Carnforth Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Carnforth Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Carnforth sits at a fantastic crossroads for exploring multiple regions. The Lake District National Park is just 30 minutes north, the Yorkshire Dales 30 minutes east and Morecambe Bay 10 minutes west. I've found this makes it perfect for visitors who want variety without changing accommodation.

Carnforth Station Heritage Centre (LA5 9TR, open 10am-4pm daily) is a must-visit. This beautifully restored Victorian railway station was the filming location for "Brief Encounter" and houses an excellent exhibition about the movie. TripAdvisor score: 4.5/5 from 680+ reviews.

Leighton Moss RSPB Reserve (LA5 0SW, open 9:30am-5pm summer, 9:30am-4:30pm winter) offers fantastic birdwatching opportunities with several hides and walking trails. Look for otters, marsh harriers and bearded tits. TripAdvisor score: 4.5/5 from 790+ reviews.

Warton Crag (LA5 9PA, accessible 24/7) provides excellent walking with stunning views across Morecambe Bay. The limestone outcrop is a Local Nature Reserve with rare butterflies and plants. TripAdvisor score: 4.5/5 from 120+ reviews.

We recommend visiting Carnforth Bookshop (LA5 9BZ, open 9am-5pm Mon-Sat) - one of the largest second-hand bookshops in the region with over 100,000 titles across two floors. Great for picking up holiday reading for the hot tub!

Pet Friendly

Many Carnforth cottages welcome dogs and the area is brilliant for pet owners. The Lancashire Coastal Way and numerous woodland paths provide excellent walking opportunities without needing to drive anywhere.

The Canal Turn pub (LA5 9EA) has a dog-friendly bar area and beer garden with water bowls provided. Their Sunday roasts are particularly good after a long morning walk with your dog.

Leighton Moss RSPB Reserve allows dogs on the public footpaths that cross the reserve, though not in the hides or on the nature trails. The causeway path is particularly good for dog walking with views across the reedbeds.

For beach walks, nearby Morecambe has seasonal restrictions, but Bolton-le-Sands beach allows dogs year-round. The shallow bay waters are generally safe for dogs who enjoy swimming.

I'd recommend bringing towels specifically for your dog - the Lancashire weather can be unpredictable and you'll want to keep your cottage clean before enjoying the hot tub!

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Carnforth

1. Carnforth Station Heritage Centre - This lovingly restored station isn't just for film buffs. The Brief Encounter exhibition is excellent, but I was equally impressed by the detailed railway memorabilia and the authentic refreshment room where you can have tea and cake at tables used in the film. The volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable about both the film and railway history. One visitor noted: "Even if you've never seen the film, the nostalgia and attention to detail make this a fascinating visit."

2. Leighton Moss RSPB Reserve - Even if you're not a dedicated birdwatcher, this wetland reserve offers a peaceful escape with well-maintained paths and hides. Spring brings booming bitterns, while autumn sees thousands of starlings performing spectacular murmurations. The visitor centre has excellent telescopes and staff will help identify what you're seeing. A recent visitor commented: "We saw more wildlife in two hours here than in a week elsewhere - the coffee shop does great cake too!"

3. Silverdale and Arnside AONB - Just 10 minutes from Carnforth, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers spectacular walking. Jack Scout viewpoint provides panoramic views across Morecambe Bay, while Arnside Knott has woodland trails and limestone grassland with rare butterflies. The Silverdale Hotel serves excellent food if you work up an appetite. Visitor feedback: "The changing light across the bay makes every visit different - we've been coming for years and still find new paths."

Is Carnforth good for families with young children?

Yes! Greenlands Farm Village (LA6 1JH) has animal feeding sessions, indoor play areas and a good café. Morecambe's Happy Mount Park has splash pads in summer and many cottages with hot tubs have enclosed gardens where kids can play safely.

Can I get around Carnforth without a car?

Carnforth has good rail connections to Lancaster, Manchester and the Lake District. Local buses serve surrounding villages and the flat terrain is ideal for cycling. However, a car gives more flexibility for exploring the wider area.

What's the best time of year to visit?

Spring offers wildlife watching opportunities and quieter attractions. Summer brings longer days for exploring, though school holidays are busier. Autumn has beautiful colours in nearby woodlands and winter offers dramatic coastal views - with your hot tub being particularly welcome after cold walks!

Are there good restaurants in Carnforth?

The Royal Station Hotel serves reliable pub classics, while The Canal Turn offers good quality food with local ingredients. For something special, try Morecambe's Aspect Bar & Bistro (15 minutes' drive) with excellent seafood and bay views.

Is Carnforth suitable for walkers?

Absolutely! The Lancashire Coastal Way, Limestone Link and numerous local footpaths offer walks for all abilities. OS Explorer map OL7 covers the area well and several cottages provide walking guides for guests.

What should I pack for a Carnforth cottage break?

Waterproofs and walking boots are essential regardless of season. Binoculars are useful for wildlife watching and don't forget swimwear for your hot tub! Most cottages provide towels, but check before travelling.

1. Carnforth Station Heritage Centre
2. Leighton Moss RSPB Reserve
3. Arnside & Silverdale AONB
4. Visit Lancashire Official Tourism Site