Bring the Beach to Your Lake’s Holiday
The Lake District, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and tranquil lakes, is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Millions visit the area each year from all over the world.
You might think that it lacks the coastal charm and sandy beaches that make traditional beach vacations so appealing, especially for kids. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Just a short jaunt from lakes like Windermere and Coniston, some amazing beaches are well worth a visit including St Bees and Haverigg.
Beaches in the Lake District
Head to the West, towards the Irish Sea and there are plenty of places, from sandy beaches to isolated coves where you can wile away an afternoon or two or take a plunge in the chilly waters.
St Bees Beach
St Bees Beach is a captivating coastal haven and popular with tourists and locals alike. Its golden sands stretch out beneath towering cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Irish Sea. With its tranquil atmosphere, rugged beauty, and opportunities for coastal walks, this is a true gem and well worth a visit.
Haverigg Beach
This is a long, sandy beach at the mouth of the Duddon Estuary that offers spectacular views of the Cumbrian mountains in the distance. It is a popular spot for walking, birdwatching, and fishing and the locals are quite friendly too. While the breeze can be quite bracing it’s the perfect place for a stroll any time of year.
Seascale Beach
This is a wide, sandy beach with a traditional promenade and a quaint wooden pier and you can even see the Isle of Man in the distance on a good day. It is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports so expect quite a few people during the hotter summer days. Like most beaches along the coast, it’s also dog friendly.
Silecroft Beach
This is a large beach backed with dunes and marshland and the impressive slopes of Black Combe Fell in the distance. You can almost feel yourself transported into another time altogether if there are not many people around. If you love wildlife, it’s perfect for spotting oystercatchers and gannets and even the odd natterjack toad.
Bardsea Beach
The shingle and sand beach is close to Morecambe Bay and there are a few coastal paths that are excellent for walks. Again, there’s no restriction on dogs but you can find the area more than a little blustery, especially during the autumn and winter months. If you’re looking for a less crowded beach, however, it’s a great option.
Beach Activities in the Lake District
Apart from sunbathing and swimming, there are several activities you can enjoy at the beach. From building sandcastles with the kids, having a picnic by the water, or simply taking a stroll along the shore, it’s a great way to spend the day. If you’re more energetic, St Bees is quite a popular place for surfing.
Some beaches are busier than others but there are no better locations on a hot summer’s day to take the whole family.
