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.