Come for a holiday in northwest England, with sandy beaches to rival anywhere in the world, far-reaching views that will take your breath away and fun filled activities for all the family to enjoy, it’s no wonder that the Solway Coast in Northern Cumbria has been recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty within the UK.

Holiday cottages north west England

See Hadrian’s Wall during your holiday in the north

Known for its fascinating Roman history, including the construction of world famous landmark Hadrian’s Wall by Emperor Hadrian and its array of milefortlets dotted around it, culture buffs will enjoy exploring amazing attractions like Bowness On Solway, once a site of a Roman fort guarding the approach from the Solway and the 12th century St Michael’s Church in Burgh-By-Sands. An excellent exhibition in the church about its fascinating heritage is definitely worth a look and is a stark reminder to its visitors about the turbulent times we faced back in those days of the Roman Empire.

Explore the Solway Coast on the back of a bike

Looking for that perfect exercise kick to start 2018? The Solway Coast is also renowned for its wide selection of walks and cycle routes. The Solway Villages Trail for example takes you through ancient woodlands and settlements to what life was like in this part of the world all those years ago. As you trek through the trees, you will stumble upon Thrustenfield Lough, which once provided water to the corn mills in the local area and discover The Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail, which shows off the array of picturesque countryside visible from this historic work of art. Cycling is also a popular pastime and bike enthusiasts will relish the 22 mile Finglandrigg Wood and King Edward I Monument circular route which starts next to vibrant Carlisle city centre and goes along the open Burgh Marsh coastline with spectacular views of the winding River Eden. Forgotten your set of wheels? Don’t worry. You can hire a top of the range bike for the day from local cycling companies like Solway Cycle Hire.

Calling all bird watchers

Peace and tranquillity are features synonymous with the Solway Coast and bird watching in particular is a big draw with tourists. A popular staging point all year round for birds such as barnacle and pink-footed geese, whooper swans and lapwings before their flight to sunnier climates, there’s no better opportunity to see some of your favourite winged wonders from around the world than on these special shores. Those with ten green fingers will also appreciate the blooming plant life among the marshes and mosses. The insect eating Sundew for example has attracted crowds of ecological enthusiasts as have the rare Natterjack toads and honeycomb worm reefs. If you’re an avid animal lover, the Solway Coast has various nature reserves like the RSPB Campfield Marsh in Bowness-On-Solway or The Watchtree near Orton to discover fascinating facts about the many critters and creatures that thrive in the area.  

A seaside holiday in Victorian footsteps

From what seems like a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of crowded cities, coastal towns like Silloth, Workington and Bowness along the Solway Coast once did enjoy immense popularity with holidaygoers eager for a visit to the beach. Nowadays all three are much more serene and quiet but with exactly the same features that made them so attractive in post Victorian times. Silloth for its extremely romantic sunsets and marine mammals like porpoises and seals, Workington for its intriguing history in iron and steel manufacture and Bowness for its vast farmland and lush green moors. All spectacularly unique in their own way.

Sea, sand and sea food on holiday in the northwest

With its prime location on the North West shoreline, you’d expect the Solway Coast to deliver in terms of seafood cuisine and that it does in abundance! Solway Brown Shrimps caught and sold in Silloth are a tantalising delicacy known only to this part of the UK whereas Cross Quay Fish ‘N’ Chips based in Maryport offers freshly caught cod in a delicious crispy batter. Just what you need after a challenging morning cycle! Want to see the fish being caught in action? Solway provides sea fishing boat trips for individuals or groups to enjoy that extra special catch of the day.
Grabbing a pint in your local is a necessity too. And on the Solway Coast you’ll certainly be spoilt for choice. Why not rest your weary legs from walking along the Hadrian’s Wall with a stop and a game of pool at the family friendly The Kings Arms Pub in Bowness? Alternatively, sit back and enjoy the comforts of Cumbrian splendour from your own holiday home with a mouth-watering range of seasonal and award-winning cask ales brought to you by Derwent Brewery Ltd. Which one of their 11 homebrewed beers will be your favourite?

Book a different type of holiday this year

Although there are many stunning Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty here in the UK, there’s none quite like the Solway Coast. With its spectacular history, unique landmarks, picturesque landscapes and wonderful wildlife, a trip up to beautiful Northern Cumbria should not be a passing thought, it should be a necessity.

Places to visit for days out during your holiday in the north west of England

• Gretna Green and Scotland
• Dumfries and Galloway - just over the border
• Carlisle
• The northern Lake District