ARNSIDE

Arnside village is a former fishing port located on the estuary where the River Kent enters Morecambe Bay. 

Arnside has retained many of its original features, with the pier and port areas providing stunning views out and across the bay. 

The village was a small hamlet of only a few fishermen’s cottages, inns and farms until around 1845. 

Today, a range of shops line Arnside promenade and there are further views across the estuary towards Grange-over-Sands and the Lakeland Peaks. 

The surrounding landscape is home to a wealth of wildlife including many species of bird. The National Trust-protected Arnside Knott is of national importance for wildlife, including several species of butterflies, wood ants and rare types of wildflowers during the spring and summer months. Alongside neighboring village Silverdale, Arnside is an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

The Knott is covered with limestone grassland and mixed woodland and has several wooded walks. It is another vantage point for spectators wanting to take in the sights; from the top you can see across the peaks of the Yorkshire Dales and the Lakeland Fells. 

As well as its own railway station, Arnside is home to the Victorian Church of St James.

Things to do in Arnside…

Six Walks to do from Arnside…

Best Wild Swim Spots in Arnside

What makes Arnside famous?

Hidden Gems to find in Arnside

Things to do in Arnside on a rainy day…

Top Family Friendly things to do in Arnside

Exploring Arnside with dogs

The best places to eat and drink in Arnside

Shopping local in Arnside

When is the best time to visit Arnside?

Where to park in Arnside

Exercising in Arnside

 Things to do in Arnside

Arnside is a former fishing port and holiday resort on the estuary where the River Kent enters Morecambe Bay. It is an unspoilt village retaining beautiful features from its past such as quaint streets, buildings and the pier. In 1972, Arnside & Silverdale where designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty status, attracting visitors to this beautiful part of the country.

• Arnside Tower

Standing on the outskirts of the town, Arnside Tower is unique example of a historic Cumbrian pele tower. The oldest building in the parish, the tower was built in the late 14th century and was a free standing tower, which would have been five storeys tall in its prime. Today, the tower is a ruin although the turret staircase is still largely intact.

• Leighton Hall

Less than 20 minutes away from Arnside, Leighton Hall is a medieval mansion home of the Gillow family, who still live there today. The ancestral home is rich with heritage displaying elegant rooms filled with the famous collection of Gillow furniture and Objects d’art. The house is free to explore and has no roped off sections. Once you’ve explored the house and the stunning chapel, head outside and discover spectacular views amongst the grounds, woodland and the 19th century Walled Garden. Birds of prey displays are also held here in the summer.

• Heron Corn Mill

Less than 15 minutes outside of Arnside, Heron Corn Mill is a Grade II listed 18th century working watermill set on the banks of the River Bela. The picturesque mill is one of the few working mills left in Cumbria. Evidence shows that a mill has existed on the site since 1096. The neighbouring barn at the mill has been re-developed and is now used as an educational and arts resource centre. Visitors to the mill can enjoy tours, workshops, craft activities and more.

• Arnside Beach Promenade

The coastal town has a small beach offering exceptional views over Morecambe Bay, with the hills and mountains of the Lake District in the background, and a picturesque viaduct crossing over the water. Arnside Beach is renowned for its stunning  sunsets and attracts visitors from near and far to watch the sun set over the bay. The best way to enjoy the beach is to walk along the Victorian promenade which is filled with shops, cafes, pubs and fish and chip shops. It is advisable to avoid the sand on the beach due dangerous quicksand and quick moving tides. Every few weeks, Arnside experiences a small tidal wave known as “The Bore”. An alarm will sound, and around 15 to 20 minutes later, the tide can be seen rapidly sweeping into the bay.

• Lakeland Wildlife Oasis

For a great family day out no matter what the weather, The Lakeland Wildlife Oasis centre is home to over 100 animals, birds, reptiles and insects and is situated on the edge of Arnside and Silverdale. You can wonder the zoo, admiring animals such as lemurs, snow leopards, meerkats, monkeys and much more. Get close to the animals by booking an animal experience, which even involves meeting the carnivores! After a busy day doting on the animals, have a bite to eat in the Wild Café.

