Walney Sandy Gap

Walney Sandy Gap, also known as Earnse Bay or West Shore, is a long sandy beach located on Walney Island, off the coast of the Furness peninsula in Cumbria, England.

Walney Island is situated just off the coast of the Furness peninsula and is joined to the mainland at Barrow-in-Furness by the Jubilee Bridge. The beach at Walney Sandy Gap is a wide expanse of sand and shingle, backed by an expanse of dunes forming a nature reserve to the north. The beach is shallow in profile, with a mainly shingle area for about thirty metres towards the sea, which levels and becomes sandy down to the sea.

The beach offers stunning panoramic views of the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man, and the Lake District mountains. However, these views have recently been interrupted by the construction of three large offshore wind farms: Barrow Offshore, Ormonde, and Walney. The beach is a popular destination for walkers, sunbathers, and kitesurfers, especially during the summer months. It is also home to the North West Kitesurfing surf school, catering to those interested in learning the sport.

The nearby North Walney Reserve, administered by the Cumbria Wildlife Trust, is home to many interesting species of plant and wildlife. The dunes, salt marshes, and grasslands support a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts. The area is also home to various wildlife, including migratory birds and seals.

The beach is adjacent to the Furness Golf Club, which is the sixth oldest golf course in England, and West Shore Park, a residential complex. Regular bus services connect Walney Sandy Gap to the surrounding areas, and it is accessible via Jubilee Bridge, linking it to Barrow on the mainland.

The far north of the beach, north of Earnsie Point, is an area of beach backed by dunes, which is used by naturists. The long walk from the car parking area and dunes offer some degree of privacy.

Sand

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