Complete Road Trip Guide to Solway Coast National Landscape
Read Time: About 18 minutes
Tall Ship La Malouine. Caroline Legg
Welcome to a campervan road trip to the Solway Coast National Landscape, a striking coastline and protected National Landscape in northwest England. It stretches from northwest Crumbia to the southwest of Scotland and contains a rich collection of diverse habitats ranging from dunes and salt marshes to peat bogs, meadows, and tidal estuaries. Join us as we explore scenic landscapes with flourishing wildlife and cultural heritage. We will also introduce some fantastic campsites in the Solway Coast National Landscape.
You’ll find no shortage of beautiful landscapes in the UK, and we’ve created a selection of detailed guides for the National Landscapes and National Scenic Areas within the UK. Our guides will include our recommended UK campsites locations, top places to hire a campervan, and the quickest routes to get there.
- Day Tripping The Solway Coast
- Towns of The Solway Coast to Visit in a Campervan
- The Remote Coastlines of The Solway Coast
- The Mediaeval History of The Solway Coast
- Where to Camp at Solway Coast National Landscape
- How to Get to The Solway Coast National Landscape in a Campervan
- How to Get to The Solway Coast National Landscape From London
- How to Get to The Solway Coast National Landscape From Glasgow
- How to Get to The Solway Coast National Landscape From Edinburgh
- How to Get to TheSolway Coast National Landscape From Cardiff
- How to Get to The Solway Coast National Landscape From Hull
- Your Campervan Guide to Visiting The Solway Coast National Landscape
- Where is Solway?
- What is Solway Firth Famous for?
- Can You Walk Across The Solway?
- Can You Swim in The Solway Firth?
- Time to Say Sayonara to The Solway Coast
Day Tripping The Solway Coast
Solway Firth. Caroline Legg
The Solway Coast is home to a range of rare and protected species, historical remnants of Roman Britain, and diverse terrain ranging from tranquil shorelines to peaceful countryside. Read on as we dive into the best things to do on a road trip to the Solway Coast National Landscape. You can combine this trip with a day trip from Carlisle and Tyneside or stop while following the Hadrian’s Cycleway or the England Coast Path, as both routes run through the National Landscape.
We start at Allonby, a pretty Solway Coast village famed for stunning beaches and gorgeous vistas across the firth to the Scottish Hills. The village boasts a rich maritime heritage with plenty to offer nature lovers. Explore Allonby Beach, a stunning expanse ideal for long walks, beachcombing and soaking in gorgeous vistas. The beach is a popular spot for sea fishing, with species like flounder, plaice and bass thriving in the waters. Families can picnic, fly kites and relax by the shore while the more active types hop on part of the National Cycle Route 72. Soak in panoramic views as you rumble through coastal villages, dunes, and lush countryside. The Cumbria Coastal Way also passes through the villages and towns like Silloth, Maryport, and Carlisle, which are nearby. Stop at Christ Church, a Grade II listed historical highlight built in 1845, Admire gothic architecture and peek at the graveyard with tombstones dating back centuries. Allonby North Car Park and Allonby South Car Park offer free parking and are conveniently located near the beach and village centre.
Towns of The Solway Coast to Visit in a Campervan
From Allonby, we suggest that a walk through the dunes is a must, as they are a defining feature of the reserve and offer peaceful, scenic walks through wildflowers. Keep an eye out for various bird species, including skylarks, lapwings, and wading birds, best observed through your field glasses. The wide sandy beach is great for exploring the coast, soaking in the scenery, and relaxing on the sand, preferably with a well-stocked hamper. Mawbray has a small free car park at the entrance, just off the B5300 coastal road.
Galabank is an independent campsite set at an elevated position, overlooking the gleaming waters of the River Annan and Everholm Park.
A ten-minute drive from the nature reserve leads into Silloth, a welcoming Victorian seaside town on the Cumbrian coast, offering a variety of attractions and adventures ideal for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and holidaymakers keen to experience a classic coastal experience. Take a walk along the Silloth Promenade, enjoying the buzz of activity on the seafront, with beautiful views extending from Solway Firth to the peaks of southern Scotland. Sit down for a quiet picnic on the greasy areas along the promenade, or head out for a fun-filled day out with the family at Silloth Green, an award-winning park with well-maintained gardens, play sports, a children’s splash park and open lawns ideal for sunny frolics. Golfers can hone their skills at the Silloth on Solway Golf Club, while history buffs dive into the local shipping heritage and maritime trade at the Silloth Maritime Museum. Collect seashells at the pebbly Silloth West Beach, a short walk from the town, and explore excellent fishing opportunities in the water. The coastal town is a short drive from the Lake District National Park, for our readers who plan to stop here for a few days and explore surrounding attractions, like Keswick, Bassenthwaite or Ullswater.
