Useful Contacts and Silverdale AONB AONB 2009 Landscape Trust The Old Station Building Arnside The Old Station Building FREE LA5 0HG Arnside Carnforth LA5 0HG Tel: 01524 761034 e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 01524 761034 www.arnsidesilverdaleaonb.org.uk e-mail: [email protected] www.arnsidesilverdaleaonb.org.uk RSPB Leighton Moss Visitor Centre The Myers Farm Wildlife Trust Silverdale Plumgarths Carnforth LA5 0SW Crook Road LA8 8LX Tel: 01524 701601 e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 01539 816300 www.rspb.org.uk email: [email protected] www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk Bittern Your Guide to the The The Wildlife Trust for , Bank House Farm Manchester and North Merseyside Arnside and Silverdale Silverdale The Barn d S Carnforth LA5 0RE Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty an ilv Bamber Bridge e e id rd Tel: Property Office 01524 701178 Preston s a n l r e (for general information) PR5 6BY A NT Wardens 01524 702815 Tel: 01772 324129 (for specific information on sites, email: [email protected] walks or volunteering) www.lancswt.org.uk

www.nationaltrust.org.uk A y r

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u Friends of the a a Natural Murley Moss o e f B Oxenholme Road O l Gait Barrows NNR a u r c/o Roundsea Wood Base Kendal LA9 7SS ts tu ta a Fish House Lane Tel: 01539 720788 ndin g N Haverthwaite email: [email protected] Ulverston www.fld.org.uk Cumbria LA12 8PE Tel: 015395 31604 Photos copyright of Arnside and Silverdale AONB, RSPB, The National Trust, Forestry Commission, Natural England, www.naturalengland.org.uk Cumbria Wildlife Trust, The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire,

Manchester and North Merseyside and Friends of the 11k Print. by Calder by the Arnside and Silverdale AONB Unit March 2009. Designed by Capra Design. Printed Published Lake District.

This leaflet has been funded by:

Bentham Arnside Area of SilverdaleOutstandingYealand MorecambeNatural Beauty Bay Warton

River Kent

Printed on paper from a sustainable source Welcome to Arnside and Silverdale Area The AONB is managed by a partnership of ● provides information about the AONB of Outstanding Natural Beauty! local district, county and parish councils, and how to enjoy it This is one of England’s finest landscapes. AONBs were created by the National government agencies, landowners and ● bids for funding and resources The area is recognised for its extraordinary Parks and Access to the Countryside voluntary organisations who work to ● provides landscape related planning diversity of habitats, and of plants, birds Act of 1949, which established how the conserve and enhance the natural and advice countryside could be protected and cultural heritage of the area. and butterflies. The stunning limestone ● monitors the condition of the AONB pavements, ancient woodlands, intimate enjoyed by future generations. The Act Representatives from these groups sit on landscape paved the way for the creation of today’s the AONB Executive Committee which meadows, rich wetlands and ● works with local communities in a 14 UK National Parks, 49 AONBs, 294 guides and supports the work of the impressive coastline as well variety of different ways as welcoming communities National Nature Reserves and 2900 AONB Unit. ● offers opportunities to volunteer and an intriguing history all miles of National Trails. The AONB Unit: ● distributes grants through the contribute to making this area So 2009 is a joint anniversary, a Diamond ● takes action to conserve and enhance unique. Sustainable Development Fund Jubilee, celebrating 60 years of protected the special qualities of the AONB and much more! countryside, our Diamonds in the ● works with others to produce, monitor In recognition of its special qualities Contact us on 01524 761034 or at Landscape! and support the implementation of the the area is designated as an Area of [email protected] or For more information about other AONB Management Plan Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), call in to the Old Station Building at Arnside AONBs across the UK go to ● which means that it is nationally protected advises local authorities and other Station. More information is available at www.aonb.org.uk or and should be conserved and enhanced. partners on their activities within the www.arnsidesilverdaleaonb.org.uk www.diamondsinthelandscape.org.uk AONB

● The AONB has formed on bedrock of ● The AONB is home to over half ● pioneered the Did you know? Carboniferous Limestone, deposited the flowering plant species of the production of tarmacadam between 325 - 340 million years ago. British Isles ● The area is criss-crossed by over ● The parishes of Warton, the Yealands, ● The Bittern, featured in the area’s logo, ● Internationally important populations of 120km of footpaths and bridleways , Arnside and Silverdale is one of Britain’s rarest birds waders and wildfowl flock to the AONB are all within the AONB. ● Leighton Moss, home of the Bittern, is either to spend the winter or to breed in the biggest reedbed in the North West spring and summer

Bittern. © David Mower Black tailed-godwit © David Mower Volunteering Get involved with caring for the AONB.

Collectively volunteers contribute You can get involved in We are particularly looking for people thousands of hours of time, making a many different ways: who would like to take on a little bit real difference to the conservation and more responsibility to act as volunteer ● AONB hedgerow survey leaders or coordinators. So if you are up enhancement of the landscape and ● Breeding bird and other for a challenge, please get in touch! helping to keep it special for future biodiversity surveys Or maybe you have a particular skill or generations. ● Regularly checking footpaths expertise that you think may be useful to By working as a volunteer, you will and conservation sites the AONB Unit or have a specific project gain satisfaction from knowing you in mind? ● are making a difference, whilst meeting Office administration If you are interested in volunteering other like-minded people, sharing ● Organisation and running of big with the AONB Unit please contact us experience and learning new skills. and small events on 01524 761034 or at Getting into the countryside is recognised ● Working with schools and [email protected]. as a natural way to a healthier lifestyle, community groups Our monthly volunteers’ newsletter both physically and mentally. A recent ● Writing articles and producing Waymarker contains details of report commissioned by the RSPB stresses information about the AONB volunteering opportunities in the that moderate exercise, including walking area. Download a copy from and nature conservation activities, can ● Practical conservation tasks (places www.arnsidesilverdaleaonb.org.uk help to prevent heart disease, strokes, strictly limited due to health and depression and sleep problems. safety reasons)

