Hodbarrow House

Situated on the fringes of the Lake District National Park and at the mouth of the Duddon Estuary, lies the small coastal town of Millom. Surrounded by numerous beaches and breathtaking beauty, this former bustling mining town, now enjoys a slower pace of life, however, offers plentiful amenities including several food stores, independent shops, takeaways, a museum, a theatre, train station, and more.

In the immediate area, nearby delights include the RSPB wildlife reserve at Hodbarrow, and the serene expansive beaches of Haverigg and Silecroft. Here you can sit idly, soak up the views and watch numerous sea birds take flight. Insider tip, the sunsets from Silecroft are truly stunning.

For those looking to stay active, Black Combe can be seen dominating the skyline, a 600m fell which on a clear day offers great views over the Cumbrian peninsula, coastline, and the Lake District fell ranges. The Cumbrian Coastal Way can also be accessed from Silecroft beach and offers fantastic views across the Irish Sea towards the Isle of Man.

Port Haverigg WakePark is Cumbria’s only wakeboarding park and is open to all abilities. Activities include wakeboarding, paddleboarding, water skiing, and an adventure park! Refreshments at the nearby ski bar of Herdwicks Cafe, are a must after a morning or afternoon spent on the water. A lap of the sea wall, whether on foot or by bike also offers fantastic big sky views towards the Lake District fells and the best bit, most of the time you will have it to yourself.

For horse lovers, Cumbrian Heavy Horses, are a sight to behold as majestic Shire Horses make their way down Silecroft Beach amongst the sea spray. Suitable for riders of varying ability this is an experience not to be missed.

Further up the coastline, there’s plenty more to keep you entertained, step back in time at the impressive Muncaster Castle, a historic castle with impressive gardens and Hawk & Owl centre, a great day out for the whole family.

Or hop on board the steam-powered La’al Ratty at Eskdale and enjoy a seven-mile scenic journey up to Ravenglass. Booking in advance is recommended during peak seasons. Make sure to also pay a visit to the Byre Cafe at Bootle for generous portions of hearty homemade food!

If you’re looking to also explore the beauty of the Lakes then the Lakeland villages of Coniston, Hawkshead, and Ambleside can be easily reached within an hour. The Western Lake District including Britain’s Best View, at Wastwater, is also just a 50-minute drive North along the Cumbrian Coast.