North Lakes Caravan Park rests on the shores of the shimmering Derwentwater, serving as an excellent base for exploring the wonders of the world-famous Lake District National Park.
From Silloth, the nearest attraction is Grune Point, a wild and remote area ideal for birdwatching, a beautiful coastal walk along salt marshes and dunes, and a fab spot to spot basking seals. Fall in love with this unspoiled corner on Solway Firth, offering expansive vistas of the estuary and marshes to southern Scotland. Birds flourish in the wetlands and mudflats, so pack your binoculars to watch oystercatchers, curlews, and lapwings as they forage for food and trill from the reeds. History enthusiasts can explore the WWII pillboxes scattered across the coastline to guard against invasion. Collect shells, driftwood, and other treasures as mementoes of your time on the Solway Coast National Landscape, and enjoy having most of the uncrowded, remote coastline for yourself. The flat terrain makes it a great place for cycling, and the Solway Coast Cycleway passes nearby. The area is also a fab spot to spot grey and common seals relaxing on the sandbanks, particularly during low tide. If you enjoy a quiet coastline, abundant wildlife and gorgeous picnic spots, Grune Point is an excellent inclusion in your road trip to the Solway Coast National Landscape. Visitors can park at Skinburness Road in Silloth, as there are no specific parking facilities at Grune Point itself.
The Remote Coastlines of The Solway Coast
Criffel And The Solway Firth. Summonedbyfells
If you’re hankering for more remote coastlines, head over to Anthorn and Morecambe Bay, another gorgeous and remote coastal area on the Solway Firth, famed for its salt marshes around Morecambe Bay, that brim with birdlife. Birdwatchers, nature photographers, and fellow nature lovers will be your neighbours as you explore this quiet corner on the Solway Coast. Parking is available near Anthorn, however, spaces are limited.
Anthorn and Morecambe Bay are very close to Glasson Moss Nature Reserve, which forms part of the South Solway Mosses National Nature Reserve, a remarkable and ecologically important peatland area on the Solway Coast. Explore one of the rarest types of habitat in the UK. Marvel at unique plant species like sphagnum moss, cotton grass, and heather. Not only are the peat bogs beautiful to look at, but they are vital for carbon storage, making them an essential habitat for fighting climate change. Walk on the boardwalks and footpaths, admiring an unusual landscape brimming with butterflies, dragonflies, and rare birds like snipe, curlew, and hen harriers. There are no formal picnic areas; however, the open spaces near the entrance and walking path are lovely spots for enjoying a light meal; check out the schedule for guided walks or talks conducted by the Cumbria Wildlife Trust and other local organisations. There is a small parking area near the entrance to the reserve with free parking and easy access to the walking trails.
Bowness-on-Solway, a sleepy village on the Solway Coast in Crumbia, is steeped in history and a quick four minute drive away from Glasson Moss Nature Reserve. The settlement is a gateway to exploring the western terminus of Hadrian’s Wall, and a fab stop for our readers who want to spend a night or two, and explore the famous Roman Wall that once marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. Explore the remnants of Maia, the second-largest fort on the wall, and walk sections of the Hadrian’s Wall National Trail, enjoying stunning views of the countryside and coastline. Enjoy prime birdwatching on Solway Firth, and take a tour of St. Michael’s Church, an ancient church built on the site for a Roman fort. Cycle the Hadrian's Cycleway (Route 72), which passes through the village, or hop on beautiful coastal paths that lead to nature reserves like Drumburgh Moss. Parking is available at Hadrian's Wall Car Park, St. Michael’s Church Car Park, plus free parking on some village streets.
Pop by at Campfield Marsh RSPB Nature Reserve, a large nature reserve managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), with wetlands, reed beds, salt marshes, and birds like ospreys, barnacle geese, and curlews. Free parking is available in a small car park near Bowness-on-Solway.
