
One of the best places from which to enjoy the sands of Morecambe Bay at a safe distance is Gibraltar Farm Campsite, near Silverdale. The camping area lies at the back of the farm, with the access road leading you through a lovely field beyond the trees, to the tent field - a large grassy area set around a rocky protrusion.You can see the capricious curls of Morecambe Bay's waves just beyond the walled perimeter.
If Morecambe Bay tires you out, then you're less than a mile away from Jenny Brown's Point, a popular viewpoint and birdwatching spot overlooking the bay. And the nearby RSPB reserve at Leighton Moss offers access to coastal lagoons, nature trails, and a visitor centre.
COOL FACTOR Farm camping with bay views.
WHO'S IN? Tents, campervans, caravans, dogs (on leads) - yes. Large young groups of under-21s - by arrangement. Groups can hire the woods for £100 per night (10 tents).
ON SITE Fifty tent pitches; 18 caravan pitches with electric hook-ups. Showers (2W, 1M), toilets (4W, 3M), disabled facilities. Washing-up area, onsite shop with home-made ice cream. Onsite sea-fishing available. BBQs high off ground allowed, only if extinguished immediately after. No campfires.
OFF SITE Wolfhouse Gallery (01524 701405) displays paintings, ceramics, and jewellery, and has a cafe. The Lake District is only a short scenic drive away - perfect for a picnic.
FOOD AND DRINK March down to the Woodlands Hotel (01524 701655) for excellent real ales. For BBQ inspiration, have a butchers at F & W Burrow & Son's (01524 701209).
GETTING THERE From the A6, take the B5282 to Arnside, then follow signs to Silverdale. Go through the village, then follow Hollins Lane for less than a mile; as the road turns sharply to the left, Gibraltar Farm is on the right.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT Train to Silverdale then the Silverdale Shuttle Service (Line 2) to the site.
OPEN Easter-October.
THE DAMAGE Pitch plus 2 adults and 2 children £15-£20.