Other organisations in the AONB offering volunteering opportunities locally include: Natural England - www.naturalengland.org.uk The AONB Landscape Trust - www.arnsidesilverdaleaonb.org.uk The Wildlife Trusts - www.wildlifetrusts.org The National Trust - www.nationaltrust.org.uk The Woodland Trust - www.woodlandtrust.org.uk The RSPB - www.rspb.org.uk Bay Partnership - www.morecambebay.org.uk Lancaster and District Conservation Volunteers - www.ldcv.org

4 5 Amphibians and Reptiles OPPOSITE: Coldwell Parrock Living amongst us in the AONB are a number of animals BELOW: Common Spotted Orchid rarely seen so that BOTTOM: Time for lunch! when we spot BOTTOM RIGHT: Treble-bar moth them they are a delightful discovery.

Common Toad Bentham The Landscape Trust Arnside

SilverdaleArea of Yealand The Arnside and Silverdale Landscape Trust is a Outstanding Morecambe Natural Beauty Bay charity that supports the work of the statutory bodies Warton Of all the animals that live in and other organisations within the AONB. We have the AONB the reptiles and a membership of about 800 people and own two amphibians are amongst the Young Slow-worm Common Frog reserves, Teddy Heights and Coldwell Parrock. least recorded of species although some residents will know them from their In the past there have been records for gardens. Certainly the common frog and grass snake but apparently no adder has common toad can be readily found, as been noted. Both these species can be Our activities are varied, the conservation value and can the common (viviparous) lizard. Many more readily found across the estuary. from consulting on planning natural beauty of the area. will find the legless lizard, the slow-worm, The Natterjack toad lives further to the and development to Over the last year we have around the AONB especially basking on south and west of the area but there is surveying rare butterflies. supported the Greenwood a warm day on rocky ground and on no colony recorded nearby. garden compost heaps. Lizards are We have regular lectures, Fair, a project building and So whilst we have a reasonable proportion almost guaranteed on a warm day guided walks and social siting owl boxes, two new of the amphibians and reptiles found in on the boardwalk by Haweswater. activities and our journal, benches in Beetham Parish the country we have very few records - but Keer to Kent, is available in and some notice boards on We have we do need to know more about these many outlets in the area. Coldwell Parrock. records of enigmatic creatures in the AONB. Some We are always keen to hear all three newt work is being undertaken on from people who would like species in Local Nature Reserve to find more about to join us. and around the reptile population. We have an annual budget the area with of approximately £4,000 to Common Lizard the protected great crested give as grants to support Please send any sightings, with grid newt (perhaps at one site only) being the projects by individuals and references and dates, to the AONB most colourful and largest of the three groups which will enhance office or to [email protected] species. The palmate newt (look for the (tel 015395 60702). hair-like end to the tail) and the smooth We will pass them on to the local For more information please (or common) newt are smaller than the recorder and hopefully we can get in touch with us via the great crested and are often best seen in build up a picture of where these Station Building in Arnside, or the Landscape Trust link late afternoon at the edge of pools, delightful animals live within on the AONB website at www.arnsidesilverdaleaonb.org.uk or later by torchlight, in Spring. the area.

6 7 OPPOSITE: Woodland Walk

BELOW: Badgers make their home in Just Stop it! the wooded areas of Hutton Roof Crags. ● Take your litter home or put it in BOTTOM: Hart’s tongue is one of 24 a bin. Simple! ferns that have been recorded at Grubbins Wood. ● Litter is an eyesore, especially in the natural landscape of our AONB. ● Litter is a serious hazard for wildlife. It can harm, kill and Cumbria WildlifeTrust spread disease. Cumbria Wildlife Trust is devoted to the conservation of ● If you own a dog, you are the wildlife and wildplaces of Cumbria. The Trust stands responsible for removing its dog up for wildlife, creates wildlife havens, and seeks to raise waste. Don’t allow your dog environmental awareness. waste to be a health hazard. ● Recycle materials. Help the wider environment. Use the recycling collection schemes or Recycling The Trust has two nature reserves in Centre (on the A6 near Carnforth). the AONB area with a third, Hutton Roof Crags, lying just outside. These nature reserves cover a wide variety of habitats from woodland at Grubbins Wood, to raised mire at Hale Moss, and limestone pavement at Hutton Roof Crags. Each habitat supports and protects an extensive range of flora and fauna.

Volunteers are a vital part of the Trust’s work, maintaining walls and hedges, or clearing scrubland, the roles are varied.

Looking out across the limestone pavement at Hutton Roof Crags.

Detailed information about the nature reserves and the wildlife they support can be found on our website PLEASE HELP KEEP THE AONB TIDY! at www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk. Or contact us directly on 01539 816300.

8 9 OPPOSITE: OPPOSITE: Angular Solomon’s-seal Dry stone walling competitors.

BELOW: High Brown Fritillary BELOW: Coppicing hazel. BOTTOM: Early thorn moth BOTTOM: BOTTOM RIGHT: The first conservation grazing Limestone pavement apprentice, Ruth Dalton, with some Galloway Cross cattle.

Natural England Friends of the Lake District Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve Friends of the Lake District do more than just work within the Natural England is responsible for ensuring that England’s Lake District. We also represent the Campaign to Protect countryside, with its rich variety of landscapes, geology Rural England throughout Cumbria, including in the AONB. and wildlife, is cared for in the best way to ensure it Here are some examples of our recent work here. continues to give pleasure to all in the future.