The Mediaeval History of The Solway Coast
Drumburgh Castle, in the small village of Drumburgh on the Solway Coast, is a fascinating historical attraction, originally constructed as a fortified house during the reign of King Edward III in the 14th century. The castle’s location on the line of Hadrian’s Wall offers visitors a glimpse into the past, along with lovely countryside views. Pop in at Drumburgh Moss Nature Reserve, a short distance from the castle, or hop on the Hadrian’s Cycleway (National Route 72) from here. There is no dedicated parking at the castle as it is a private residence, but our readers can find parking along the village road or nearby lay-bys. We also recommend visiting Burgh by Sands, a beautiful village with plenty of historical attractions and outdoor activities. Explore Roman and mediaeval history and perhaps enjoy an evening of pub hopping at welcoming local establishments. Traditional Cumbrian fare is ideal for post-exertion meals. There is a small parking area at St. Michael’s Church, plus free street parking in parts of the village.
Moss Side Farm is a caravan and motorhome club certificated location accepting just five small campervans, motorhomes or caravans.
The Solway Coast National Landscape offers a wealth of attractions and towns, making for an excellent escape in your campervan. Fall in love with this stunning coastal area, which offers plenty to offer, excellent parking, and scenic drives. We’ll explore our recommended campsites next and hopefully help you find a place (or three) to rest your head during your road trip to the Solway Coast National Landscape.
Where to Camp at Solway Coast National Landscape
With our guide, you have all the essential information to create a campervan road trip itinerary filled with the adventures that best suit your tastes. There are many stunning camping locations within the Solway Coast. However, we cannot list them all, but we want to share three excellent camping locations that can provide some insight and inspiration for the campsites that work best for your budgets and personal preferences. We look at three recommended campsites within the Solway Coast National Landscape - The Wellington Inn Caravan Park, Solway Holiday Village and Moordale Caravan Park. The Wellington Inn Caravan Park is a fab little pub site ideal for campers, motorhomes and caravans. Solway Holiday Village has a range of amenities for the whole family, and Moordale Caravan Park is perfect for quiet camping near the village of Blitterlees. Read on for more information on these sites.
The Wellington Inn Caravan Park in Carlisle
The Wellington Inn Caravan Park, Carlisle
The Wellington Inn Caravan Park is a stunning site ideal for campers who enjoy being far from the crowds of the Lakes yet close to a range of attractions ideal for day trips. The spacious and well-maintained site rests at the rear of a cheery village pub in the small settlement of Great Orton and is a quick 10-minute drive from Carlisle, with Gretna Green a further 10 minutes away. Pitching up at Wellington Inn ensures access to a hearty selection of pun grub and real ales, an open fire, and a lovely pet-friendly beer garden, all staggering from your pitch. The site does not have separate facilities. However, guests are welcome to use the pub toilets during the pub's open hours.
Solway Holiday Park in Silloth
Solway Holiday Park, Silloth
Solway Holiday Park is a fantastic site for thrilling escapes with the entire family. The recently redeveloped park offers families a range of top activities to suit all ages, including Birds of Prey showcase, axe throwing, plus access to a swimming pool, arcade, on-site bar, an on-site shop and evening entertainment. Take your pick of tastefully furnished caravans equipped with every home comfort, or stretch out on a generous pitch on a beautifully maintained tent and touring area with a long list of facilities. The site is well-located for adventures on the Solway Coast National Landscape and the Lake District.
Moordale Caravan Park in Silloth
Moordale Caravan Park, Silloth
Moordale Caravan Park is an excellent base for refreshing and relaxing down the south of England. The campsite rests on the Solway Coast, on the fringes of coastal towns like Silloth, and rests within a beautiful, lush area, ideal for walking and cycling. Numerous villages are peppered across the countryside, ideal for breaking a long walk with a refreshing pint or a quick meal. A little gate from the site leads to the beach, swapping countryside views with coastal scenery in mere minutes. The site has eight touring pitches and 80 mobile homes.
How to Get to The Solway Coast National Landscape in a Campervan
After reading about all the great places to explore on a campervan road trip through the Solway Coast National Landscape, we’re confident you’re ready for a beautiful coastal escape in a lesser-frequented, wildlife-rich strip of coastline with excellent attractions nearby. In this guide, we highlight the best attractions in this stunning AONB and list three beautiful campsites in the area, making it easy to plan your holiday while foregoing the lengthy research that usually takes place before a road trip. Campervans are a new way to experience a holiday and make it easy to squeeze in as many destinations as you prefer. Conversely, you can park at a quiet campsite while away from the hours - the opportunities are endless. In this segment of our Solway guide, we’ll map out the fastest and the most scenic routes from the vibrant cities of London, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Hull. Whizz over if you need a weekend break, or take your time exploring unnamed roads, stopping at quiet villages, and perhaps exploring a few big hitters along the way. We’ll examine routes and campervan hire options below.
