Jack Scout, Arnside & Silverdale (AONB), Cumbria - © National Trust
Arnside & Silverdale – Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is located in the English counties of Cumbria and Lancashire in the north of England. Designated a AONB back in 1972, it is one of the smallest AONB covering 29 square miles around the River Keer, Kent Estuary and up to the A6 road. The area is known for its silver and green landscapes, small limestone hills, valleys, woodlands, agricultural land and offers visitors some inspiring views over the Kent Estuary to the Lake District.
The area is a popular one for day visitors, caravanning and outdoor enthusiasts, visitors can enjoy walking, cycling and horse riding in the scenic landscape.
Attractions
Arnside & Silverdale AONB is a compact area located on the Lancashire and Cumbria border offering visitors some great natural scenery and a place to enjoy the great outdoors. The area is noted for its limestone landscape and special qualities relating to the areas landscape and scenery and its wildlife and cultural heritage.
The area has a rich history and cultural heritage and there are historic forts, settlements, medieval tower houses and industrial history.
The main settlements within the AONB are the villages of Arnside and Silverdale; the other main settlements in the vicinity are Beetham, Storth, Warton and Yealand Redmayne. Local accommodation includes a mix of hotels, cosy B & B’s, Guest Houses, Self Catering houses and cottages and camping and caravan facilities.
Visitor attractions in the area include Leighton Hall and the Hawk Garden, Leighton House is an impressive Grade II listed building dating back to the 18th century. Inside the house guided tours are available for visitors to explore and learn more about the fascinating house, notable rooms include the Dining Room noted for its large panelling, the impressive Drawing Room that offers some splendid views of the Lakeland Mountains and the Music Room noted for its Steinway piano. The Hawk Garden is where visitors can see demonstrations of birds of prey flying the rolling parkland, visitors will learn about various species, their habitats and characteristics.
The RSPB Leighton Moss is located in the area, the nature reserve is home to a number of special birds including Bittern, Marsh harrier and Water rail. Each season brings a new experience with different birds on show at different times of the year. Visitors can explore the sensory garden, trails and enjoy tea and snacks in the tea room. The facility hosts a number of events throughout the year.
The Carnforth Station Heritage Centre has been restored to its former 1940s glory; there are a number of exhibitions for visitors to see , highlights include the Albert Halton Room that looks at Carnforth’s contribution during World War I and World War II. The heritage centre hosts exhibitions, events and activities on a regular basis.
Leisure and Sporting Activities include the Silverdale Golf Club, that includes a 18 hole golf course for golf aficionados; visitors can enjoy a number of relaxing walks in the scenic countryside along with cycling trails and horse riding opportunities. The scenic landscape and environment takes the area ideal to enjoy outdoor pursuits.
Visitors can enjoy a trip to the Arnside & Silverdale AONB; there is plenty to see, do and experience in the compact area; the area showcases many of the finest characteristics of the English countryside.
How to Get There
Arnside & Silverdale is accessible by both car and public transport.
By Car:
Silverdale is approx 255 miles from London, take the A502, then the A406 North Circular up to junction 1of the M1, take the M1 up to the junction with the M6, take the M6 up to junction 35 and then take the A601(M), then the A6 turn on to Nineteen Acre Lane. At the end of Nineteen Acre Lane take a right turn on to Silverdale Road then turn on to Thrang Brow Lane then Slackwood Lane then Stankelt Road that goes to Silverdale. The approx journey time is 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours depending on time of day and traffic conditions.
By Train:
The train stations at Silverdale and Arnside both give good access to the AONB, there are regular train services from London Euston to Lancaster and from Lancaster there are services to Silverdale and Arnside stations. The journey time is approx 3 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes.
By Bus/Coach:
There are regular buses available from London Victoria Coach station to Lancaster, the journey time is approx 6 hours 45 minutes to 7 hours 45 minutes depending on time of day and traffic, services are provided by services are provided by National Express. From Lancaster there are bus services available to Silverdale, services are provided by Stagecoachbus
Contact Details
Arnside and Silverdale AONB
The Old Station Building
Arnside
Carnforth
Lancashire
LA5 0HG
Telephone: +44 (0)1524 761034
Fax: +44 (0)1524 761577
email: info@arnsidesilverdaleaonb.org.uk
Website: Arnside & Silverdale AONB
Map
View Larger Map
For Local Search and Directions see: Arnside & Silverdale (AONB) Map
Tips & Other Considerations
The weather and climate can be unpredictable, there can be elements of all four seasons in one day. Ensure you check the weather forecast before you travel and have the correct clothing and footwear including comfortable walking shoes, fleece, raincoat and umbrella.
Follow travel advice and remain alert, vigilant and aware of your belongings at all times especially your wallet/purse and valuables and ensure they are hidden away from public view. If you have a bag try to use a shoulder bag with a good quality, strong strap, that is put across your shoulder not on your shoulder making it more difficult for anyone to take your bag.
If you are travelling by car to Arnside & Silverdale ensure you are well prepared with maps and Sat Nav to aid your journey, particularly if you are not familiar with the local area and roads. Use the journey planner for door to door directions. Check traffic updates before you travel.
If you are looking for car parking in and around the AONB, ensure you fully understand the rules, regulations & charges for car parks and street parking. The rules & regulations can be complex & confusing if you are unclear, it is wise not to park there.
If you are travelling by public transport, check for service updates prior to beginning your journey for any delays, disruption or cancellations to services that may impact on your journey. Ensure you have the service timetables for the trains, trams, buses and coaches. Remember when the last services are and ensure you make it to the train/bus/coach stops well in time to avoid missing the service.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