Gait Barrows National butterflies as High Brown Our work with the AONB September which Nature Reserve is one of Fritillary and Duke of unit and United Utilities to celebrated woodlands and many NNRs that Natural Burgundy. remove overhead wires woodworking skills in the England manage across the from the landscape will AONB. In 2009 we are Gait Barrows is easily country, and it lies at the see a second line go holding our annual dry accessible with three way heart of the Arnside and underground in 2009. stone walling competition marked nature trails for Silverdale AONB. Our environmental grant at Arnside Tower Farm walkers through the site scheme supported several and will be supporting the Gait Barrows contains a and many of these paths projects, including a hedge laying competition wide variety of wildlife-rich are also suitable for users conservation apprenticeship later in the year. landscapes which support of the more robust type scheme to train farmers in If you believe, like we a large number of exciting of wheelchair! grazing skills to prevent do, that our countryside is and often rare creatures and the growth of scrub in worth protecting then why plants. It is one of the best limestone rich grassland, not join us? Membership places in England to look for enhancing diversity. starts from £15. butterflies and moths and, Our grants also funded at the appropriate times of coppicing work to maintain the year, visitors can easily the habitat for the High experience such rare Brown Fritillary butterfly, and supported the There are a number of Greenwood Fair in fascinating events planned at Gait Barrows NNR for 2009, and places on these can be For more information phone booked by phoning 015395 31604.These are all free of charge. 01539 720788 or visit www.fld.org.uk

10 11 Hedgerows Hedgerows are part of our cultural heritage and history. They are important for wildlife and are characteristic features in the landscape, as well as being vitally important for agriculture. Many hedgerows in the AONB are flail-cut every year or have fallen into disrepair, becoming less functional as stock-proof boundaries and of less value to wildlife. A new project to survey and restore traditional hedgerows in the AONB will start in April 2009 as part of the AONB’s role to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area. The project aims to train The project aims to carry out a programme We hope that by promoting traditional a team of volunteers to of restoration work and training in hedge hedge laying in the local Westmorland survey hedgerows around laying, replanting and protective fencing. style that farmers and land owners will the AONB to map and The AONB wants to support and promote be encouraged to maintain or adopt assess the condition of the traditional hedging skills and craft of similar good practice in hedgerow hedgerows. This will depend the Lancashire and Westmorland Hedging management in the future. upon the goodwill and Association by identifying locations and If you are interested in becoming a permission from many lengths of hedgerow that can be laid for survey volunteer or getting involved in land owners to allow us annual hedging competitions within the hedgerow restoration, or you have a to carry out the assessment. AONB. It is hoped that a 200m length hedgerow that you think may be suitable Using the results of the survey of standing hedge can be identified as a either for restoration or laying as part of we will be able to identify lengths suitable venue for the next Hedging a competition, please contact the AONB of derelict hedgerow across the area. Competition planned for November 2009. office at Arnside.

For more information about hedgerows and their conservation visit www.hedgelink.org.uk

12 13 OPPOSITE: Rotational scrub Conservation Action clearing is undertaken to maintain the extent of limestone All the thousands of reeds grassland, as well as to promote we have planted over the the growth of violets, the larval foodplant of the Fritillary last few years in Barrow butterflies, in the partially Scout field are really cleared areas. taking hold and spreading. BELOW: Small Pearl-bordered It won’t be long now until Fritillary nectaring on thistle it is suitable for bitterns! BOTTOM: West Field – Warton It is already attracting Barrow Scouts Field at Young Bittern Crag overlooking large numbers of wildfowl. RSPB Leighton Moss © Ben Hall rspb-images.com at Leighton Moss © Joe Hagen

The Wildlife Trust RSPB Leighton Moss Nature Reserve for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside The RSPB look after a number of important sites within a million The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North the AONB with nationally and internationally important voices for Merseyside is a charity-based organisation with one thing wildlife, including Leighton Moss nature reserve, the on its mind, protecting wildlife for the future. We manage largest remaining reedbed in north-west England nature over 2,000 acres of some of the region’s most precious wild places which is well known for its special birds and is home in the form of 34 nature reserves, places where wildlife can thrive. to the bittern.

Within the AONB, the Trust We run a number of events manages part of Warton as well as regular working Crag, with our reserve parties on the Crag including fine examples throughout the year. If you of limestone grassland would like to come along or and pavement. The diverse get involved, please contact mosaic of grassland, scrub the reserves officer on and bracken in the more 01524 855030 or check Big Schools Birdwatch Goldfinch open areas, is not only of our website for details © David McHugh rspb-images.com © Andy Hay rspb-images.com Cyclists© Ben Hall rspb-images.com high botanical interest it is www.lancswt.org.uk also extremely important Education Looking after garden birds Visit us in a sustainable way for butterflies, namely During the ‘Big Schools Support your local Why not visit us by bike or on Pearl-bordered, Small Birdwatch’ in January conservation charity and the Silverdale Shuttle? Pearl-bordered, and High our education team buy your bird food in the You will get free entry to the Brown Fritillaries, along visited 5 schools within Leighton Moss shop. nature trails (normally £4.50 with Northern Brown Argus. the AONB and inspired for adults for non-members) the children to watch as well as 10% discount in and count the birds in the tearoom. their play ground.

Light grazing in summer and winter has been introduced to encourage a The RSPB speaks out for birds and wildlife, tackling the problems that threaten our more varied flora and reduce the vigour of Bracken by trampling. environment. Nature is amazing - help us keep it that way.

