Arnside and Silverdale

We highly recommend visiting Arnside and Silverdale during your stay at Moss Wood Caravan Park. This designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is situated in between the Lake District and Morecambe Bay and is famed for its stunning landscapes and abundance of flora, fauna and wildlife. It’s far less crowded than the National Park, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the peace and tranquillity at a slower pace. There’s plenty of points of interest and natural landmarks to check out.

Spend a day exploring the countryside or discover hidden gems along the rugged coast. Stop for a delicious meal in one of the friendly pubs and restaurants, or pick up some fish and chips to enjoy whilst taking in the sea views. However, you decide to spend your time in Arnside and Silverdale, we’re sure you’ll make happy memories to cherish for years to come. Here we share some of the top things to do in the area, to help you plan your day trip from our Lancashire caravan and holiday home park.

Photo credit: Stephen Gidley, Flickr

Things to do in Arnside and Silverdale

Walking

There’s an extensive network of way-marked trails in Arnside and Silverdale for those wanting to explore the area by foot. You’ll find routes for all abilities, whether you’re an avid hiker or prefer a leisurely afternoon stroll.

One of our personal favourites is the walk-up Arnside Knott, a small hill in the centre of the AONB. It’s relatively easy and can be incorporated into a longer circular walk that usually takes around 2 hours to complete. Walkers will be rewarded with far-reaching views of the surrounding countryside from the trig point at the top.

Cycling

If you fancy getting out on your bike during your visit, you’ll be spoilt for choice when deciding where to go. There’s an excellent selection of cycle paths within the Area of Outstanding Beauty and it’s relatively flat, which only adds to its appeal! The Bay Cycle Way passes through if you’re up for a challenge! The 80-mile route extends from Barrow in Furness to Glasson Dock and can be completed in one go as a series of shorter rides.

Wildlife watching

Arnside and Silverdale is made up of a variety of habitats, including ancient woodlands, orchards, meadows, coastline and cliffs. The area is a haven for wildlife and the ideal setting for rare insects, plants and flowers. Many of the species that inhabit the area are declining elsewhere in the country, but thrive in Lancashire thanks to careful management and conservation. It’s a wonderful place to reconnect with nature and spend some well-earned time in the great outdoors.

Butterflies are plentiful in the spring and summer with 35 species recorded within the bounds of the AONB. There’s a variety of breeding birds in the reeds and tidal flats as well as migrating species from far flung destinations across the world. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars or scope – you never know what you might find! You could even join one of the guided walks with a friendly volunteer who will help find and identify anything you see.

There are a number of nature reserves to discover during a wildlife watching holiday in Lancashire. We recommend visiting Arnside Knott, Eaves Wood, Fell End, Walton Crag and RSPB Leighton moss.

Historic villages

There are plenty of quaint villages to explore within the bounds of the AONB. The streets are lined with picturesque cottages and independent shops to peruse.

• Arnside – picturesque coastal village with a Victorian parade of shops and stunning views over the estuary. One of the best places in the North West to enjoy a sunset and views over Morecambe Bay.
• Silverdale – a small village with pretty surroundings and attractive white-washed cottages. The village has a number of amenities including a convenience store, church, post office and pubs. It is flanked by the coast on one side and countryside on the other. An excellent starting point for scenic coastal walks.
• Yealand Redmayne – a small village with a rich and varied history dating back to the early 13th century. It is situated just a short drive from Leighton Hall – a historic country home boasting stunning gardens, impressive architecture, antiquities and a host of events throughout the year.
• Warton – a peaceful village close to Kendal canal. From here you can visit Warton Crag nature reserve.
• Beetham – a historic village within touching distance of the Lake District. It is home to St Michaels Church and the working Heron Corn Mill. Adventurous visitors should head to Beetham Fell and the picturesque fairy steps. The stone steps steeped in myth and legend and are said to bring good luck to anyone that walks up them without holding on!

Food and drink

If you’re feeling peckish after a busy day exploring, pop into one of the excellent pubs, cafes or restaurants nearby. There’s a wide selection to choose from including The Albion, Ye Old Fighting Cocks and Posh Sardine, where you’re guaranteed a warm welcome and delicious homemade fare.

Many of the eateries are set in scenic locations, allowing you to sample a pint of local ale and watch the world go by! There’s also a selection of takeaways options, if you’d prefer to pick up your favourite dinner to enjoy out and about while soaking up the views.

Top places to eat in Arnside and Silverdale

• The Albion – traditional pub in Arnside with award-winning food and drink. Serve hearty classics, light bites and salads. Set in a waterfront location on the banks of the Kent Estuary.
• Ye Old Fighting Cocks – waterfront pub with views over the estuary. Welcoming atmosphere and excellent selection of local ales. Delicious menu of home cooked meals and chefs’ specials. Traditional roast served every Sunday.
• Posh Sardine – vintage tearoom on the promenade at Arnside. Serve tasty cakes and hand made sweet treats. Excellent tea and coffee and afternoon tea boxes to takeaway.
• The Old Bakehouse Arnside – tuck into a delicious pie or pastry during your trip to Arnside and Silverdale. The Old Bakehouse make everything in house using quality ingredients.

Events

Arnside and Silverdale plays host to a number of events through the year. The team of dedicated volunteers offer guided walks, litter picks and workshops, which include charcoal making, spoon carving and coppicing.

Getting to Arnside and Silverdale

It takes approximately 40 minutes to drive Arnside and Silverdale from Moss Wood Caravan Park. The route is extremely straight forward and follows the M6 for most of the way.

If you’d prefer to leave the car at home and travel by public transport, a reliable and regular bus service is available from Lancaster with Stagecoach. It’s also possible to travel by train.