St Bees
Just 15 minutes drive away from Sycamore Cottage and Tethera Cottage, St Bees beach, located in the West Cumbrian coast, is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. The beach is named after St. Bega, an Irish princess who settled in the area in the 8th century and established a Christian community. According to legend, St Bega was shipwrecked on the coast of Cumbria and decided to settle there, establishing a Christian community.
The village of St Bees grew around the priory that was established by St Bega, and over the centuries it became an important center of pilgrimage and learning. The priory was one of the most important monasteries in the north of England and was home to a school where many young men received their education and where Rowan Atkinson also attended.
During the Middle Ages, the village thrived as a result of the wool trade, and many of the houses and buildings that still stand today were built during this period. The village also had a port, which was used to export wool and other goods to Europe.
In the 18th century, St Bees became a popular seaside resort, and many of the grand Georgian houses that line the main street were built to accommodate the growing number of visitors. The village also became an important center for mining, with coal mines and iron mines operating in the area.
In the 20th century, the village's fortunes declined as the mining industry declined and tourism moved to other areas. However, in recent years, St Bees has undergone a resurgence, with many of the historic buildings being restored and new businesses and attractions opening.
Today, St Bees is a charming village that offers visitors a glimpse into its rich history and a chance to explore the beautiful coastal and countryside of Cumbria. The village is also the starting point of the Coast to Coast walk, a 190-mile walk that takes walkers from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, making it a popular destination for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The beach itself is a two-mile stretch of golden sands, backed by sandstone cliffs and rock pools that are perfect for exploring. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfboarding, making it a perfect destination for families and beach-lovers. The beach also has a designated surf zone, making it a popular spot for surfers of all levels.
For those interested in history, St Bees Head is the starting point of the Coast to Coast walk, a 190-mile walk that takes walkers from the Irish Sea to the North Sea. St Bees Head is also home to the RSPB Nature Reserve, where visitors can spot a variety of seabirds such as guillemots and kittiwakes.
For walkers, there are many trails that wind through the surrounding countryside, including the St Bees Heritage Trail, which takes visitors through the village and its history, and the Red Hills walk, which offers panoramic views of the coast and the Irish Sea.
For those who want to explore the area further, the nearby towns of Whitehaven and Egremont are worth a visit, with their charming streets, historic buildings, and independent shops. And if you're looking for a place to eat, there are many pubs and restaurants in the area, serving delicious local food and drink.
In conclusion, St Bees beach is an ideal destination for those looking for a mix of natural beauty, history and adventure, with plenty of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you're a beach-lover, a walker, a bird-watcher, or just looking for a quiet place to relax, St Bees has something for you.