14 15 Coastal/saltmarsh 6 Bearded tits (or reedlings) live in the 1 reedbeds all year round, although the best The avocet is the emblem of the RSPB time to see them is in Autumn when they and has bred at Leighton Moss since pick up grit from special tables on the 2001. They visit during spring and causeway. summer. 7 2 Marsh harriers arrive back in March Greenshanks are one of our wading where they begin displaying above the birds that are passage migrants. reedbeds. They are amazing to watch 3 Large flocks of black-tailed godwits passing food to each other in flight or stop off on their way to Iceland. Some stay hunting for their young. all year round now. 8 Huge flocks of starlings wheel above 4 Flocks of wigeon graze the saltmarsh in the reedbed before pouring into the reeds the winter and the males make a loud to roost in Autumn and early winter. whistling ‘whee-oo’ call. 9 Sedge warblers are one of our Reedbed summer-visiting birds that fill the reedbed with their rattling calls. 5 Bitterns live all year round in the j reedbeds. Between February and June the Water rail. A secretive bird that can be male can be heard ‘booming’ from the seen emerging to feed on the edge of the Birds causeway. Best seen during cold spells in channels and the pools, especially when when to see them the winter or between May or June if it’s icy or in late summer when there is feeding flights are visible. more mud. They have a strange call that There are many different is said to sound like a squealing pig! species of birds at Leighton Moss throughout the year. SPRING SUMMER AUTUMN WINTER 1 Avocet Here is a guide to some of the 2 Greenshank bird highlights and when to see 3 Black-tailed godwit them. The birds of the saltmarsh, 4 Wigeon near Morecambe Bay, can be best 5 Bittern seen from the Allen and Eric 6 Morecambe hides. Bearded tit 7 Marsh harrier For more detailed information please 8 Starling see our website www.rspb.org.uk or 9 Sedge warbler ask in the visitor centre at the reserve. j Water rail

Curlew © Margaret Breaks Depicts the best time to see these birds

Bearded Tit © Margaret Breaks Oyster catcher © David Mower Bullfinch © North East Wildlife Marsh Harrier © Peter Smith Wren © North East Wildlife Nuthatch © Simon Hawtin

16 17 The National Trust owns and cares for some of the The National Trust AONB’s most stunning landscape. Each site has its own character and special features to be discovered by the discerning visitor.

1 Take a walk up and 7If yellow is your colour visit the enjoy its amazing views, with the cowslip field, Heathwaite in the bonus of rare and spectacular first two weeks of May. butterflies in summer 18

Arnside Knott view from Lawson seat

2 Explore the maze of paths in Eaves Wood. Can you find 1 the mysterious Beech Circle?

Eaves Wood

3 Wind your way through 7 the woods to the hidden hayfield of Lamberts meadow where ragged robin blooms and dragonflies whirr. 2 6Follow the footpath across The Lots - part of the working National Trust farm at Bank House - admiring the orchids near the path in May.

3 Lamberts Meadow 6

4 See the amazing

19 ant hills on the top of Heald Brow, the original solar- 4 powered homes.

5Enjoy the varied bird song on Jack Scout and savour the splendid sunset over Morecambe 5 Bay from this clifftop jewel. Heald Brow Ant Hills

