Where tidal estuaries meet wooded hills, and walkers follow quiet paths through one of England’s most distinctive small-scale landscapes.
The Arnside & Silverdale National Landscape (AONB) — straddling the Lancashire–Cumbria border — is a compact yet richly varied area of coastal beauty. Covering around 75 square kilometres, it’s defined by limestone hills, flower-rich meadows, and the vast tidal sweep of Morecambe Bay. The area’s blend of shoreline, woodland, and open pasture offers some of the most peaceful and rewarding walking holidays and outdoor adventures in North West England.
This is a place where the pace is naturally slow. Trails lead from shoreline paths to high viewpoints like Arnside Knott, and from nature reserves such as Leighton Moss to villages with traditional pubs and independent shops. Whether you’re here for a weekend walking break or exploring as part of a longer self-guided holiday, the variety of scenery packed into this small National Landscape is remarkable.
A long-distance route skirting Morecambe Bay and passing through Arnside, with sweeping sea views and abundant birdlife.
An easy, scenic path that skirts the area, ideal for relaxed walking or cycling with views over farmland and limestone hills.
Short routes from villages such as Arnside, Silverdale, and Beetham, including the climb to Arnside Knott and woodland loops in Eaves Wood.
The Cumbria Coastal Way runs along the shoreline, offering sea views and links to other trails in the North West.
Yes — Arnside, Silverdale, and Beetham all have waymarked loops through woodland, hills, and coast.
Absolutely. Leighton Moss is famous for marsh harriers and bitterns, while the bay attracts waders and wildfowl year-round.
Both Arnside and Silverdale have railway stations with direct services from Lancaster and Barrow-in-Furness.
Spring and summer bring wildflowers and active birdlife; autumn offers colour in the woods; winter provides quiet, atmospheric walks.
