Autumn is the perfect time to explore the beautiful beaches along the Lancashire and Cumbrian coastline. With fewer tourists and cooler temperatures, you can discover the area’s sweeping sandy bays, charming seaside villages, and rugged cliffs in peace.
From Morecambe Bay to the Furness Peninsula, Lancashire and Cumbria are home to some of the best beaches in northern England. Their pristine shores offer stunning views and coastal walks with a charming seaside atmosphere.
Whether you’re looking for family days filled with traditional seaside fun, peaceful nature trails, or hikes atop dramatic cliffs, these beaches have something for everyone. Read on to discover the best autumn beaches to visit this October half term in Lancashire and Cumbria.
Half Moon Bay, Heysham
Nestled in the charming seaside village of Heysham, Half Moon Bay boasts beautiful views over Morecambe Bay and the distant fells of the Lake District. This curved bay is dotted with deep rock pools to explore at low tide, while its coastal paths are perfect for leisurely strolls to take in the scenery.
What’s more, the ruins of 8th century St Patrick’s Chapel overlooking the sands is one of the oldest religious sites in the region, making it well worth a visit.
Morecambe Beach
With its award-winning promenade and traditional seaside charm, Morecambe Beach is a classic English coastal destination. Spend sunny autumn days strolling along the promenade, enjoying amusement arcades, fish and chips, and rides on the beachfront, or
walk out to the end of the promenade for views over five miles of sandy beach.
Alternatively, if you’re keen to explore the rugged coastline, why not take a tour to wander the mudflats and tidal sands? If you’re lucky, you might even spot basking seals!
Arnside Beach and Sandside
Situated within an Area of Outstanding Beauty, Arnside and Sandside allow you to experience the seamless beauty of land meeting sea on the unspoilt shores of the Kent Estuary.
The peaceful village of Arnside has a beautiful sandy beach with panoramic views across the shimmering Morecambe Bay. Although quicksand makes swimming hazardous, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy this tranquil spot. Gaze out at the picturesque viaduct stretching across the water, or wander along the charming Victorian seaside promenade lined with quaint shops, cosy cafés and traditional village pubs. Keep your eyes peeled for ‘The Bore’ – a small tidal wave that sweeps into the bay every few weeks.
Just across the River Kent estuary lies the tiny village of Sandside, also boasting sublime views over the bay. With just a pub dating back to 1671 and a handful of restaurants and shops, it’s the perfect place for a peaceful escape. Follow the Sandside ‘Geotrail’ to uncover the geology of the landscape and coastline surrounding this hidden gem.
Bardsea Beach
On the Furness Peninsula lies Bardsea Beach. With its mix of shingle and stretches of sand, it’s the ideal beach for hunting interesting stones, driftwood and seashells. While exploring Bardsea, take a wander over to Birkrigg to discover the remains of an ancient stone circle and pay a visit to the serene grounds of Conishead Priory – once home to 14th century monks but now a Buddhist centre.
Although high winds and strong currents make swimming inadvisable here, Bardsea Beach is perfect for exhilarating coastal walks with your dog.
Plan Your Autumn Beach Getaway
With sheltered sandy coves, family-friendly promenades and dramatic cliff top hikes, Lancashire and Cumbria’s pristine beaches showcase the very best of the English coastline.
Free from the crowds of summer, autumn allows you to experience these breathtaking shores at their most peaceful.
If you’re looking for the perfect base to explore these sensational autumn beaches, choose one of Holgates Holiday Parks. Set along Lancashire and Cumbria’s gorgeous coastline, our cosy holiday accommodation offers comfort and convenience.
Spend your days adventuring along pristine shores before returning to unwind in a cosy cottage or caravan. With excellent onsite facilities and entertainment, Holgates makes coastal getaways easy.
To browse autumn breaks or book your beach holiday, please contact us today!
If you’re interested in buying a holiday home, take a look at our coastal caravan parks with beach access!
