Allonby Beach
The BBC has reported that a study of 2,750 people by the British Psychological Society has found that bracing sea air has a more positive effect than the countryside or an urban park. The study examined how differing types of outdoor environments could result in different reactions from the people experiencing them. Being beside the seaside was significantly more likely to create a feeling of well being. You can experience the seaside when you holiday in the Lake District. Here’s our summary of seaside adventures you can have whilst staying in one of the many holiday cottages in the Lake District.
Allonby has miles of sandy beaches and was once known for its herring fishing – you can still see evidence of this in the old kippering houses. Allonby village has a long history of being a sea-bathing resort – going back to the 18th Century. Today you can enjoy a bracing walk along the beach and reward yourself afterwards with a treat from the famous Twentyman ice-cream shop.
The Solway Firth & Coast – this area to the north of the Lake District National Park is recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. As well as its importance as a nature reserve, the area also has numerous links to the past. At Crosscanonby you can see some of the best-preserved salt pans, where sea water was captured to produce salt.
St. Bees Head – start of the Coast-to-Coast Walk, is a massive sandstone outcrop known as one of the best places for wildlife in the UK. Walk along the cliif top path to view seabird colonies including England’s only nesting black guillemots. Other birds you may encounter are Fulmar, Herring Gull, Kittiwake and Razorbill. There is a sandy beach at St. Bees and many rock pools to explore.
Historic Ports of Maryport and Whitehaven – Whitehaven grew in size and prominence during the 19th century as coal mining became a major source if income. Maryport was first established as a Roman fort (Alauna) around AD 122 and was a supply base for the coastal defence’s of Hadrian’s Wall. Again, mining played a large part in the ports prosperity. The port declined after the general strike in 1926 and following the opening of a deep-water port at Workington in 1927. Today, both ports are popular tourist attractions with many attractions such as the Maryport Blues Festival and Whitehavens maritime Festival.
So, if you want to explore the beauty of the Lake District, you don’t need to miss out on a seaside adventure. Stay in one of the many Lake District cottages and you can still be beside the seaside.
