part of the country where craggy limestone has been reclaimed by trees and vegetation. The walk starts at an ornithologist site known as the Eric Morecambe Hide, named for the famous comedian and avid bird watcher.
It offers a range of terrain from the sandy beach and rocky shores to salt marsh grass kept naturally cropped by resident sheep. Sights to see include picturesque Silverdale village, the National Trust Wood Well Cliff, Jenny Brown’s Point and stunning views across the Kent Estuary and Morecambe Bay.
Sunderland Point
This hidden gem of a walk plays host to great views across the River Lune and Morecambe Bay and is filled with changing tides, coastal birds and quaint cottages to spectate along the way.
Sunderland is a village located not far from Heysham and Lancaster and adventuring to the Point is the perfect place for a peaceful stroll. Not only will you enjoy the spectacular coastal views, but you’ll also be exposed to some of the local wildlife. If you’re an avid bird-spotter, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for Curlews, Herons and Peewits to name a few.
Whilst you’re exploring everything Sunderland Point has to offer, a visit to Sambo’s grave is a must. It’s a memorial for a young slave named Sambo who was brought to the North West in the 18th century. Locals decorate the grave with flowers and painted stones making it a popular stopping point for walkers on this route.
Warton and Warton Sands
If you’re planning a trip to the area of Warton, you’re sure to be surrounded by a whole host of coastal walks . Gaze upon the mesmerising Warton Sands whilst you explore everything the area of Warton has to offer.
Warton Village has strong American connections as it was believed George Washington lived here for some time with his family. St Oswald’s church nestled in the village was presumably the place where the Stars and Stripes flag was evolved due to the Washington coat of arms decorating its walls. Each year, Warton village flies the American flag every 4th July in celebration of its American history.
Famous for its limestone hills, Warton Crag is home to a wide diversity of wildlife and plants. It’s located on the southern edge of Arnside & Silverdale and offers spectacular views of Morecambe Bay and the Lake District. The majority of the site is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Local Nature Reserve (LNR) making it a real hit with local walkers.Our perfectly located Keer Cottage at our Marsh House park, is the ideal starting point to exploring the area of Warton. Take a closer look at what this luxurious cottage has to offer and book your stay with us today.
Browse for a base for coastal walks
At Holgates Cottage Collection we have assembled a select array of family-run self-catering cottages that are ideal for holidaying in coastal villages like Arnside and Silverdale and exploring North Lancashire and Cumbria.
Offering different levels of luxury to suit your needs, we have an extensive choice of pet-friendly properties that can sleep up to six guests in unrivalled comfort. Get in touch with us now to find your ideal HQ for coastal walks in the North West and start planning your next big adventure on foot.
