The sunsets at Morecambe Bay are famous for a reason: the orange skies reflect on the water, and set alight the bay for miles around. This is the northwest coast at its best: 120 square miles of intertidal sandbars, mudflats and rich cockle beds. Not to mention the Lakeland mountains rising up in the north, and the five rivers snaking across the bay towards the sea.
But the bay can be a treacherous place: fast tides and quicksand can catch anyone unawares. That’s why those wishing to cross can be led by a Queen’s Guide to the Sands, the first of whom was officially appointed in 1548 by the Duchy of Lancaster. These days the walk is a popular challenge for adventurous ramblers, hoping to enjoy the amazing vistas and incredible diversity of birdlife.
This design shows the view northwards across Morecambe Bay, with the mountains of the Lake District in the distance. An oyster catcher floats across the sand, and in the distance a couple take an afternoon stroll – a beautiful scene to enjoy as you dry the dishes!