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.