 Six Walks to do from Arnside

Arnside is an unspoilt area of the Lake District offering an abundance of walks ranging from coastal hikes, woodland trails and hill days… 

• Arnside Knott Circular 

Distance: 7.64km Time: 3 hours Difficulty: Medium

The circular route from Arnside town to Arnside Knott is a stunning coastal walk with great views and a fish and chip reward at the end!  Starting from Arnside Seafront Car Park, the footpath passes the Albion Pub where you will begin to see signs for Arnside Knott. Follow the signpost up High Knott Road through Red Hills Wood. The woodland path becomes steep as it climbs uphill towards a wooden gate. Leave the woodland through the gate and continue on the path to Arnside Knott summit which marked with a trig point. A path from the trig point leads 520ft limestone rock, which neighbours Silverdale and is renowned for its wildlife. Return to Arnside seafront via a downhill climb through Hollins Farm and the shoreline footpath. Treat yourself to some tasty Fish and Chips at Arnside chip shop!

• Leighton Moss Walk 

Distance: 2.5km Time: 1 hour Difficulty: Easy

This route explores Leighton Moss nature reserve which boasts the largest reed bed in north-west England, making it home to a wide range of wildlife including otters, marsh harriers, egrets and red deer. Start the walk at the RSPB Visitor centre car park and head up the bridleway towards Moss. The first section is a bit steep but evens out quickly. There are information posts dotted along the footpath where you can stop and observe the wildlife. ‘The Hide’ provides clear views over one of the main lagoons. At the end of the causeway a pair of stone gates indicate the original entrance to agricultural fields. The walk begins to turn here and returns to the start. When you reach the car park, there is a RSPB centre with a café and shop to explore.

• Silverdale 

Distance: 8.8km Time: 3 hours Difficulty: Medium

Around 4 miles from Arnside, this route starts from Morecambe Hide in Silverdale and heads towards the famous Jenny Brown’s point. The coastal path follows the Lancashire Coastal Way exploring the pretty village of Silverdale exploring countryside paths, rocky shoreline and sandy beaches! Jenny Browns Point is a small headland is home to a mysterious chimney; a grade II listed structure, which is now thought to be the remains of a copper mining project from the 18th century.

• Pepperpot Walk 

Distance: 3.5km Time: 2 hours Difficulty: Easy

In the nearby village of Silverdale, this walk soaks in the atmosphere of Eaves Wood and its mossy limestone outcrops, distinctive trees and surrounding views from the highest point at Pepperpot. Follow signs through the woodland for Pepperpot; the path is waymarked halfway through and takes you through some old yew trees with remarkable roots. You reach a stone seat before the climb up to Pepperpot begins via a little, steep stone path. You will cross a section of limestone pavement before reaching the Queen Victoria Jubilee Monument at the top of the hill, also known as Pepperpot, providing amazing views over to Morecambe Bay and the surrounding countryside. You can return to Eaves Wood the way you came.

• Ashmeadow Woodland

This two hectares of woodland is typical of the semi-natural woodland found around the Morecambe Bay limestone area. The principal species you will find in the forest are Oak with Ash, Beech, Wild Cherry, a few Sycamore, Birch and Wych Elm. Groves of Yew trees are also a particular feature. Yew were also planted along the drive together with trees around the garden, and some are estimated to be over 300 years old. A walk through the woodland provides the opportunity to spot some amazing wildlife including Greater Spotted Woodpeckers, Nuthatchs and Tawny Owls. The woodland is also a haven for butterflies during spring and summer. Walks here can be as little or as long as you like, exploring the forest trails, walled garden and Crossfield Wood.

• Dallam Park 

Around 5 miles away from Arnside, this route begins at Beetham, a little hamlet on the eastern edge of the Arnside and Silverdale AONB. The route heads north towards Dallam Park and Milnthorpe from Heron Mill car park. The footpath explores woodland paths running alongside the River Bela, showcasing a range of tree species from beech to yew. Shortly, following signs for Dallam Park, you reach the woodland, which is a popular site for herds of fallow deer; you might spot them if you’re lucky. Dallam Tower also comes into sight as you continue through the park; the tower was built in 1722 and is a remarkable piece of history. Explore the parks range of gardens featuring a natural rock garden, water garden and 19th century ornamental gardens. The park has 75 hectares of land to explore, so see as much or little as you like!

