Nestled in the corner of England’s Lake District, Arnside is a quaint and picturesque village that’s bustling with history and natural beauty.
From hiking up Arnside Knott to exploring the ever-changing tides of the beach, there’s plenty to do in this charming town.
Whether you’re looking to take a boat trip on Morecambe Bay or enjoy a picnic in one of Arnside’s parks, you’re sure to find plenty of unique activities to make your visit memorable.
In this article, I’ll be highlighting the 15 best things to do in Arnside, England.
So, read on to find out more!
Hike Around Arnside Knott
You won’t be disappointed if you take some time to hike around Arnside Knott – it’s one of the most beautiful spots in England!
With stunning views of the Estuary, the rolling hills and surrounding countryside, this is an ideal spot to explore and take in the natural beauty of the area.
The hike itself is relatively easy, with plenty of flat ground and a good track for walking.
Plus, the views from the top are breathtaking, making it the perfect place for a picnic.
The area has plenty of wildlife too, so be sure to keep an eye out for the local birds and other animals.
And don’t forget to take your camera – you’ll want to capture the stunning views that Arnside Knott has to offer.
All in all, it’s an unforgettable experience and one that you won’t want to miss.
Visit Arnside’s Ancient Castle
Experience the magnificence of Arnside’s historic castle and imagine what it was like during its heyday!
Visit the ancient castle of Arnside, a perfect day out for all ages.
The castle dates back to the 12th century and was once a defensive stronghold of the English kings.
Get up close to the impressive walls and turrets, and learn about its history with a guided tour.
Take in the beauty of the surrounding views, from the mountains of the Lake District to the sea.
Explore the many rooms, chambers, and hidden passages, and admire the beautiful gardens.
The castle is a great place to take some memorable photos, and there are plenty of picnic tables to enjoy a well-deserved lunch.
With so much to discover, Arnside Castle is sure to be a highlight of your visit to Arnside.
Take a Boat Trip on Morecambe Bay
Take a memorable boat trip on Morecambe Bay, with its stunning views of the Lake District and the Irish Sea.
As one of the most popular attractions in Arnside, a boat trip on Morecambe Bay provides an unforgettable experience.
From the comfort of a boat, visitors can take in the breathtaking scenery, including the rolling hills of the Lake District, the tranquil beaches of the Irish Sea, and the majestic peaks of the Arnside Knott.
Boats can be rented from the Arnside Harbour, and experienced skippers will take you on a tour through the bay, pointing out the fascinating wildlife and offering a chance to spot the abundant birds that call Arnside their home.
A boat trip is the perfect way to explore the area and learn more about its history and culture; it’s an experience that won’t be forgotten in a hurry.
Explore the Ever-Changing Tides of Arnside’s Beach
Feel the power of the ever-changing tides of Arnside’s beach as they crash against the shoreline, creating a captivating and awe-inspiring scene.
Take a stroll down the beach and feel the sand between your toes, as you take in the vast expanse of the sea.
The beach is a great place to explore, with its ever-evolving sandbanks, rock pools, and mysterious creatures – the perfect place for a day of discovery.
Arnside’s beach is a great spot to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting adventure, the beach has something for everyone.
Enjoy the captivating views of the bay, as the tide changes throughout the day, or take a dip in the cool waters.
With its stunning views, rich wildlife, and ever-changing tides, Arnside’s beach is a must-visit destination in England.
Enjoy the Local Cuisine at Arnside’s Restaurants
Immersing yourself in the local cuisine at Arnside’s restaurants is a great way to truly get to know the area. From traditional English pub grub to seafood specialties, there’s something for everyone in Arnside.
The Kings Arms, situated overlooking Morecambe Bay, is a great place to sample some classic English dishes. The menu offers a wide selection of pub favourites such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, and even a Sunday roast.
For seafood lovers, the Granby Inn is a must-visit. The menu here features freshly caught seafood, with dishes like mussels, calamari, and prawns cooked to perfection. All of the food is served with a side of stunning views of the bay.
Whether you’re looking for a casual bite to eat or a more upscale experience, Arnside’s restaurants offer something for all palates.
