Attractions and Places To See around Dundraw - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Dundraw, a hamlet in Cumbria, England, include natural features and historical sites. The area is characterized by its proximity to the Solway Firth and various nature reserves. Visitors can explore coastal paths, historical abbeys, and unique sculptures within a reasonable distance. The region offers a tranquil experience with opportunities to explore both natural and cultural environments.
Best attractions and places to see around Dundraw
- The most popular attractions is Solway Coast National Landscape, a cycle way that is a vast and diverse coastal area in northwest England. This legally protected area is an important habitat for migratory birds, seals, and rare amphibians.
- Another must-see spot is Skinburness Coastal Path, a beach and trail offering views along the coast. Historically, the port at Skinburness was almost completely destroyed by a storm in 1301.
- Visitors also love Sunset Sculpture (Big Fella), a man-made monument featuring a man and his dog taking in the view across the Solway. This sculpture, officially named 'Sunset', is locally known as 'Big Fella' and sits in Silloth.
- Dundraw is known for its natural features, including coastal areas and nature reserves, alongside historical sites and unique sculptures. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient abbeys to modern memorials.
- The attractions around Dundraw are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 photos and 20 upvotes shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 22, 2026
Solway Coast National Landscape
Highlight • Cycleway
🌊 The Solway Coast National Landscape is a vast and diverse coastal area in northwest England, stretching along the Solway Firth to the border with Scotland. Covering approximately 115 km², it has been legally protected since 1964 for its outstanding natural beauty. It comprises sandy beaches, salt marshes, peatlands, dunes, and cliffs. It is an important habitat for migratory birds, seals, dolphins, and rare amphibians. It includes parts of the South Solway Mosses National Nature Reserve, one of the largest unspoiled fenlands in the UK.
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Holmcultram Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
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Silloth War Memorial Model Airplane
Highlight • Historical Site
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Skinburness Coastal Path
Highlight • Beach
Just a year or so before the fateful storm, Edward I, on his way to invade Scotland, gathered some 50 ships in the lee of Grune Point at Skinburness.
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Sunset Sculpture (Big Fella)
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You might have to fight the wind here. 🌊 The Solway Coast National Landscape is a vast and diverse coastal area in northwest England, stretching along the Solway Firth to the border with Scotland. Covering approximately 115 km², it has been legally protected since 1964 for its outstanding natural beauty. It comprises sandy beaches, salt marshes, peatlands, dunes, and cliffs. It is an important habitat for migratory birds, seals, dolphins, and rare amphibians. It includes parts of the South Solway Mosses National Nature Reserve, one of the largest unspoiled fenlands in the UK.
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🏛️ Holmcultram Abbey, located in Abbeytown, is a former Cistercian abbey founded in 1150 by monks from Melrose Abbey in Scotland. The abbey grew to be one of the wealthiest and most influential religious institutions in Northwest England, thanks in part to its expertise in land reclamation, wool production, and salt mining. In the 13th and 14th centuries, it was repeatedly plundered by Scottish raids, including a major attack by Robert the Bruce in 1319. It was dissolved in 1538 during the Dissolution of the Monasteries, but the church remained as a parish church. Built of red sandstone, possibly from Scotland or St Bees, it retains medieval features such as carved arches and an impressive west entrance. Tearoom in the adjacent Abbey Cottages.
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✈️ On Silloth Green, directly opposite the RAFA Club on Petteril Street, stands an impressive replica model of a Lockheed Hudson Bomber. This aircraft was unveiled on April 1, 2018, to mark the 100th anniversary of the Royal Air Force and as a tribute to Silloth's role during the Second World War. Constructed of steel and later reinforced with fibreglass (GRP) to withstand the harsh maritime environment, the model is painted in the colors of No. 1 OTU Squadron, which operated from RAF Silloth. The Lockheed Hudson was an American light bomber used for coastal reconnaissance. Due to the high number of crashes in the Solway Firth, the area became known locally as "Hudson Bay."
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Memorial in Church Gardens to those lost in the World Wars.
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A local man named Peter Richardson commissioned this Ray Lonsdale sculpture but he passed away before it was put in place. The sculpture is now sits in his memory. The statue features man and his dog taking in the view across the Solway from a bench in Silloth. Its official name is 'Sunset' but locals know it as 'Big Fella'.