 Best Wild Swim Spots in Arnside

Arnside is less than an hour away from some of the best wild swim spots in Lakeland, from coastal dips to wide open lake swims…

• Coniston Water

Less than an hour away from Arnside, Coniston Water sits below the craggy tops of the Old Man of Coniston, providing an impressive swim spot with a mountain backdrop. Coniston Water is a stunning five-mile long lake with plenty of space for a scenic open water swim amongst fell-sides and forests. There are a number of access points and jetties along the pebbled shoreline making this an easily accessible lake for a dip. Peel Island sits on the water around 100m away and is a great destination to head for and explore. Coniston Water is a popular spot for boat trips and water sports so make sure you keep an eye out and don’t get to close to the Coniston Launch or Steam Yacht. Wearing a colourful tow float is advisable on busy lakes.

•  Windermere Lake

The longest natural lake in England, Windermere has plenty of space to enjoy a large, open water swim. The lake has many access points and jetties along it’s shores with the closest to Arnside being Lakeside around 30 minutes drive from the village. The ribbon lake has 19 islands you can take a swim too, although Belle Island is private. It is advisable to stick to the west bank of the lake when swimming to avoid the boats, which are usually busy on the east side. Swimming with a colourful tow float is advisable in Windermere due to the amount of boat activity on the lake. The lake is also accessible from Fell Foot Park, with open water swimming group SleekerSwim operating from Fell Foot providing swimming techniques and open water courses since 2005.

• Bardsea Beach

Bardsea Beach is a wide expanse of shingle and sand beach overlooking Morecambe Bay. The coast road between Ulverston and Barrow-in-Furness runs alongside parts of the beach, making it easily accessible with plenty of free parking spots. The beach is quite exposed making it susceptible to cold, windy conditions and strong currents; so wild swimming is only recommended on calm days for advanced swimmers who are familiar with sea swimming.

 What makes Arnside famous?

Arnside is a small village yet has a lot of interesting features and history that draw visitors to the coastal resort… 

• Historic Buildings & Features 

• Arnside is home to one of the oldest buildings in Cumbria; Arnside Tower is a 14th century peel tower which is thought to have been built as a refuge against raids from Scots and the Border Reivers during the late medieval times. The tower is now in a ruined state and is a Grade II listed building. 

• Arnside Viaduct is a notable feature in the area and was built in 1857 and carries the Cumbrian Coast railway line over the River Kent. The viaduct was the first in the country to use water jets during construction of the footings for the piers. At the height of the First World War in 1915, the viaduct was rebuilt to it could carry heavy munitions trains to the front line. 

• Grubbins Wood is a section of rare, ancient British woodland in Arnside. Woodland has been present on this site since medieval times and throughout history, it has provided wood for local communities who have used its trees for fuel and shelter.

• Arnside Tidal Bore

Arnside coastline is renowned for its rare tidal phenomenon, the Arnside Tidal Bore. This natural wonder only occurs in a few locations across the world and is caused by the leading edge of the incoming tide being forced through a narrowing bay causing a wave against the direction of the bays current. The Lakeland District Council provide a siren to warn the public of the incoming tide so they can stay away from the shore. The siren sounds twice before daylight high tide, around 20 minutes before the tidal bore is due, and the second siren is sounded just as the bore reaches Blackstone Point.

• Arnside & Silverdale AONB status

In 1972, Arnside & Silverdale where designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty status. Covering 75 sq km, this area is one of the smallest of the AONB family. An AONB is a designed exceptional landscape with character and natural beauty that are precious enough to be safeguarded in the national interest. The Arnside & Silverdale area is filled with limestone pavements, ancient woodland, intimate meadows, rich wetlands, an impressive coastline and stunning views all round. The pasture and limestone outcrops provide a haven for rare wildlife including unique butterflies and wildflowers. With railway stations ar Arnside, Silverdale and Carnforth, visitors can easily reach the area and are drawn by its status and beauty.

Hidden gems to find in Arnside

Arnside is a little village brimming with nearby hidden gems and secret places to seek out…

• Gait Barrows and Hawes Water

Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve is set in the heart of the Arnside and Silver AONB and is a usual and interesting place. It is one of England’s most important limestone landscapes and is home to vital peat bogs and rare wildlife. Get lost in the reserve and seek out the little tarn of Hawes Water (not to be mistaken for Haweswater reservoir in Mardale), which is a beautiful place for a picnic. Ancient tales claim there was a giant serpent in the lake, which would slither out and devour local sheep. Explore the border of the water at your own risk!