Shop the Unique Boutiques in Arnside
Stroll through Arnside’s unique boutiques and explore the eclectic mix of clothing, artwork, and home decor on offer. With a variety of shops to choose from, there’s something for everyone.
From the independent fashion boutiques to vintage stores and gift shops, you can find something to suit your style. Whether you’re looking for something special for yourself or a souvenir for someone back home, Arnside’s boutiques offer a great selection of items. Try out some of the handmade jewelry, pick up a few local crafts, or find a unique piece of artwork to take home with you.
Arnside is also home to several antique shops, where you can find one-of-a-kind items. Here, you can discover hidden gems from the past, from furniture to jewelry, kitchenware, and more. Plus, the friendly staff in these shops will help you navigate the intricate maze of antique items and find just what you’re looking for. It’s the perfect place if you’re looking for something truly unique and special.
So, while you’re in Arnside, don’t forget to explore the boutiques for a shopping experience you won’t forget.
Uncover the History at the Arnside Maritime Museum
Ready to continue your exploration of Arnside? Then make sure to add the Arnside Maritime Museum to your itinerary. After shopping the unique boutiques, head over to the museum to uncover the history of the area. Here, you’ll find displays and artifacts that tell the story of the town’s maritime past.
From boats used for fishing and smuggling to the stories of local fishermen, the museum provides an informative journey into the past. You can also learn about the local area’s unique geology and the impact of climate change on the region.
The museum also has a great gift shop with plenty of souvenirs for you to take home.
Discover the Local Wildlife at Arnside’s Nature Reserves
Discover the stunning beauty of Arnside’s nature reserves and marvel at the abundance of wildlife!
From the Arnside Knott, home to a variety of woodland birds, to the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, these reserves offer the opportunity to explore the best of the local wildlife.
At Arnside Knott, you can take a leisurely walk along the trails and spot an array of birds, including curlews, lapwings, and redshanks. You may even catch a glimpse of a falcon or a kestrel, both of which are frequently spotted in the area.
The AONB is a must-visit for nature lovers. Covering over 1500 hectares, it is home to a variety of rare species, including otters, red squirrels, and badgers. In addition, the reserve’s salt marsh and mudflats provide a haven for an array of migratory birds.
Whether you’re an amateur bird watcher or a seasoned photographer, you’ll find plenty to explore in the AONB. With its breathtaking views and diverse wildlife, Arnside’s nature reserves are a must-see.
Relax in the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Take in the stunning landscape of the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and relax amongst the abundance of wildlife. This beautiful area is made up of limestone hills, estuaries, woodlands, meadows, and rivers, all of which offer the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day out.
The area is also home to a huge range of wildlife, including otters, red squirrels, deer, and many species of birds. There are plenty of walking trails that take you through the area, with stunning views and plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Alternatively, why not take a boat trip on the River Kent or Leven, or even take a guided walk with a local expert to learn more about the area?
Whatever you choose to do, a visit to the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is sure to be an unforgettable experience. You can take in the beautiful scenery, smell the sweet wildflowers, and bask in the peaceful atmosphere of the area.
Come for the day and enjoy a relaxing picnic or stroll, or stay the night and explore more of the area – whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to be captivated by this stunning area of natural beauty.
Explore the Coastline on Foot
Experience the stunning Arnside and Silverdale coastline on foot and marvel at the beauty of the area.
With miles of spectacular shoreline, walkers can take in the breathtaking views across Morecambe Bay, explore the rocky coves and beaches, or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll along the promenade.
There are plenty of routes to choose from, all of which offer something unique.
For example, the Arnside Promenade is a winding coastal path that takes you from Arnside to Silverdale, offering stunning views of the bay, while the Arnside Knott route takes you around the hill, with breathtaking panoramic views of the area.
Along the way, you can take in the abundance of wildlife, including seals, oystercatchers, and red squirrels.
Whether you’re a serious walker or looking for a leisurely stroll, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Take a Tour of the Town’s Historic Churches
Immersing yourself in the history and beauty of Arnside’s churches is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area. Be inspired by their stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere as you tour the town’s ancient churches.
Start with the Church of St. James, the oldest church in the area and the only Grade I listed building in Arnside. This ancient church dates back to the 12th century and is nestled among the rolling hills and meadows of the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Its unique architecture and beautiful stained glass windows make it a must-see.
