Cumbria Self Catering Holidays in the Western Lake District and Solway Coast
Unspoilt, a complete getaway, stunning are just some of the words that can describe Cumbria self catering cottages in the Western Lake District and Solway Coast.
Unlike the southern and central Lake District the Western Lake District and Solway Coast area is relatively unknown; yet this region has so much to offer and many beautiful Cumbria cottages. The roads are comparatively quiet and, if you crave solitude, many of them lead to the quiet sandy beaches and sandy beaches in this designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Cumbria has more than 93 miles of coastline; and at Allonby and Silloth you can enjoy dramatic views across to southern Scotland and the Isle of Man. Also located close by is the seaside destination of Silloth, which has a quaintness and genteel aura. The name Silloth us a derivation of “sea-laths” – a site where the monks of Holme Cultram Abbey drained their grain in buildings called “laths”. This seaside town was originally planned as a port for Carlisle, today the town has cobbled streets, a small working harbour, a promenade, a choice of shingle of sandy beaches, 1.5 miles promenade, fun fair, open air market, paddling pool, and an 18 hole golf course.
The Western Lake District holds a number of surprises; and none more so than the wide vista of beach that is Allonby Bay. Upon approaching Allonby along the B5300 the stunning views are blocked by the sand dunes; but eventually upon approaching the whole horseshoe of Allonby Bay opens up before you. This delightful seaside village is located between Maryport and Silloth and epitomises what a seaside village used to be; with its cobbled streets, wild ponies on the Beach Green and tame ones to ride on the beach. The village is also very popular for windsurfing and is has a reputation for being one of the best in the North West along with Cumbria cottages a plenty. Allonby also has a wealth of places to eat and drink with a number of bars, restaurants and café’s as well as the famous ice cream shop on the sea front.
Maryport is a nautical town is less than 20 miles from Keswick in the heart of the Lake District! This seaside town is a well preserved example of Georgian planning and many fine buildings are dotted around the streets and alleys of this small town. The town also hosts the Lake District Coast Aquarium; designed to portray marine and fresh water fish in their natural surroundings, The Senhouse Roman Muesum, and the Wave Centre; by the harbour a new attraction telling the story of Maryport’s development from the 18th Century to the present day, through a number of different exhibits. The town also hosts an annual Blues Festival in late-July.
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of this area is with an ice cream, on a warm summer’s evening with the salty scent of the sea in the air and the sun setting over the Scottish mountains from across the bay. These are the very things which Cumbria cottages holiday memories are made of.