10 Ideas for Places to Visit Around Morecambe Bay

Sitting exactly halfway down the UK’s western coastline, the beautiful Morecambe Bay serves as a perfect destination for those looking for a coastal experience to match the stunning scenery of The Lake District.

Just a 20 minute drive from the National Park, Morecambe Bay takes in the Arnside & Silverdale area of outstanding natural beauty, a trip down memory lane in the vintage seaside town of Grange-over-Sands, cobblestone adventures in the market town of Ulverston and long stretches of beach right around the Furness Peninsula which juts-out towards the Irish Sea – and that’s just for starters.

Here's our list of top picks of things to do around Morecambe Bay – where the coast is always just a stone’s throw away.

The Dock Museum

Famous for its shipbuilding heritage, dive into Barrow-in-Furness’ seafaring history at The Dock Museum, set in a genuine 19th century dock with a modern twist on the quayside. Home to exhibits documenting the town’s industrial history, discover more about everything from Viking treasures unearthed here, to how the town contributed to the Word War 2 effort.

Furness Abbey

Built almost 900 years ago, Furness Abbey monastery was once the largest of its kind in the northwest of England. In keeping with many other nearby structures, the abbey is built from stunning red sandstone and is tucked away in a quiet yet easily accessible site, surrounded by woodland and a green ampitheatre-style hillside. 

Photo: Safari Zoo

Safari Zoo

Just a five minute drive from Furness Abbey is Safari Zoo Cumbria. Home to all kinds of amazing animals, including giraffes, bears, tigers and lions, this is where many animals can also roam-free. Both adults and children will marvel at the sight of playful ring-tailed lemurs and penguins, which can be fed by hand. There’s even the opportunity to feed the giraffes in a specially-built feeding facility, and you can wander amongst the birds in a huge cage which allows them to stretch their wings and take flight. A large café and fantastic gift shop means nobody will go home hungry or without a souvenir of their memorable day.

The Coast Road

Linking Piel and Walney Islands all the way up to Bardsea, The Coast Road is the perfect way to experience Morecambe Bay on a mini road trip. The majority of the road is flanked by a long pebble beach, which can be walked along for several miles. The best place to pull-up and enjoy a stroll is just past the village of Baycliff at Bardsea, where ample roadside parking means you can enjoy views across the bay in all its splendor. For an even better vista, turn left and head up to the top of Birkrigg Common where the coast can be seen on one side; and the southern fells on the other.

Conishead Priory

Just past Bardsea outside Ulverston sits the beautiful Conishead Priory and the Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre, which is the home of Buddhist monks and free meditation sessions. The stark contrast of the traditional priory and the golden tops of the temple complement each other perfectly, and the resident monks always provide a peaceful welcome. Stroll through the gardens and relax with a cup of tea and cake in the onsite cafe.

Laurel & Hardy Museum

Did you know? Ulverston is the birthplace of Stan Laurel, one half of the famous comedic duo Laurel and Hardy. As well as murals dotted around the town, there’s also a statue of the comedy duo outside The Coro, which makes for a perfect photo opportunity. Nearby, visit the Laurel & Hardy Museum which is dedicated to the iconic pair. If you’re feeling particularly nostalgic, you can also find the house where Stan was born, commemorated by a special plaque to mark the spot.

Cumbria Crystal

How often do you get the chance to see glass artists at work in England’s last working, lead-crystal glassware factory? We’re guessing not that often – so here’s your chance. At the foot of Hoad Hill and the end of Ulverston Canal, Cumbria Crystal is no ordinary manufacturer of stunning glassware. They also provide glassware to TV and film production teams, including James Bond and Downton Abbey! Buy a glass and use it to enjoy a gin of your own creation at Shed 1 Distillery, just around the corner.

The Sir John Barrow Monument

No visit to Morecambe Bay would be complete without soaking up the views from the top of Hoad Hill. With the lighthouse-inspired Sir John Barrow monument standing proud at the summit, this brilliantly restored structure offers stunning views both across Morecambe Bay and over towards the Furness and South Lakeland fells.

Holker Hall

This lovely historic Victorian house is set in 25 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland where Fallow Deer can be seen wandering free in their natural habitat. Set in landscaped grounds, Holker Hall also offers a year-round programme of special events, so be sure to check what’s happening around the time of your visit. With plenty of options for food-lovers, local produce takes priority here thanks to its Food Hall, with a gift shop and children’s play area also adding to the fun. While here, grab a bite at The Courtyard Café, which serves brunch, lunch and afternoon tea.

Arnside & Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The Arnside & Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a destination in itself. Loved for its scenery, wildlife, culture and heritage, there are several small towns and villages to explore including Arnside and Silverdale, as well as Beetham, The Yealands and Warton, where Warton Crag – the highest point of the area - looms above. For walkers, there’s also Arnside Knott; Eaves Wood; and plenty more.