Welcome to Shaw Meadow and Sea Pasture SSSI

You are standing next to the UK’s most northern lowland heath. With rare plants and plenty of wildlife around, there is much to see – if you look closely.

A very special site

Part of the land you are about to walk through is a very sensitive Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). In winter you might see animals grazing. They help to keep the grasses and shrubs short so delicate plants have room to grow in summer.

By sticking to the paths and treading carefully you can help our special plants to grow.

What can I do on the England Coast Path?

Walk or use all-terrain wheelchairs.

Respect those who live here: don’t stray into private houses and gardens.

Keep dogs on a lead and pick up their poo – it can harm the plants that grow here.

Stick to the paths to protect rare plants.

Use the beach as an alternative to this section.

In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

What can I see here?

Shrubs support small birds like whitethroat and stonechat.

Smaller heath plants include petty whin, heath milkwort and lesser butterfly orchid.

Visuals

This A2 size sign has a sea green background, and a map of the SSSI site and the England Coast Path route through it. There is a graphic illustration of a friendly golden retriever dog on a lead, photos of a lesser butterfly orchid and a whitethroat bird, and logos for Natural England, National Trails and Cumbria County Council.