Arnside & Silverdale National Landscape – Limestone Coast, Woodlands, and Tidal Estuaries

A Compact Limestone Landscape Shaped by Geology, Woodland, and Tides

Arnside & Silverdale National Landscape lies on the northern edge of Morecambe Bay, straddling the boundary between Cumbria and Lancashire in North West England. Though compact in size, it is one of England’s most distinctive walking landscapes, shaped by limestone geology, intertidal coastline, low wooded hills, and a remarkable concentration of wildlife-rich habitats.

Walking here is defined by variety within a small area. Limestone pavements, saltmarsh, woodland trails, and elevated viewpoints sit close together, allowing walkers to combine short, rewarding routes with longer days linking coast and countryside. The landscape feels intimate and calm, offering a quieter alternative to the neighbouring Lake District National Park while retaining a strong sense of place.

Trails wind through ancient woodland, across open limestone grassland, and along the bay’s ever-changing shoreline. Routes around Arnside Knott, Eaves Wood, and Warton Crag provide elevated walking with wide views across Morecambe Bay, while low-level paths connect villages, nature reserves, and coastal edges shaped by tide and light. Dry-stone walls, mossy lanes, and small farms reinforce the area’s timeless rural character.

Beyond walking, Arnside & Silverdale is especially well suited to nature-focused outdoor adventures. The landscape supports exceptional birdlife and flora, with wetlands, reedbeds, and limestone habitats creating one of the richest wildlife areas in north-west England. Cycling is gentle and exploratory rather than demanding, favouring quiet lanes and short linking routes between villages and viewpoints.

Accommodation is found in small villages and settlements across the landscape, from traditional inns and guesthouses to independent B&Bs and countryside stays. Bases such as Arnside, Silverdale, Warton, and Yealand offer easy access to walking routes, coastal paths, and nature reserves without the need for long transfers.

For walkers seeking calm scenery, wildlife-rich routes, and coastal countryside at a slower pace, Arnside & Silverdale National Landscape offers a rewarding and understated walking destination.

Where to Walk and Explore

Arnside Knott

A classic viewpoint walk rising above the village of Arnside, offering wide views across Morecambe Bay, the Kent Estuary, and towards the Lake District fells.

Silverdale & Eaves Wood

Woodland paths and limestone pavements weave through one of the area’s most botanically rich walking zones, particularly beautiful in spring and early summer.

Warton Crag

An elevated limestone hill with open grassland, woodland edges, and expansive views across the bay and surrounding countryside.

Morecambe Bay Coastal Paths

Low-level walking along tidal edges and saltmarsh margins, best explored with local knowledge and an awareness of tide times.

Leighton Moss & Surroundings

Gentle walking routes around wetlands and reedbeds, linking nature reserves with quiet countryside paths.

Adventure Highlights

• Limestone pavements, coastal grassland, and ancient woodland walking
• Elevated viewpoints over Morecambe Bay and the Kent Estuary
• Exceptional birdlife and wildlife-rich habitats
• Quiet village-to-village walking routes
• Gentle cycling on peaceful rural lanes
• A calm, uncrowded alternative to the Lake District