View from The Lots

See Events list for details of National Trust guided events May - August. For further information, contact 01524 702815/701178. . . “DAWN CHORUS AT JUNE SILVERDALE “HUNTING SILVERDALE GAIT BARROWS PAINTING GROUP FOR THE BLOMER’S” HORTICULTURAL & AND HAWES WATER” LANDSCAPE TRUST AGM Annual Exhibition in Join us in the hunt for scarce GARDENING SOCIETY Make an early start and Heron Theatre, Beetham association with Silverdale and moths like Blomer’s Rivulet, 2009 Open Show Events experience the wonder of the Talk by Rebecca Oaks, local Arnside Arts & Crafts Trail. Sloe Pug, Marsh Pug and lots Gaskell Hall, Silverdale APRIL-NOVEMBER woodland and wetland dawn coppice merchant Gaskell Hall, Silverdale of other exciting moths Sat September 5, 2 - 4.30pm events 2009 events events 2009 2009 events choruses. Leader: Dr Jim Fri June 5, 7.30pm June 26, 27, 28 Leader: Rob Petley-Jones. Admission 50p adult . . APRIL Fowler. Meet at Gait Barrows Arnside/Silverdale Landscape Trust 10am – 8pm (Fri) Meet at Gait Barrows NNR car “A CUMBRIAN RAMBLE – ARNSIDE VILLAGE MARKET NNR car park SD478776 10am – 5pm (Sat & Sun) park SD478776 Sat May 9, 4am-7am ARNSIDE VILLAGE MARKET Free entry. Refreshments Sat July 25, 9.30pm till late IN SEARCH OF ORCHIDS” Arnside WI Hall Arnside WI Hall with Maurice Steele Sat April 11, 10am-4pm BE - 015395 31604 available. BE - 015395 31604 Natural England Sat June 20, 10am-4pm Natural England Warton Village Hall Arnside Parish Plan Trust Arnside Parish Plan Trust JULY Wed September 9, 7.45pm PLANTS FOR ARNSIDE “WARTON Warton Gardening Club HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY “NATURE’S HISTORY WALKABOUT” THE SMALLER GARDEN “SPINNING TALES events 2009 events events 2009 2009 events with Peter Foley Coffee morning and plant MEDICINE CABINET” with blue badge guide Discover the wonderful OF SPIDERS” . . sale. Arnside WI Hall, Janet Nelson. Meet outside Warton Village Hall Speaker: Wed April 15, 7.45pm Orchard Road medicinal properties of our the George Washington pub woodland plants. Dr Jennifer Newton MBE Warton Gardening Club Sat May 9, 9.45am Sat July 25, 1.30pm – 3pm Leader: Sarah Atkinson. BE via AONB Office Yealand Village Hall LANDSCAPE TRUST Meet at Gait Barrows NNR 01524 761034 Thurs September 10, 7.45pm Arnside/Silverdale Landscape Trust OPEN DAY work base SD483774 Arnside/Silverdale Landscape Trust at the Arnside Cemetery Wed July 1, 10.30am-1.30pm AONB OPEN OFFICE Chapel. Coffee/tea, displays, BE - 015395 31604 AUGUST Interested in volunteering? events 2009 events events 2009 2009 events Trust goods, plants and Natural England Come and meet the AONB “SALTWATER ECOLOGY” GARDENING . . giveaways staff, enjoy a cup of tea or Walk and talk led by Dr “DWARF TREES IN SUMMER” ASSOCIATION Sat April 25, 10am-4pm Wall Brown coffee and find out more Caroline Langdon Learn how to identify our dwarf Annual Show. Arnside/Silverdale Landscape Trust about the many ways in “SPRING BUTTERFLIES OF Meet at New Barns (Arnside) trees in their summer form. Storth Village Hall which you can help. THE LIMESTONE COUNTRY” shore car park (SD443778) Leader: Rob Petley-Jones. Sun August 16, MAY AONB office, Old Station A walk round the woodland Bring packed lunch Meet at Gait Barrows NNR 2.15pm – 4.15pm Building, Arnside “LOTS OF ORCHIDS” glades and limestone Sat June 27, 11am – 3pm work base SD483774 “TREE-MENDOUS TREE-TS” Fri September 11,10am - A chance to admire and grasslands looking for Duke BE via AONB Office Thurs July 9, 1pm - 4pm learn about these spectacular Eaves Wood contains many 12.30pm events 2009 events events 2009 2009 events of Burgundy. Leader: Laura 01524 761034 BE - 015395 31604 wild flowers and their special Sivell. Meet at Gait Barrows Natural England special intriguing trees and . . Arnside/Silverdale Landscape Trust “SILVERDALE – POEMS OF A habitat on the Lots, Silverdale. NNR work base SD483774 hidden places. A 2km walk REMEMBERED CHILDHOOD” Drop in any time between Wed May 13, 1pm-4pm “GLOW WORMS, BATS AND “AN ERRATIC WALK (some sloping paths). Tree A sociable evening listening to 11am and 4pm. Access on BE - 015395 31604 CREATURES OF THE NIGHT” AROUND THE KNOTT” Identification/folklore and fun. Peter Lewin read from his own the footpath from Shore Road Natural England A 2km walk at dusk to look for A 4km walk exploring the Come and find the monkeys SD460749 the nocturnal creatures which geology, glacial features and face ! Meet in car park (grid book, Silverdale Hotel, Sun May 3, 11am – 4pm WARTON can usually be found at this wildlife on this dramatic site at ref: SD 471759). Silverdale National Trust GARDENING CLUB AGM time of year. Some uneven the peak time for butterflies. Sun August 23, 1.30 - 4.30pm Fri September 25, 7.30pm Warton Village Hall ground – please bring a torch. National Trust Arnside/Silverdale Landscape Trust

Some steep and uneven 2009 events events 2009 2009 events Wed May 13, 7.45pm Meet in Arnside Knott ground. Meet in Arnside Knott . . car park (SD450774) Warton Gardening Club car park (SD450774) ARNSIDE Sat June 27, HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY COFFEE MORNING 9.30 pm – 11.30pm Sun July 12, 1pm - 4pm National Trust Annual Show. WI Hall, BE - AND PLANT SWAP National Trust Orchard Rd Village Church, Storth Booking SILVERDALE AND ARNSIDE “FRITILLARIES BONANZA” Sat August 29, 2pm Essential Sat May 23, 10am-12pm A walk through the woodland Storth Gardening Association ARTS & CRAFTS TRAIL Open studios, exhibitions glades and limestone SEPTEMBER grasslands looking for National Trust Events events 2009 events events 2009 2009 events ARNSIDE ART EXHIBITION and workshops. Catalogues ARNSIDE VILLAGE MARKET NO NEED TO BOOK Fly Orchid Arnside Art Group invite you available from Silverdale & High Brown fritillaries. . . Leader: Laura Sivell. Meet at Arnside WI Hall A donation of £2 per adult to their annual exhibition at Arnside Newsagents in June. Sat September 5, 10am-4pm “CLIMATE RECORD IN Gait Barrows NNR work base will be requested at the start the WI Hall, Orchard Rd. Vintage bus service around Arnside Parish Plan Trust of the walk (children free.) HAWES WATER SEDIMENT” Admission free. SD483774 Speaker:Professor Jim Marshall Silverdale Art Venues. Please let us know if you Refreshments available. June 26, 27, 28, Wed July 15, 1pm-4pm Warton Village Hall BE - 015395 31604 have specific needs. Wed May 6, 8pm May 23 – May 30 5pm – 8pm (Fri) Natural England Arnside/Silverdale Landscape Trust 10am-5pm daily 11am – 5pm (Sat & Sun) events 2009 events events 2009 2009 events 20 21 . . OCTOBER “A YEAR AT CASTLE GREEN” AFTERNOON ‘TWEETS’: WARTON CRAG WALK with Kevin Preston Seasonal fun activities to entertain the family Saturday 9 May, 9am - 12 noon Warton Village Hall RSPB will be on-going throughout the afternoon Tel: Jill Blackburn for more information Wed October 14, 7.45pm for families to ‘drop-in’ (from 1 – 4 pm), on 01524 733639. Warton Gardening Club Events including a short walk along our nature trails FAMILY EVENTS (at 2 and 3 pm) Cost: £2 (£1 members) per SILVERDALE AND ARNSIDE ART events 2009 2009 events COFFEE MORNING participating adult or child joining in the fun. AND CRAFT TRAIL