• The Fairy Steps

For a little magical gem, head to the Fairy Steps above the nearby pretty village of Beetham. The narrow lime formation is associated with legends and tales claiming fairies will grant a wish to anyone who climbs the steps without touching the walls of the narrow gorge. Despite whether you see any magical fairies or not, this is a pretty, hidden place to explore.

• The Three Towers

Not to be mistaken for a new Lord of the Rings film, the Three Towers of Arnside and Silverdale consist of Arnside Tower, Beetham Hall and Hazelslack. The ancient remains are three of only four sites in Arnside and Silverdale AONB with substantial stone built remains of medieval buildings, the fourth being Warton Old Rectory. Spend the day finding the ancient remains, which all impressively stand around beautiful landscapes. 

 Things to do in Arnside on a rainy day…

The Lake District is renowned for its wet weather, with rainy days often being the norm! Although we encourage you not to let the rain put you off, here are some indoor attractions in and around Arnside for the days when heavy rain is really spoiling your outdoor plans…

• Heron Corn Mill

Heron Corn Mill is an 18th century Grade II listed water mill and now acts as a community hub of history and events. Mill tours and demonstrations take place on the last Friday of each month. Take shelter inside the mill and experience what it was like to be part of this ancient history. Other events to enjoy include Foodie Friday, craft days and workshops and bread making. 

• Lakeland Wildlife Oasis 

The tropical hall and butterfly house at the Lakeland Wildlife Oasis are ideal venues to seek shelter on those rainy days. The centre is home to over 100 animals, birds, reptiles and insects and is situated on the edge of Arnside and Silverdale. You can wonder the zoo admiring animals such as lemurs, snow leopards, meerkats, monkeys and much more. Get close to the animals by booking an animal experience, which even involves meeting the carnivores! After a busy day doting on the animals, have a bite to eat in the Wild Café. 

• Leighton Hall

Less than 20 minutes away from Arnside, Leighton Hall is a medieval mansion and home of the Gillow family, who still live there today. The ancestral home is rich with heritage displaying elegant rooms filled with the famous collection of Gillow furniture and Objects d’art. The house is free to explore and has no roped off sections. Escape the rain and live a day of luxury in this beautiful stately home.

 Top Family Friendly things to do in Arnside

The Lake District is a great place for families and children, and Arnside is no exception. From coast trips, to little hikes and garden visits, here are some of the best things to do in Arnside as a family…

• Camping

Arnside offers a small selection of nearby family friendly campsites with plenty of space for kids to enjoy ball games and a night under the stars…

• Hollins Farm Holiday Park

Situated at the foot of Arnside Knott, Hollins Farm Holiday Park is perfectly situated for a family day out at the beach, nearby countryside walks and watching the sunset. Set in a field ideal for motorhomes and classic tent camping, the site has plenty of room for energetic children to play alongside the resident wandering chickens and goats! The site is a 5 minute walk from the sister park Middlebarrow where you can make use of the bar and restaurant. The site is complete with a kids playground and games room!

• Newbarns Caravan Park 

Newbarns Caravan Park is set in a small wooded area around 200 yards from the beach and close by Arnside Knott. Caravans are available to rent and is an ideal spot for beach, woodland and countryside walks. You can walk into the Arnside village from the site to explore pubs and restaurants. The static homes sleep up 6 people, making them ideal for larger families. 

• Little Walks for Little Legs

Arnside is an ideal place to walk with kids; from park strolls to adventurous woodland trails, these routes have all you need to your little ones occupied and interested along the way! 

• Eaves Wood

Eaves Wood has a range of well-maintained woodland paths ideal for a family walks. Enjoy a little nature trail with your kids and see how much wildlife they can spot! The woods are home to a range of birds, deer and ancient yew trees. Stretch your little ones legs and head up to Pepperpot hill and enjoy views over Morecambe Bay. There are no facilities nearby, so remember to pack a picnic for the top!

