Grange-over-Sands

The Edwardian resort of Grange-over-Sands, often called the 'Riviera of the north', is situated on the edge of the Lake District National Park. Nestled between the scenic Lake District mountains and Morecambe Bay, its sheltered location makes its climate one of the mildest in the Lake District.

In 2010 Grange was described by the Times as being one of the best seaside destinations in Britain for a weekend away. They praised it for being a "taste of Lakes tourism Edwardian style". For three consecutive years between 2012 and 2014, Grange won the gold award in the Cumbria in Bloom awards. The town was judged not only for its floral displays but also on the level of community involvement.

Grange-over-Sands is derived from the French for 'granary' as the monks at Cartmel Priory originally used the location as a grain store. It developed from a small fishing village with the arrival of the Furness Railway in 1857 and became a popular seaside resort attracted by its mile long promenade and mild climate.

The beautiful Victorian Ornamental Gardens feature many plant and tree varieties that would struggle to survive elsewhere and Grange-over-sands makes an excellent base for exploring the Lake District.

The Cross Bay Walks led by the Queens Guide across the dangerous Morecambe Bay Sands either start or finish at Kents Bank, depending on the tidal conditions. These popular walks are held troughout the summer months.


The delightful village of Cartmel near Grange features the historic Cartmel Priory which dates back to 1189, as well as an award-winning racecourse. It also boasts quite a culinary reputation with Sticky Toffee Pudding and Simon Rogan's Michelin-starred L'Enclume restaurant. In 2015 the Sunday Times named Cartmel as the 11th most desirable location in the UK to set up home, shortly after the village was praised by DJ Chris Evans as a "thimbleful of diamonds".