AT RSPB LEIGHTON MOSS 2009 events

. Gaskell Hall, Silverdale Children must be accompanied by an adult. Fri 26 June, Sat 27 and Sun 28, NATURE RESERVE Sat October 17, 10am-12 noon Wed 8 and 15 April: Easter fun! 11am - 5 pm Fri, 5pm - 8 pm Sat & Sun . Arnside/Silverdale Landscape Trust FAMILY GUIDED WALKS. Wed 27 May: enviro-tiles Open Studios, exhibitions, workshops and Unless otherwise stated, run demonstrations in both these two beautiful VEGETABLES Wed 5 August: butterfly bonanza from 11 am–12.30 pm. AONB villages. For further information, FOR EVERY TASTE Wed 12 August: darting dragonflies No need to book. Cost: RSPB please see www.silverdalearttrail.co.uk. Speaker: Margaret Robinson Wed 19 August: reeds and rubbish members: adults £2, children Wed 28 October: touchy-feely fun Free event. Village Church, Storth £1, family £4, non-members: events 2009 2009 events Thurs October 22, 7.30pm adults £4.50, children £2, ‘SUMMER WILDLIFE WARRIORS’ EVENTS LEIGHTON MOSS - A WILDLIFE HOTSPOT! events 2009 events . Storth Gardening Association family £9. are for young people aged 8 – 16 only Fri 31 July 7 - 9.30 pm Tues 7 and 14 April: and run from 10 am – 3.30 pm. Illustrated talk and then you can see for your- . “DWARF TREES IN WINTER” self on a relaxed guided walk to look for our Learn how to identify our the return of the marsh harrier Booking essential. Cost: £14 (£12 members). Tues 26 May: toasted herons summer wildlife. Booking essential. dwarf trees in their winter form. Tues 4 August - sunguardians Cost: RSPB members: adults £3, children £1, Leader: Rob Petley-Jones. Sat 6 and Sun 7 June: Tues 11 August - water watchers springwatch walk family £6, non-members: adults £5, children Meet at Gait Barrows NNR Tues 18 August - earth keepers £2, family £10. work base SD483774 DEER WATCH- Every events 2009 2009 events Fri October 30, 1pm - 4pm OTHER ADULT EVENTS: RSPB VOLUNTEERING TASTER EVENT

APPLE DAY Thursday evening in July and 2009 events . WEDNESDAY WALKABOUTS BE - 015395 31604 August: from 7.30 –9.30pm Sat 17 October 4.30 - 5.30 pm Free event.

Orchard Barn, . Natural England are guided walks that are run every week 32 Briery Bank, Arnside in July and 6.30 – 8.30pm in throughout the year. Unless otherwise stated GARDEN BIRD FOOD OFFERS Sat October 3, 10am - 4pm August NOVEMBER from 11 am – 1 pm. They are an ideal way to Sat 24 October, 9.30 - 5 pm Arnside and Silverdale AONB (or until dusk if you wish to look learn about the wonderful wildlife of Leighton for bats) Enjoy a relaxing guided “STORIES FROM Moss throughout the seasons. BOOK SALE walk for all the family to look for THE SHOWS” Cost: RSPB members: adults £2, Sat 14 and Sun 15 November 10 am - 4pm our red deer and other summer A light hearted look at life in non-members: adults £4.50. The popular second-hand book sale is being

events 2009 2009 events wildlife. the Horticultural World with held in our education room. Free entry to the

April: acrobatic harriers 2009 events . Bob Sanderson May: booming bitterns (7.30 pm to dusk) book sale. FAMILY ACTIVITY DAYS: . Warton Village Hall June: parenting delights These events are fun, CHRISTMAS MEAL AND SHOPPING Wed November 11, 7.45pm inspirational and educational July: mischievous marsh harriers Warton Gardening Club August: summer nature Tues 8 December 7 - 9.30 pm for all the family. Choose from Booking essential. 1–2.30pm or 3-4.30pm. All September: arrivals and departures Common Lizard “WESTMORLAND October: bearded tits (8.30 – 10.30 am) Cost: £17 (RSPB members £15). SOUTH OF THE KENT” materials are provided. Booking essential. These events are November: spectacular starlings End of season social evening (2.30 – 4.30pm or dusk if earlier) LEIGHTON MOSS CALENDAR – events 2009 2009 events and talk. Speaker: Rod Ireland recommended for children FROM SPRING TO WINTER December: winter wonderland 2009 events

. over 5 yrs and they must be Please bring contribution to Sat 12 and Sun 13 December, 10 am - 5 pm accompanied by an adult . Jacob’s Join meal BINOCULARS AND TELESCOPES An exhibition in our education room of the (adults free). Unless otherwise Yealand Village Hall DEMONSTRATIONS 10 - 4 pm work of wildlife artist Marianne Birkby, as a stated cost: £3.50 per child An opportunity to try out binoculars, Thurs November 12, 7.15pm journey through a year at Leighton Moss. (RSPB Wildlife Explorer telescopes and digi-scoping and receive Free entry to exhibition. Arnside/Silverdale Landscape Trust members £2.50). impartial advice. Free admission to the demonstration. ARNSIDE Thurs 9 April: minibeast safari Female Slow-worm CHRISTMAS MARKET 2 & 13 April, 9 & 10 May, 20 & 21 June,

events 2009 2009 events Thur 16 April and Thurs 8 & 9 August, 5 & 6 Sept, 17 & 18 Oct, Arnside WI Hall 28 May: ponddipping 2009 events . “LOCAL AMPHIBIANS Sat November 28, 5 & 6 Dec.