• Jack Scout

Jack Scout is a fantastic spot offering great views with little effort.  The rocky headland is accessible via a short walk from the road near Silverdale. This hike is exciting for children and explores secluded paths between the bushes with hidden trails down to the pebble beach below. Children can beachcomb and rock-scramble here! Seek out the nearby Giants Seat for a sit down and picnic whilst soaking up the peaceful surroundings.

• Arnside Knott

Arnside Knott is a great little hill to introduce your kids to a hillwalking. The hill is covered in Limestone grassland and mixed woodland making this area a haven for wildlife including rare butterflies. From the top, you have enormous views across the peaks of the Lakeland fells and the Yorkshire Dales, down into Lancaster and across the sands of Morecambe Bay. Pack a picnic and some treats to reward your little ones with when they reach the top.

• Lakeland Wildlife Oasis

For a great family day out no matter what the weather, The Lakeland Wildlife Oasis centre is home to over 100 animals, birds, reptiles and insects and is situated on the edge of Arnside and Silverdale. You can wonder the zoo, admiring animals such as lemurs, snow leopards, meerkats, monkeys and much more. Get close to the animals by booking an animal experience, which even involves meeting the carnivores! After a busy day doting on the animals, have a bite to eat in the Wild Café.

 Exploring Arnside with dogs

We all love a holiday with our four legged friends, and the Lake District is an ideal place for a getaway with your dogs. Walkies galore, dog-friendly pubs and woodland adventures, Arnside is an ideal spot for a dog walkers holiday…

Please note when adventuring with your dog to be aware of livestock and keep your dogs on leads when passing.

• Dog friendly walks

Dogs love walking as much as we do and Arnside offers some spectacular walks that both owners and dogs will enjoy. From ancient woodland adventures and hill hikes, Arnside offers a mixture of walks from lowland, easy hikes for old or little dogs and more strenuous, uphill walks for young, energetic puppies.

• Arnside Knott

Arnside Knott is a great walk for energetic pups to let off some steam! The hill is around 159 metres high and offers beautiful views of Morecambe Bay, Silverdale and the southern Lake District. There are a variety of routes to reach the summit trigpoint, many of which explore woodland and open green-land where your dogs can explore off lead (if there are no nearby grazing animals).

• Ashmeadow Woodlands

This two hectares of woodland is typical of the semi-natural woodland found around the Morecambe Bay limestone area and offers endless opportunities for your dog to explore and chase sticks!  A walk through the woodland provides the opportunity to spot some amazing wildlife too, including Greater Spotted Woodpeckers, Nuthatchs and Tawny Owls. The woodland is a haven for butterflies during spring and summer; if your dog has a chilled out nature and is often still, one may land on their nose if you’re lucky! 

• Silverdale Beach

All dogs love a beach walk, and Silverdale beach offers a huge expanse of sandy shores for your four-legged friends to explore! The beach is dog-friendly and is a great place for a family day out watching your dog enjoy a paddle in the sea and roll in the sand! Silverdale is a remote beach however there a few cafes dotted around to treat your dog to an ice cream.

• Dog friendly accommodation

No one likes leaving their dog at home when they go away, so finding dog friendly accommodation is always a relief. Luckily, there are a few options in and around Arnside ranging from dog-friendly hotel rooms to self-catering cottages and lodges.

• The Albion Hotel

Sitting on the banks of the Kent estuary, The Albion Hotel is an old, dog-friendly pub dating back over 200 years. The pub offers to provide a dog bed, bowl and other goodies to make your pooch feel right at home. Small dogs weighing 15kg or less can stay the night with a small surcharge to cover cleaning costs.

• Underhill Cottage

This delightful cottage is nestled in the lovely coastal village of Arnside and is just a stone’s throw from the beach and the train station. This picture perfect cottage is the best spot to enjoy all that Arnside has to offer, with fabulous views of the sea, and nearby to all the village shops, pubs and restaurants. This is a great option for larger families, with the cottage sleeping up to 5 people and 1 dog. The cottage is near to woodland and coastal walks for dogs aswell as having an enclosed garden they can explore freely.

• Dog friendly pubs

After a long walk, a well-deserved pint and a doggy treat is always a must. Here in Arnside, there are only two small pubs, but luckily both of them welcome muddy boots and paw prints… 

• Ye Olde Fighting Cocks

Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, as the name suggests, is an old, historic hotel and pub overlooking the estuary in Arnside. The character filled pub is a friendly, dog welcoming place where you can enjoy a quality pint of real ale whilst your pooch drinks from their very own water bowl beside the warming fire!