How to Get to The Solway Coast National Landscape From London
Hire a campervan in London and make your way down to the Solway Coast via the M1 and the M6, arriving in Solway after a 6 hour drive. The fastest route is less pretty but takes the shortest time, covering 331 miles. If you're in no rush, leave London north and pass gentle hills and quiet villages, following the A5, and winding through the stunning settings of Shropshire and the Lake District. Take a peek at our fine collection of 116 campervans and motorhomes in London, and find more campervans for hire in Ealing. We recommend making a trip of it and spending a few days on the Solway Coast to make the most of your six and a half hour drive.
Age: 25-70
Travel: UK Only
Gearbox: Manual
Rosie is a lovingly crafted, self-built VW T5 Camper Van 2008. She sleeps up to 4 comfortably and an awning can be provided for an additional fee to sleep a further 2 people.
How to Get to The Solway Coast National Landscape From Glasgow
River Esk. James Johnstone
Glasgow has everyone agog with beautiful streets, stunning castles, and an inimitable atmosphere. While it might seem impossible to tire of these delights, there comes a time when a coastal holiday sounds like the perfect answer to the stress and schedules of the modern world. Hire a campervan in Glasgow and hop on the main roads, taking the M74 south, then A75, skirting hills and farmland, cruising swiftly into the heart of the Solway Coast. This is the fastest route, taking just 2 hours to complete, covering 109 miles. The less hurried route takes you from the city along the A27, with plenty of coastal breeze and lush hills, before hopping on Ayrshire’s backroads and through the heart of Galloway. Cross into Solway’s gentle landscape via the B7076 from there, and you’ll be at the Solway Coast in approximately three hours. The short driving distance makes exploring Solway on weekends, bank holidays or longer breaks perfect. We have 20 campervans and motorhomes in Glasgow, plus a range of campervan hire locations in Glasgow.
Age: 21-79
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Manual
Gorgeous Ford sleeps adults and will also travel people. This layout is built for the off-road family life, offering a Skyline Elevating Roof bed.
How to Get to The Solway Coast National Landscape From Edinburgh
Hoping for a quick weekend escape or a bank holiday adventure from enhancing Edinburgh? We have your back! Hire a campervan in Edinburgh and use the main roads to get you from the city to the coastline in two and a half hours. Take the A702, then the A74(M), which leads south to Carlisle and west to Solway, covering 111 miles. Alternatively, take the more scenic route if you’re on a long break, winding through the Borders, stopping to picnic by glittering lochs and rolling hills, and exploring lively settlements like Peebles and Moffat. Join the B7076 toward Annan, and you’ll be on the Solway Coast in approximately three hours. Take a look at 17 campervans and motorhomes in Edinburgh.
Age: 21-79
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Manual
Gorgeous Galli boasts a new layout built for off-road family life. She offers a fixed French-style bed to the rear, plus daytime seating that converts to a further double bed at night.
How to Get to TheSolway Coast National Landscape From Cardiff
Hire a campervan in Cardiff and make your way down to the Solway Coast National Landscape in approximately 338 minutes by using the main roads. Follow the M4, M5, and then the M6 northward, and you’ll be on the Solway Coast after covering 306 miles. For a more laidback drive, wind through the Brecon Beacons, up to Snowdonia’s peaks, then follow the A470 through the Cambrian Mountains before hopping on the A483 and A49 past Shropshire’s rolling hills and Cheshire plains. Expect 7 - 8 hours of stunning vistas and peaceful driving. Why not make a trip of it and spend at least 3 - 4 days, following the more scenic route and down to the coast? Browse through 62 campervans and motorhomes in Cardiff.
Age: 25-70
Travel: UK Only
Gearbox: Automatic
Berti is a brand new May 2024 registered Elldis CV40 campervan, ideal for sleeping two people. Whilst driving, you will enjoy all the modern features of a luxury vehicle.
How to Get to The Solway Coast National Landscape From Hull
Criffel And The Solway Firth. Andy Mitchell
If you’d like to upgrade from the beach in Hull to the remote, wildlife-packed, and exceptionally scenic shoreline of the Solway Coast, hire a campervan in Hull and follow one of these routes. The shortest route follows the main roads, covering approximately 183 miles in 215 minutes. Use the main M62 and the M6, snaking through the Lake District, where rolling hills and gleaming lakes comprise most of your views. If you’re keen to while away the hours, rumble past charming villages via the A1079 and A66 and make your way through the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, admiring the rustic beauty through your windows, with a travel time of around 4 - 5 hours, A quick drive of three and half hours makes a the Solway coast a great spot for weekend escapes, bank holidays and longer escapes. Find your perfect campervan from our selection of 90 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Hull.
