The Area

Within a short 10-minute drive from the park you will find Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve, lying at the heart of the Silverdale and Arnside AONB. One of Britain’s most important limestone landscapes, home to rare species of plants and wildlife, this is just one of the ideal spots to explore that surrounds our Silver Ridge park.

In addition to this, you will find other natural locations to explore, including Throwbarrow Quarry which is especially good for climbing routes and spotting local nature (find out more here) and the Beetham Fairy Steps which is a popular walking route.

One of the best features about our location is the coast being within easy reach, whilst also enjoying a woodland countryside setting whilst at the park. The nearby coastal villages of Silverdale and Arnside are filled with charming features, independent shops and breathtaking walking routes along the Morecambe Bay coastline.

Slightly north of our Silver Ridge park, just a 10-minute drive away, you will find Farleton Knott a magnificent walk with panoramic views across the entire region – spanning Morecambe Bay, the Silverdale and Arnside AONB, Kendal and the peaks of the Lake District.

In the same direction from our Silver Ridge park, you will find the charming town of Kendal known as ‘Gateway to the Lakes’ which has plenty to see and do whilst bursting with character.

Sizergh Castle, Kendal

Owned and operated by the National Trust, Sizergh Castle is a fantastic place to visit whilst spending time at our Silver Ridge park. Located in Kendal, there is plenty to see and do at Sizergh Castle from wandering its rich gardens and estate to enjoying coffee and a bite to eat in the café.

Brewery Arts Centre, Kendal

This hidden gem in Kendal hosts a variety of arts events and exhibitions and is home to two cinema screens showing all the latest releases.

There’s also a full programme of music and theatre events too, many of which are targeted toward younger audiences, as well as great food and drink in their Vats Bar and Grainstore Restaurant. There are also frequent crafts workshops for children to take part in too.

Kirkby Lonsdale

Kirkby Lonsdale is a market town near our Silver Ridge park, roughly a 20-minute drive away. Filled with history and character, you will find a variety of shops, restaurants and things to see and do – making it a must visit while spending time at our Silver Ridge park. A popular location to spend time in Kirkby Lonsdale is Devil’s Bridge, a three arched bridge over the River Lune.

Lakes Aquarium, Lakeside

This aquarium, perched on the southern tip of Lake Windermere, is home to more than 30 different marine habitats, featuring all kinds of species, both from the local area and around the world.

Some of the most popular exhibits at the aquarium include the adorable otters, who you can see being fed at certain times, as well as the underwater tunnel which lets you feel like you’re walking on the bottom of Lake Windermere!

If you want, you can also combine your visit with a trip on Windermere Lake Cruises, catching a steamer from Bowness down to the aquarium at Lakeside.

Wray Castle, Low Wray

This family-friendly attraction at Low Wray, near Ambleside, is a magical neo-gothic castle which is a firm favourite with kids, who’ll love exploring the various rooms and turrets (which offer great views out towards Lake Windermere.

While the impressive gardens are great to explore in their own right, there’s plenty to see and do inside the castle on a rainy day too, such as historical fancy dress outfits so you can dress up as a king and queen, as well as the Peter Rabbit adventure rooms which are packed full of activities for little ones.

The castle has only recently been made open to the public, having been taken over by the National Trust.

One of the reasons why the location of our Silver Ridge park in the Silverdale and Arnside Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is the easy access to the Lake District.

The landscapes found there makes the area an enduring favourite for walkers, while the forests, fells and waterways provide the perfect setting for sporting enthusiasts, whilst the historic presence brings extra character.

As the former homes of Beatrix Potter, John Ruskin and Wordsworth, you certainly feel the personality and character come through in the beautiful heritage of The Lake District.

The cherry on the cake is being able to say you have experienced this stunning area, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Far Arnside

On one of our coastal parks between the villages of Silverdale and Arnside, is a direct access point onto the Morecambe Bay coastline. Just a short drive from our Silver Ridge park, this is the perfect location to start a coastal walk.

Arnside Knott

Sat between the villages of Silverdale and Arnside, Arnside Knott is the perfect walk that will reward you with views across Morecambe Bay, Silverdale and Arnside from the top. Easily accessible from our Silver Ridge park, why not stop off at our nearby Silverdale Holiday Park for a bite to eat?

RSPB Leighton Moss

Spanning across the Silverdale and Arnside AONB, RSPB Leighton Moss is a fantastic place to explore on foot, with a variety of wildlife to discover. Whether looking for a peaceful walk, or things to do with young children, you’ll find the perfect day out at RSPB Leighton Moss.

Jenny Brown’s Point

The perfect vantage point to photograph the bay, you can access the coast from the south-west side of Silverdale. Just a short drive from our Silver Ridge park, you will find this is a good spot for watching the sun set.