• The Albion

Sitting on the banks of the Kent estuary, The Albion Hotel is an old, dog-friendly pub dating back over 200 years. You can enjoy a pint and bite to eat beside your dog in most areas of the pub or on the outdoor terrace. Ask behind the bar for a water bowl and treats!

 The best places to eat and drink in Arnside

Arnside is a coastal town offering traditional British classics such a seaside fish and chips and pub grub! There a few pubs, cafes and restaurants in and around the town to suit everyone’s tastes… 

• The Albion 

Open everyday 12pm-11pm, food is served 12pm-3pm then 4pm-7pm

The Albion is placed on the banks of the River Kent and has arguably one of the most stunning pub views in the country. Built as a private house in 1810, the building was originally owned by a mariner and ship trader before the coming of the railway hindered coastal trading and it was turned into a hotel and bar. There’s still a 200-year-old bell on the roof, which was once used to summon carriages in bad weather and warn of the incoming tide. The menu focuses on local specialties, such as salmon with local buttered samphire, potted Morecambe Bay shrimp, Lakeland lamb, Silverdale 28-day aged steak, Whitby scampi and Port of Lancaster smoked salmon.

• Ye Old Fighting Cocks

Open everyday 12pm-10pm, food is served Sunday-Thursday 12pm-8pm Friday and Saturday 12pm-8:30pm

Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, as the name suggests, is an old, historic hotel and pub overlooking the estuary in Arnside. The menu follows a Cumbrian pub classics theme serving local favourites such as Cumbrian Steak Burger, Steak and Ale Pie and Gammon Steak. The pub also makes the most of its seaside surroundings including a ‘From The Sea’ section in their menu frying up Beer Battered Fish and Chips,  Scampi, Seafood Chowder and Haddock. The pub is owned by Thwaites brewery and has a well stocked bar selling real ales, guest beers, draught lagers, cider, wines and spirits.

• Arnside Beach Hut 

Open everyday 10am-4pm

Set on the promenade, Arnside Beach Hut is a quirky little seaside café ideal for a bite to eat or sweet treat during a beach day or coastal walk. The pretty café serve hot drinks, daytime snacks such as sandwiches and paninis and delicious treats including ice cream, homemade cakes and donuts! 

• Arnside Fish and Chips and The Big Chip Café 

Open Tuesday & Wednesday 4:30pm-7pm, Thursday and Friday 12pm-2pm, then 4:30pm-7pm, Saturday 12pm-2pm then 7:30pm Sunday 12pm-2pm then 4pm-7pm 

A visit to the seaside is never complete with some traditional, British ‘fish ‘n’ chips’! Placed in a prime spot on the promenade overlooking the coast and the River Kent, Arnside Chip Shop and The Big Chip Café serve as a takeaway and eat in diner frying up locally caught Cod and Chips alongside other chip shop classics such as Haddock, sausage, pies, burgers and chicken.

• The Silverdale Hotel

Open 11am-11pm, food is served Tuesday-Saturday 12pm-3pm then 6pm-9pm. Sundays 12pm-4pm 

The Silverdale Hotel is a friendly, family run hotel, pub and restaurant offering classic, British pub grub in a relaxed, informal setting. Fill your bellies with great quality handmade pub food such as Hand Beer Battered Large Haddock with chunky skin on hand cut chips or homemade fish pies alongside an ever-changing daily specials board featuring fresh fish dishes, local game dishes and a Pie of The Day. Food is accompanied by an ever-changing bar of real ales, craft lagers and wine.

Shopping local in Arnside

Whether you’re staying in self-catering accommodation and need a grocery shop, or simply looking to take back a Lake District souvenir there a few little shops in and around Arnside to suit your shopping needs.

• Arnside Old Bakehouse 

Open everyday 8:30am-5pm 

The Arnside Old Bakehouse café and bake house is a family run business that has been serving generations of locals and tourists for over 70 years. The bakehouse has everything you need with the farm shop providing fresh local produce such as fruit, vegetables and milk from local farmers alongside freshly sliced ham, beef, cheeses and baguettes. The pie section of shop stock delicious home baked meat and potato, steak and ale, cheese and leek and onion pies! For a sweet treat, take a look at the bakery’s cake shelf stocked with delicious, handmade cakes, muffins, cookies and more!  The shop prides themselves on supporting local businesses and sell Cumbrian-made condiments, drinks and gifts.