Thurs 6 August: . AND REPTILES” 10am - 4pm flying insect safari Speaker: Tony Marshall MIEEM Arnside Parish Plan Trust Thurs 13 August: pond dipping ‘MADE IN CUMBRIA’ EASTER CRAFT FAIR Yealand Village Hall Thurs 20 August: eARTh Sun 12 and Mon 13 April,10am - 4pm Thurs October 8, 7.45pm Sat 24 October: feed the birds! Treat yourself to the best in Cumbrian crafts Arnside/Silverdale Landscape Trust Thurs 29 October: ponddipping and gifts at the ‘Made in Cumbria’ market. Leighton Moss Free event.

events 2009 2009 events 23 22 events 2009 events The North Lancashire Support Group of the Lancashire Wildlife Trust are planning an atlas for the distribution of these insects Dragonflies in the next few years. in the Arnside and Silverdale AONB Please record all sightings you make and let the AONB Office know of the species identified, approximate numbers and date Over the last few summers the variety along with the specific location. Your help of dragonflies moving into the AONB in building up a better understanding of Common Blue Damsel and surrounding area has increased where we find these creatures in and around notably. Those with garden ponds will the AONB will be most helpful. have observed these magnificent and attractive species. Despite the low Species found and typical flight periods: proportion of water bodies in our Damselflies May June July Aug Sept Oct AONB we have a variety of damsel Banded Demoiselle (+) and dragonflies that is most appealing. Emerald Damsel Dragonflies spend most of their lives as Azure Damsel larva in water and one species lives for five years before it emerges for a month Common Blue Damsel or so as a flying adult. These colourful Blue-tailed Damsel creatures can be seen in a variety of habitats throughout the AONB. Large Red Damsel Ruddy Darter For some, the nearby former gravel Dragonflies pits or the canal will have been their breeding sites. Elsewhere in the district Southern Hawker at sites like other species Brown Hawker have established that have not yet moved into the AONB. Common Hawker Migrant Hawker The enhancement of our number of species might be attributable to Emperor global warming. The flight period of Broad-bodied Chaser the different species is normally from May to the end of October but in 2007 Four-spot Chaser some were seen at the end of April and Black-tailed Skimmer (*) in early November. Black Darter www.dragonflysoc.org.uk Red-veined Darter (*) www.lakelandwildlife.co.uk Ruddy Darter (*) Most likely flight periods TheCommon months Darter shown in orange are the most likely flight periods – they may be 2 or 3 weeks earlier or extend as much beyond the period shown depending on the weather, particularly temperature. Some species numbers will depend on whether or not there is a migration to this area from the continent or other parts of the country. From time to time other species have shown up in the area. (+) This species is found on the canal and some north Lancashire rivers. It may have moved into south Cumbria and potentially could move into the AONB. (*) These three species are found at Middleton, Heysham and could potentially extend their range Migrant Hawker Emerald Damselfly northwards. At least one has been seen in the AONB.

24 25 FloweringTimes The table shows the main flowering period of each orchid. Orchids APRIL MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT OCT British native orchids are fascinating plants. Of the 50 orchids 1 Lady’s-slipper that grow wild in Britain, 14 can be found in this AONB. 2 Dark-red Helleborine Orchids can appear numerous in certain places, where their 3Broad-leaved Helleborine all-important habitat has survived. Thankfully this AONB, unlike many other parts of the country, has remained a refuge 4Bird’s-nest Orchid for them, with unimproved limestone grassland, native woodland 5 Common Twayblade and coppice habitats as well as the more unusual habitat of 6 the disturbed ground of disused quarries. Autumn Lady’s-tresses A crucial and fragile aspect of orchid survival is the germination 7 Greater Butterfly-orchid of their tiny, microscopic seed. The seeds are produced in vast 8 Lesser Butterfly-orchid quantities by each flower and being so tiny can be blown and 9 carried far distances in the wind to aid dispersal of the plants. Fragrant Orchid The few seeds that chance to fall on favourable ground and j Common Spotted-orchid habitat then need crucial assistance from mycorrhizal k Northern Marsh-orchid fungus. The seeds are so tiny they do not contain the food for energy to begin germinating. l Early-purple Orchid It is the mycorrhizal fungus that breaks the seed case m Green-winged Orchid and begins providing food for the new orchid plant. n Fly Orchid Without this the orchid seed will not germinate or begin to grow. 3Broad-leaved Helleborine

j Common Spotted-orchid

2 Dark-red Helleborine 1 Lady’s-slipper n Fly Orchid

Look out for orchids on Arnside Knott, Gait Barrows National Nature Reserve, Trowbarrow and Warton Crag Local Nature Reserves and other remnant unimproved grasslands in the AONB. 8 Lesser Butterfly-orchid k Northern Marsh-orchid 5 Common Twayblade l Early-purple Orchid

26 27 Possible Flight time of Butterflies Main Flight time Possible Flight time Occasional Flight time in Arnside and Silverdale AONB (C) Common in AONB (R) Rare in AONB (L) Locally common/Rare elsewhere (M) Migrant (in order of emergence) Jan Feb March April May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