The Church of St. John the Evangelist is another church worth visiting. Built in 1852, this church is a Grade II listed building and its spectacular Gothic Revival architecture is a sight to behold. Inside, you can admire the intricately carved details and the beautiful stained glass windows. The church also has a large graveyard, where you can explore the history of the local community.
From the Church of St. John the Evangelist, you can take a short walk to the Church of St. Peter, built in 1872. This stunning church is known for its magnificent stained glass windows and its beautiful spire.
No matter which church you visit, you’re sure to be inspired by the beauty and history of Arnside’s churches.
Take a Trip to the Arnside Tower
Standing tall atop the hillside, the Arnside Tower is a captivating landmark, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into England’s rich history.
Built in the 17th century, the tower was home to the Armstrong family and was used as a defensive watchtower.
Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can explore the grounds, take in the stunning views, and learn about the tower’s history.
The tower is open to the public for guided tours, with knowledgeable guides providing a wealth of information about the tower’s past.
During the tour, visitors will get to explore the tower’s five levels, including the old kitchen and the gun room.
The top of the tower offers the best views of the surrounding countryside, and visitors can take a step back in time and picture what life must have been like for the Armstrong family.
The Arnside Tower is an incredible reminder of England’s storied past, and it’s an experience that no visitor to Arnside should miss.
Enjoy a Picnic in Arnside’s Parks
Wrapping up a day of sightseeing, Arnside’s parks offer the perfect spot for a leisurely picnic.
With a variety of parks, there is something for everyone.
From the family-friendly Arnside Knott Park to the more secluded and peaceful Arnside Promenade, there is something for every picnic lover.
Arnside Knott Park is a great spot for visitors to enjoy a picnic, with its lush green grass, spectacular views of the River Kent, and a variety of wildlife.
The park also has a playground and a café, making it the perfect spot for families.
For those looking for a more tranquil setting, Arnside Promenade is a great spot, with its peaceful atmosphere, stunning views of the lake, and plenty of benches and tables for a picnic.
No matter your preference, Arnside’s parks provide the perfect spot for a picnic and a relaxing end to a day of exploration.
Spend an Evening at the Arnside Promenade
Take in the stunning views of the lake and feel the peaceful atmosphere of Arnside Promenade as you spend an evening here.
Arnside Promenade is a perfect spot for a romantic evening stroll or if you’re looking to get a closer look at the sunset.
The area is also known for its abundance of wildlife and birdwatching is a popular activity.
The promenade also has plenty of benches to sit on and take in the view.
It’s a great place for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
The promenade is also a popular place for anglers and fishermen, with the lake providing plenty of opportunities to catch some fish.
In the summer months, the promenade is a great spot for an outdoor picnic.
If you’re looking for a peaceful evening out, the Arnside Promenade is the perfect place.
There’s nothing quite like taking in the stunning views of the lake, feeling the peaceful atmosphere, and watching the sun set over the horizon.
Visit the Booths Factory Shop in Milnthorpe
If you’re looking to get some great value for your money, you won’t want to miss out on visiting the Booths Factory Shop in Milnthorpe. Located just a short drive away from Arnside, the Booths Factory Shop is a great place to find a variety of high-quality items at incredibly low prices.
From clothing and footwear to food and drink, they have a wide selection of products, all of which are discounted by at least 50% from their original price. You can also find many items that are exclusive to the shop, so it’s worth checking out.
The friendly staff at the Booths Factory Shop are always happy to help you find the right item for you, and they’re always willing to answer any questions you may have. They also have a great selection of local produce, so you can really experience the best of Cumbria.
With such great value and great quality, you won’t want to miss out on this great shopping experience.
Conclusion
The seaside town of Arnside is full of amazing activities to keep you entertained.
From hiking up Arnside Knott to exploring the ever-changing tides of the beach, there’s something for everyone.
Not to mention the delicious local cuisine!
Whether you spend an evening at the promenade, take a picnic in the parks, or visit the ancient castle, you’ll never run out of things to do in this charming English town.
I’d definitely recommend a trip to Arnside, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!