• Wolf House Gallery 

Open Wednesday-Sunday 10:30am-4pm 

The Wolf House Gallery in Silverdale is the perfect place for a seaside themed gift for your family, friends or simply for yourself! This emporium set in a charming, old stone building has its own cosy log burner to keep shoppers warm! The gallery houses a collection of homeware, artwork and quirky gifts. The gallery is conveniently situated next door to a café to enjoy a post-shopping cake and coffee.

• The Country Shop

Open Monday-Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 10am-4pm

A family owned boutique set on the promenade, The Country Shop sells clothing and accessories fit for a day at the beach. The shop sells causal men’s and women’s summer clothing ideal for exploring the nearby seaside villages and towns in style. The shop prides themselves on their eco-friendly attitudes meaning you can have a guilt-free shopping trip here! 

• Arnside House Gift Shop 

Open everyday 10am-5:30pm

Arnside House Gift Shop has arguably one of the best views out of all gift shops around! The seaside shop sells everything from ice cream, beer and sweets to greeting cards, gifts, homeware and more. The shop stock a lot of Fairtrade items too reflecting their eco-conscious attitude. Unfortunately, the priceless view isn’t for sale!

• The Coast Office 

Open Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5pm 

The Coast Office is a family run gift store in Arnside telling a range of interesting and varied gifts for a friend or a treat for yourself. The shop likes to support local artists in the area selling products ranging from photographic cards and prints of Morecambe Bay and the surrounding area, to local fused glass design; skillfully crafted wood carvings; stained glass birds; handmade soap and candles; crafted plaques for the wall; and pottery made with the world's most ancient techniques. The gift store also stock Fair Trade international products, such as unusual teak and glass pieces from Indonesia; handcrafted birds and animals; natural woven wall hangings; and skillfully crafted wooden sculptures and furniture. Once you’ve chosen a gift or two, enjoy some of the stores Howgill Fellside Ice Cream which is made locally on owners farm with the help of their herd of Freisan and Jersey Cows!

 When is the best time to visit Arnside?

Arnside is a beautiful place to visit all year round, however there are pros and cons depending on which season you visit…

• Spring  (March- June)

Spring is a beautiful season in the Lake District; lambs are jumping around the fields and fells, daffodils are blooming and tourists are returning following the quieter winter months. Arnside is a great place to be in the spring, with plenty going on as the village begins to open up following winter… 

Vibrantly coloured spring walks… 

Walks around Arnside’s nearby gardens and woodland provide endless opportunities to spot new wildlife and blooms including bluebells, snowdrops and daffodils. Ashmeadow, Arnside Knott Wood and Grubbins Wood are particularly beautiful during springtime as the woodland is carpeted with vibrant spring blooms. Visiting the gardens of Leighton Hall is recommended during springtime to see the hall’s landscape at its best. 

Spring events… 

• The Arnside Horticultural Society host their Spring Show at the Methodist Hall in Arnside. The first show was held in 1934 and showcases flower displays created by locals.   

• Gait Barrow National Nature Reserve host spring morning walks to listen out for birdsongs. If you’re lucky, you may hear the elusive Hawfinch! The early morning spring birdsong walks last around 2 hours and are a great introduction into spring.

• Summer (June- September)

Summer is the most popular time for visitors to the Lake District with warmer weather, longer days and public holidays encouraging tourists. Arnside is often at its busiest during summertime, making the town a lively place to be.

 - Outdoor activities

Anything outdoors is best enjoyed when the weather is warm and dry, and lots of outdoor activity centres only host events in the summer. Ferries and launches on the nearby Windermere Lake run a more frequent timetable and host summer events and deals including parties and dinners on deck. The surrounding marinas on Windermere re-open for the season offering water sports activities and boat hires.  Beach days with fish and chips and ice cream on Arnside and Silverdale beaches is the ultimate summer day activity! 