Painted Lady Brimstone (C) Buckthorn

Small Tortoiseshell (C) Nettles

Peacock (C) Nettles

Comma (C) Nettles/Elm

Red Admiral (C) Nettles

Speckled Wood (C) Cocksfoot/Couch grass Duke of Burgundy Holly Blue (C) Holly/Ivy/Dogwood/Spindle Small White (C) Brassicas

Peacock Green-Veined White (C) Crucifers Painted Lady (M) Thistles

Orange Tip (C) Garlic Mustard/Lady’s Smock

Large White (C) Brassicas

Green Hairstreak (L) Rockrose/Birdsfoot Trefoil

Small Copper (L) Sorrel

Wall Brown (L) Coarse grasses

Wall Brown Small Tortoise Shell Pearl-Bordered Fritillary (L) Violet Small Heath (L) Fescues/Bent grasses

Duke of Burgundy (R) Primulas

Common Blue (C) Birdsfoot Trefoil

Dingy Skipper (L) Birdsfoot Trefoil Small Skipper (L) Knapweed/trefoils

Small Pearl-Bord Fritillary (L) Violet

Large Skipper (L) Cocksfoot

Northern Brown Argus (L) Rockrose

Meadow Brown (C) Medium grasses

Dark Green Fritillary (L) Violet High Brown Fritillary (L) Violet

Brimstone Purple Hairstreak (L) Oak trees

Comma Grayling (L) Fine grasses

Gatekeeper (R) Fine/medium grasses

Scotch Argus (L) Purple/Blue Moor grass

Common Blue Clouded Yellow (M) Clover/vetches/trefoils

28 29 4 Returning down the opposite side of the quarry floor, take a right turn into the trees and walk beneath the pocketed ‘Red Wall’, popular with climbers. 5 This path brings you down to the floor once more by the giant boulder – the ‘shelter stone’ where in the 18 and early A walk through 1900’s, quarry workers would shelter from the explosive blasting of rock. Trowbarrow 6 The track to the right may delight you Easy walk, approx. 1 hour, some uneven ground with its summertime emerald tunnel where 1 spangled sunlight stars dance before your feet. Return via Limeworks Wood, the meandering, leafy path leads you through ash, sycamore, birch and yew, to name but 4 3 a few and is full of bird song. Pass between the 2 rock stoops to cross the track and turn left to amble along the path where stone filled trucks once rumbled, some 1 Ascend the steps from the lay-by on of the track sleepers may still be seen. 7 Storrs Lane, Silverdale and follow the 8 At the top, by the remains of the stone woodland path through the gate, keep building, turn right, a pretty woodland 5 right to the top gate. From here, the full corner opens out into herb rich grassland. North-South length of the old quarry floor 9 stretches away from below the information Keep right up the small steps and down 2 sign. over snakelike roots to the steel gate in the shape of a climbers karabiner. Pass 2 Trowbarrow’s deep memory reaches through into the clearly defined ‘trough’, back over 340 million years. As you a place of stillness and silence as though wander along the path to the right, fossils the very walls are listening to footsteps may be seen in the magnificent limestone passing through. cliffs, evidence of their ancient history. At the pointer sign, turn left through the 3 In late spring and early summer, fly wall and gate back into Storrs Lane Wood 6 orchids adorn the grassy hollows and an to return to the gate where your journey abundance of wild flowers scatter the began. ground around your feet as you make your way to the far end of the quarry. See Map on page 34 for location of 8 Trowbarrow Local Nature Reserve 7

THE SEASONS OF TROWBARROW 9 Springtime leaves breathing their first warmth of sunshine, 1Start The rich emerald greens of summer against a sky of azure blue, of route An autumn hue casts deep red shadows upon silver grey walls, In the winter snow, the footprints of a solitary fox passing through.

30 31 HM Coastguard

With regard to safety in Morecambe Bay, the golden rules are the same as elsewhere at sea or on the shore.

● Always tell someone exactly where you intend to go

● Always get to know the time of the tide and weather The Landscape Cookbook ● Be aware of how quickly the tide comes in. What are the connections between food, the Arnside and Silverdale Buy Local ● If possible, carry several types AONB, farming, landscape, food-miles, conservation grazing Buying locally produced food or crafts of communication. and sustainable development? has many benefits, both for consumers and producers. Buying local: Not only is it an unconventional cookbook that tempts your ❧ taste buds with the food grown and produced in the Helps to sustain the local economy Tide tables are available area, it is also a guide book that opens your eyes to ❧ Supports local communities from local outlets the wonders around you as it takes you into the ❧ Reduces food miles mysteries and special places of the AONB. © Natural England ❧ Ensures the least possible damage to The book highlights the benefits of thinking about the countryside we all value and enjoy where your food comes from, the values that underpin Why not begin by visiting the Village Markets its production and the role that farming plays in held in Arnside or support local artists and our lives – and even the role you can play in craftsmen by going along to the Silverdale farming come to that! and Arnside Arts and Crafts Trail in June The book is available from the AONB (see events pages for details). Farmers THE BORE office and other local outlets. £7.95 rrp Markets are held in on the When calculating the approximate (including CD with additional recipes) second Friday of time of the tidal bore at Arnside you www.conservationcookbook.co.uk each month. can use this simple formula: Add 1 hour to high tide for BST plus 20 minutes to give high tide at Arnside. Deduct 2 hours (plus or minus half an hour) for the estimated time of the appearance of the bore. No guarantee can be givenfor the strength and speed which vary enormously.

32 33 Orchard walks, apple identification, cakes and jams, cookery demonstrations, story-telling, children’s games and much more... Apple day

A6 Saturday 3rd October Organised by the Arnside and Silverdale AONB Partnership

A6 Orchard Barn, 32 Briery Bank, Arnside 10am - 4pm

Admission 50p (children free)