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Peaceful stretch of road alongside the Solway Firth
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Founded in 1150 by the Cistercian Monks of Melrose Abbey, Holme Cultram Abbey was once much larger than the building that is left today. In fact, it was once bigger than Carlisle Cathedral itself. However, following the dissolution of the monasteries in 1538 the monks departed. Today the building survives as the parish church for Abbeytown.
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The port at Skinburness was almost completely destroyed by a great storm in 1301. To guard against future catastrophe, the landowners built the inland village of Newton Arlosh and much of the population moved to the new settlement. Just a year or so before the fateful storm, Edward I, on his way to invade Scotland, gathered some 50 ships in the lee of Grune Point at Skinburness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore near Dundraw?
The area around Dundraw offers several natural features. You can visit the Solway Coast National Landscape, a vast and diverse coastal area known for its natural beauty and as an important habitat for migratory birds. Additionally, the Skinburness Coastal Path provides scenic views along the coast. Further afield, Finglandrigg Woods National Nature Reserve and Drumburgh Moss National Nature Reserve offer diverse wildlife and walking trails.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit?
Yes, Dundraw and its surroundings have historical significance. You can explore Holmcultram Abbey in Abbeytown, a former Cistercian monastery founded in 1150. While much smaller today, it still serves as a parish church. The area also features several Grade II listed buildings, primarily farmhouses, showcasing historical architecture. Wordsworth House, the childhood home of William Wordsworth, is also about 13 miles away in Cockermouth.
Where can I find unique sculptures or monuments?
In Silloth, you can see the Sunset Sculpture (Big Fella), which depicts a man and his dog enjoying the view across the Solway. Another notable monument is the Silloth War Memorial Model Airplane, a replica Lockheed Hudson Bomber, commemorating Silloth's role in WWII.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities around Dundraw?
Many of the natural and historical sites are suitable for families. The Solway Coast National Landscape and Skinburness Coastal Path offer opportunities for walks and exploring the outdoors. The Sunset Sculpture (Big Fella) is also a popular spot for all ages. Additionally, the nearby nature reserves provide gentle trails for family walks.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, including easy to moderate trails along the coast like the Silloth Coast & Grune Point loop. For cycling enthusiasts, there are road cycling and touring bicycle routes around Dundraw, ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'View Across the Irish Sea' loop. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Dundraw, Road Cycling Routes around Dundraw, and Cycling around Dundraw guides.
Are there specific hiking trails near Dundraw?
Yes, there are several hiking trails available. For example, you can explore the moderate 'Silloth Coast & Grune Point loop' or easier options like the 'Silloth East Cote Lighthouse – Sunset Sculpture (Big Fella) loop'. The Hiking around Dundraw guide provides more detailed information on these routes.
What is the best time of year to visit Dundraw for outdoor activities?
While specific weather data isn't provided, outdoor activities in Cumbria are generally enjoyable during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This period is ideal for exploring coastal paths, nature reserves, and historical sites.
Can I visit nature reserves near Dundraw?
Yes, there are notable nature reserves nearby. Finglandrigg Woods National Nature Reserve, about six miles from Dundraw, is known for its diverse wildlife including red squirrels and various bird species. Drumburgh Moss National Nature Reserve, approximately seven miles away, also offers walks and opportunities to observe different species depending on the season.
Are there dog-friendly walking options in the area?
Many of the outdoor areas, including coastal paths and nature reserves, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always advisable to check specific reserve rules regarding dogs, especially concerning wildlife protection. The Hiking around Dundraw guide can provide routes suitable for walks.
What accommodation options are available in or near Dundraw?
Within the parish of Dundraw, Wheyrigg Hall Hotel offers accommodation, a bar, and a restaurant. Moor Row House also provides self-catering holiday accommodation, including Cowans Barn, and features an outdoor swimming pool. Nearby towns and villages would offer additional options.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Dundraw?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil experience offered by the area, combining natural beauty with historical sites. The Solway Coast National Landscape is particularly popular for its vastness and diverse environment, while the Skinburness Coastal Path is loved for its scenic views. The unique Sunset Sculpture (Big Fella) also receives positive feedback for its charm and viewpoint.
Are there any rivers or water features near Dundraw?
Yes, the River Wampool is located about three miles from Dundraw, and the River Waver runs to the east of the hamlet. The village of Waverbridge, part of the Dundraw parish, takes its name from a hump-back bridge over the River Waver, offering picturesque spots.
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