Seascale

Seascale is famous for its sandy beaches and here the railway runs along the coastline between the beach and the low cliffs.  Taking its name from Viking times Seascale means “a shelter by the sea”.

Easy access by train has encouraged the growth of tourism to this appealing destination since the 1880.  Much of the Victorian charm remains including the wooden jetty which has been reinstated for sea fishing.  The old goods shed is now a sports hall and nearby is a children’s play area and 18 hole golf course.  Together with walking, attractions include wind surfing, water skiing, and a BMX biking centre.

Sample the delights of the local Ice Cream Parlour and cafe at the Bailey Ground Hotel.  With over a dozen flavours of home made ice cream there’s something for everyone.  For details, see www.baileygroundhotel.co.uk .

For historians, the area has the Grey Croft Stone Circle, on private land.  At Gretigate there are 3 circles of various sizes plus 9 small cairns. At Grey Stones, 10 of the original 12 stones remain plus another some 34 metres further away. The stone circles may date as far back as the Bronze Age but historians will also appreciate the more modern St. Cuthbert’s church in the village with its unusual stained glass windows.

For the hardy walkers, further inland (4 km/2.5 miles) lies Gosforth. Here the cross is generally regarded as one of Britain’s finest Viking treasures. This stands 4.5 metres high in the churchyard.  Other Viking treasures include “hogsback” tombs and the remains of other Viking sculptures and crosses.

 


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