Age: 25-70
Travel: N/A
Gearbox: Manual
Beautifully converted by Platinum Wave Campers, this fully equipped van sleeps 4 with a pop-top bed and fold-out double. Includes a kitchen with hob, sink, fridge/freezer, all cooking gear, table, chairs, and more.
Your Campervan Guide to Visiting The Solway Coast National Landscape
While we’ve done our best to create a comprehensive guide for a campervan road trip to the Solway Coast National Landscape, it’s natural to have some lingering questions. This section aims to clarify the remaining doubts by answering our readers' most frequently asked questions. We often get asked questions like, "Can you swim in Solway Firth, or can you walk across Solway Firth?" These are valid questions, which we answer below. We hope to help reduce the time you spend planning and researching by providing detailed answers to your queries.
Skiddaw View Holiday Park is an award-winning park nestled in a secluded and delightful setting on the fringes of the picturesque village of Bassenthwaite in the stunning northern Lake District.
Where is Solway?
The Solway Coast National Landscape rests in northwest England, along the border with Scotland. It extends from Silloth in Cumbria to the mouth of the Solway Firth, separating England from Scotland. It extends approximately 50 miles (80 kilometres) and is renowned for its untamed coastline, glittering estuaries, and lush wetlands, forming part of the Solway Coast National Landscape.
What is Solway Firth Famous for?
Mouswald & The Lake District. Kit Carruthers
There are many reasons to fall in love with the Solway Coast National Landscape. It could be the remote feel of being away from it all or the abundance of wildlife in the area. Many find the stunning landscapes ranging from expansive estuaries and salt marshes to rugged coastlines and wetlands, a veritable playground for many adventures on both land and sea. Nature lovers and social birdwatchers flock to the area to observe an array of flora and fauna thriving in diverse habitats. History enthusiasts love diving into the National Landscape's historical importance, exploring sites like Hadrian's Wall nearby. Anglers look forward to casting a line and enjoying hours of recreational fishing, while environmentalists help conserve its unique ecosystems and habitats.
Can You Walk Across The Solway?
While walking across the Solway Coast may seem incredibly tempting, we cannot recommend it due to the challenging and potentially hazardous conditions. Shifting sands, intense, unpredictable, swift tides, and quicksand are incredibly dangerous for walkers, a firm reminder that nature is in charge. We suggest exploring the Solway Firth's edges, enjoying well-marked coastal paths and estuary walks that boast incredible views, safe routes, and excellent spots to observe wildlife. Some of the more popular routes are the Hadrian's Wall Path and the Solway Coast Path. Nature reserves like Drumburgh Moss and Glasson Moss offer secure walking routes and fine views of the Solway Firth and its wildlife.
The Beeches Caravan Park rests in the compact village of Gilcrux, amid the striking natural landscape of the Western Lake District, and is a well-equipped, spacious and peaceful base.
Can You Swim in The Solway Firth?
Solway Coast. Jasis_Travel_Tales On Instagram
Swimming in Solway Firth is generally not recommended due to the rapid changes in tide, water depth, and dangerous currents, which can make swimming incredibly risky, especially if you are new to the area. The water quality in estuary areas like the Solway Firth can be variable, and there can be concerns about pollution or contamination. It is essential to check water quality reports before a swim. The waters are often cold, even in the height of summer, which may even risk hypothermia. Furthermore, shifting sands and mudflats can be hazardous should you get stuck. Sticking to recommended swimming areas in controlled environments and seeking local advice before taking a dip is best.
Time to Say Sayonara to The Solway Coast
As we wrap up our journey along the stunning Solway Coast, we hope our guide offers you the flexibility to tailor your adventure just the way you like it. With a diverse range of attractions, from historic sites and nature reserves to picturesque villages and coastal paths, there’s something for every traveller. We’ve also included handy details like campsites, campervan hire spots, and routes from major cities like London to ensure you’re all set to explore. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just in need of a peaceful escape, the Solway Coast promises an unforgettable experience. Safe travels! Look out for our next campervan and camping guide to a National Landscape when we explore the Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape.
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