View of the beach at Sandscale Haws National Nature Reserve, in the Lake District, Cumbria | © National Trust/Paul Harris

Coast and beaches in the Lake District

Though better known for its inland stretches of water, the Lake District also has some great coastal spots to visit.

View of the beach at Sandscale Haws National Nature Reserve, Cumbria

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The beach at Sandscale Haws

Relax on the sandy beach at Sandscale Haws National Nature Reserve with views across the Duddon Estuary and discover the wildlife-rich dunes, home to rare plants and animals, including orchids, curlews and natterjack toads.

A wooden gate in a dry stone wall, with a view out over the estuary, on a grey day at Arnside and Silverdale.

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The coast at Arnside and Silverdale

At Arnside and Silverdale, you'll discover a wildlife-rich coastal landscape with views over Morecambe Bay and the Lakeland fells. Look out for wildflowers and butterflies, passing migrant birds and stunning sunsets.

Remains of industrial workings jut out from cliffs above a grey sea on the Whitehaven Coast, Cumbria

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The Whitehaven Coast

Explore hidden gems of history and wildlife, and views across the Irish Sea along this post-industrial coastline, which stretches from an 18th-century harbour towards sandstone cliffs.