Welcome to Special Silecroft

Get ready to explore 2,700 miles of the England Coast Path. Why not start your journey here, where the Duddon Estuary meets the sea?

What is a National Trail?

National Trails are long distance footpaths across England and Wales. They are managed by Natural England and local Trail Partnerships. Visit nationaltrail.co.uk to plan your next adventure.

On the Edge

The land between the England Coast Path and the sea is known as the coastal margin. You can access much of this on foot or mobility scooter under ‘coastal access’ rights. Please follow instructions on signs.

What can I do on the England Coast Path?

Walk or use all-terrain wheelchairs, but expect steps and kissing gates in places.

Stick to the paths when signs ask you to.

Ride a horse or bicycle only on an existing bridleway.

Read the signs – for your safety and to help protect nature.

Take your dog for a walk, but keep your furry friend on a lead, especially around livestock (legal requirement), and pick up its poo. Just their presence can make birds abandon their nests.

Respect those who live and work here – don’t stray into private gardens, business premises, arable land or golf courses.

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

What can I see here?

Watch your step, read the signs, keep dogs under close control and here is what you might come across:

Seabirds: Little terns are one of the UK’s rarest seabirds. Terns dive into the water for fish, especially near Hodbarrow lagoon.

Wading birds: Species like curlew, oystercatcher, redshank and ringed plover nest in grass and on shingle in summer. In winter they feed and rest at the water’s edge to restore energy.

Natterjack toads: Cumbria has 50% of the UK’s population of this rare toad.

Dune and heath plants: The coast near Silecroft has lots of rare species. Grazing animals help them to grow by keeping grasses short.

Visuals

This A1 sized sign has a sea green background and a large map showing the area between Bootle and Green Road in south west Cumbria. There are graphic illustrations of some of the birds mentioned, as well a a natterjack toad and a golden retriever dog on a lead.