What’s special about Arnside & Silverdale?
Arnside & Silverdale National Landscape is a unique landscape of national importance. It was designated in 1972 and covers an area of approximately 75 km2. Recognised as one of England’s finest landscapes, the area is especially celebrated for its vibrant, patchwork landscape. The area is bursting with plants, birds and butterflies, and an extraordinary range of diverse habitats. The mosaic of limestone pavements, low limestone hills, ancient woodlands, mosses, orchards and meadows, along with magnificent views over Morecambe Bay, make this a truly special place.
Thousands of years of interaction between human activity and nature have shaped the character of this impressive landscape. Painting picturesque scenes of contrasting habitats, criss-crossed by limestone field boundaries and hedgerows, and dotted with distinctive buildings and settlements.
Positioned on the dramatic coastline with the Lake District to the west and north, and the Yorkshire Dales and Forest of Bowland to the east and south – this landscape promises spectacular panoramic views from areas of higher ground. The views from Arnside Knott, Warton Crag are especially breathtaking, and on a clear day you can even see Blackpool Tower to the south. And in perfect contrast, the limestone pavements, valleys and woodlands nestled below transport you into magical storybook scenes that could inspire folklore for generations to come.