The ultimate coastal walks: the Great Sands adventure

Are you looking for a jaw-dropping, spine-tingling coastal walk? Or a gentle saunter along a golden beach? Look no further! We’ve found the best, from vertiginous clifftops to a desert of sand, all around the UK... By Christopher Somerville

Morecambe Bay, Lancashire/Cumbria: There’s no more thrilling sands walk in Britain than this one. Under the expert and amusing instruction of Queens Guide to the Sands Cedric Robinson, you ford rivers knee-deep and savour the enormous views out in the middle of a vast desert of sand – with the tide waiting ominously on the horizon.
Photo: Visit Britain

The route: From Arnside to Kents Bank across Morecambe Sands. NB: it is extremely dangerous to try this unguided. Join a party by contacting Morecambe TIC (01524 582808) or Grange-over-Sands TIC (01539 534026).

Don’t miss: Cedric Robinson’s wit and wisdom, and the thrill of the crossing with its giant views.

Stamina required? It’s flat all the way, but there are rivers to cross so prepare to get wet, perhaps to the waist. Shorts and old trainers are recommended.

How long will it take? Three-and-a-half hours to do the eight miles.

Refuelling options: Abbot Hall coffee shop, Kents Bank (01539 532896), is great for a snack while waiting for the train.

Getting there: Rail to Arnside; M6 (Junction 36), B6385, B5282 to Arnside. Return by rail from Kents Bank.

Sleeping: Challan Hall, Silverdale (01524 701054, www.challanhall.co.uk), is a first-class B&B overlooking a lake near the shores of Morecambe Bay. From £30 per person B&B.

Maps: OS maps Landranger 97; Explorer OL7. Click here for the Ordnance Survey Get-a-map service.

More info: Grange-over-Sands TIC (01539 534026, www.visitlancashire.com).

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