• Camping

Campsites in and nearby Arnside such as Hollins Farm re-open for the summer season between March-October. The warmer weather makes camping an ideal way to spend summer nights in Arnside and Silverdale and often the cheapest way, due to hotels and accommodation often peaking in price during this busy time of year.

• Summer Events

• The Silverdale and Arnside Art and Craft Trail is a popular summer event in the coastal towns calendar for both locals and visitors. Residents from the villages of Arnside and Silverdale come together to show off their creative skills in a charming trail that spans a good section of the AONB. Taking place usually in June or July, the event consists of open studios, exhibitions, workshops and demonstrations taking place in both villages.

• Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is a beautiful time in the Lake District, with summer crowds disappearing and autumn leaves falling, its time for wild, wrapped up walks, cosy pubs, hot chocolates and Halloween activities… 

• Autumn coloured hikes… 

  Hiking around Arnside and Silverdale during autumn is a beautiful time, with woodland walks being a great option to display the leaves changing colours alongside some of the grassier fells which showcase stunning purple heather and orange bracken.  Some vibrant woodland walks to including Arnside Knott,  Ashmeadow and Grubbins Wood. 

• Halloween activities 

The RSPB Leighton Moss nature reserve host a range of fun activities for children during October half term with past events including spooky trails such as the ‘Monsters of the Moss’ family trail which follows the creepy crawlies that live amongst the trees. At dusk, members of the team run a Bats Bones and Broth event where you may be able to spot some real life bats whilst children enjoy a pot of warming broth made in cauldrons.

• Winter (November- February)

Winter is likely the quietest time of year in the Lake District with closed amenities and cold weather keeping many tourists away. This doesn’t mean Arnside is off limits; it’s a great way to explore and enjoy the town without the crowds. Winter in Arnside can mean stunning snowy hikes, cosy pubs with a roaring fire and festive Christmas days…

• Cosy pubs

Finding a cosy pub with a fire is a great way to end a winter’s day in Arnside.  Local pubs including the Ye Old Fighting Cocks and The Albion have cosy, roaring fires to warm up next to with a locally brewed pint and some seasonal pub grub.

• Christmas activities 

The coastal town of Arnside lights up around Christmas time and holds a delightful Christmas Country Market in the town centre consisting of a range of local stalls selling seasonal preserves, fresh eggs, hand-made chocolates, fresh fish, home-grown flowers, fruit & veg and a selection of plants. There are also stalls selling crafts and watercolour, which make an ideal Christmas gift!

 Where to park in Arnside

Whether you’re planning a hike, bike ride or stroll by the seaside here’s a handy guide on where to park in Arnside.

• Arnside Promenade

The main car park for access to the promenade, shops and beach shore, Arnside Promenade is a free car park offering excellent estuary views.

• Arnside Station Parking

Visitors to Arnside can park beside the train station at a charge of £3 for the whole day.

• Arnside Knott car park

At the foot of Arnside Knott, there is a small, free car park providing easy access to the woodland and summit of the hill.

• Eaves Wood National Trust Car Park

A small, free National Trust car park at Eaves Wood, ideal for exploring the woodland and park.

 Gyms in Arnside

When visiting the Lake District, the most obvious choice for exercise would be a hike. In Arnside, you’re spoilt for choice with little woodland strolls or more strenuous hill days. But for the days when you can’t get outside or fancy a session in the gym, there are a few nearby indoor activity centres and gyms to visit.

• Endure Health and Fitness

Open Monday-Friday 9am-12pm, 1pm-6pm, Sunday 9am-12pm

Situated around 20 minutes away from Arnside in Carnforth, Endure Health and Fitness centre offers a cardio theatre, a boxing gym, weight stations and fitness classes.  Memberships start from as little as £1 per day with the centre also offering one-off day sessions.

• Ulverston Leisure Centre 

Open Monday-Saturday 6:30am-9:30pm, Saturday 6:30am-5:45pm, Sunday 9am-4pm 

Less than half an hour away in the coastal town of Ulverston, Ulverston Leisure Centre is home to a state of the art gym, pool, sports pitch and Cumbria’s largest tennis centre. The gym has everything you need for solid workout including 36 stations with a mixture of cardiovascular and resistance-training equipment as well as free weights. The centre also hosts fitness classes including dance aerobics, circuits, boxfit, spinning, yoga, pilates, and Zumba. Fitness classes cost