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Renowned for it’s craggy peaks, glistening lakes and rolling countryside, are the Lake District beaches amongst the regions best kept secret?

Escape the hustle and bustle of the UK’s favourite traditional seaside towns and spend peaceful days amongst the shores of Cumbria. With mountanous backdrops, quaint, coastal villages and secluded sands, the Lake District is home to a breath-taking collection of beautiful beaches. 

Continue reading to discover more on about our top Lake District beaches, hand-picked by Lakelovers…


1. St. Bees Beach, North Cumbria

A view of the pebble beach at St Bees Beach

St Bees beach sits on the coast of Cumbria, a short distance from the town in which it takes its name. This award-winning Lake District beach forms part of the Saint Bees Head Heritage Coast, the only Heritage Coast between Scotland and Wales.

Decorated in a mix of pebble and stone, this Lake District beach is perfect for exploring, whilst the golden sand offers the best of both worlds. Be sure to pack your bucket and spade and spend the afternoon building castles in the sand!

It is the faciniating rock pools that sit under the sandstone cliffs of St. Bees Head that beckons intrigued holidaymakers. Climb amongst the fallen sandstone slabs and explore the small pools in search of marine wildlife and seaside treasures. Be sure to take care, as the ground beneath your feet may be slippery and uneven.

To explore further, follow the Heritage Path north along the cliff top. A short walk will bring you to the secluded cove of Fleswick Bay, or you can continue on to St. Bees Lighthouse. The highest cliff-top light in England, this is iconic lighthouse is well-worth a visit.

Type of beach: Sand & Pebble
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Lifeguard: No
Car Park: Yes
Postcode:CA27 0EY


2. Ravenglass Beach, Central Cumbria

The charming hamlet of Ravenglass sits on the coastal estuary, where the water from the River Irt tumbles from England’s highest peak, Scafell Pike, into the Irish Sea. Accessible by the A595, Coniston, Lakeside and Ambleside are all within easy reach of this quaint fishing village.

Fishermans cottages at Ravenglass beach

Historically, Ravenglass is the only coastal town that sits within the boundaries of the Lake District National Park. Because of this, we feel it only fitting to include Ravenglass on our list of the Lake Districts best beaches. With the rural delights of the Lake District National Park on your doorstep, you can enjoy an afternoon on the beach following an adventure through the fells.

Ravenglass beach has a unique blend of sand, mud, and shingle, offering beach-goers a change of scenery. Traditional fishermen’s cottages run parrallel to the shore. Paired with the surrounding mountain scenery, provide an idyllic backdrop for a day at the beach.

You’ll find your local amenities a short distance away, with public toilets located down a side street leading from the beaches Main Street.

For adventure away from the water, there’s also a small childrens playground in the village centre, along with the iconic Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway Station. Here you can tour the facinting locomotive museum or enjoy a journey through the Lake District aboard a historic steam train.

Type of beach: Sand & Mud
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Lifeguard: No
Car Park: No, however parking is available nearby in Ravenglass


3. Haverigg Beach, South Cumbria

Sitting at the mouth of the Duddon Estuary rests Haverigg beach, arguably one of the best beaches in the Lake District. This Blue Flag award-winning beach has been recognized for its cleanliness, and is simply perfect for a family-friendly day at the beach.

A large stretch of shingle gives way to an expanse of pristine golden sand. Here little ones can feel the waves splash onto their feet as they paddle the shores for the first time. Feeling competitive?

Adults and older kids can battle it out in a sandcastle building competition. This Lake District beach even has plenty of space to try your hand at kite flying or horse riding.

Boats on the shore at low tide at Haverigg Beach

A towering sea wall protects the RSPB Hodbarrow nature reserve sitting behind the beach, which plays host to a vibrant array of birds during nesting season. Expect to see wild swans, ringed plovers and lapwings.

Whilst there are no restrictions in place for your four-legged friends on the sandy dunes, dogs must be kept on a lead around the nature reserve.

A short walk through the nature reserve and past the picture-perfect port leads into the centre of Haverigg village. Here you’ll find all your essential amenities, including a range of shops and eateries. Closer to the beach you’ll find parking, public toilets, a small beach cafe and shop and an exciting outdoor playground.

Haverigg Beach is best visited at low tide, where beach-goers can enjoy a stroll along the sand to Silecroft Beach. A walk along the old sea wall will bring you to Millom Beach, a smaller, quieter alternative. Check the tide times ahead of your visit to avoid disappointment.

Type of beach: Sand & Shingle
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Lifeguard: No
Car Park: Yes
Postcode: LA18 4ES


Fancy a day at one of these beautiful Lake District beaches? Take your pick from our wonderful collection of Lake District cottages and secure your base for your coastal adventure today!

And if you’re looking for more ways to explore this picture-perfect region, give our guide on the best walks in the Lake District a read! 


This blog has been updated from original content written by Lakelovers