Silverdale & Arnside are pretty as a picture - and there’s an exhibition to prove it

Great British Life: A kingfisher at Allen Pool, Leighton MossA kingfisher at Allen Pool, Leighton Moss (Image: NOT Archant)

It’s without doubt one of the most photographed corners of the north west and, judging by these shots, it’s not difficult to understand why.

Great British Life: LAN Oct Arnside & SilverdaleLAN Oct Arnside & Silverdale (Image: NOT Archant)

Silverdale and Arnside straddle one of the borders between Lancashire and Westmorland and that creates a little friendly rivalry between these two picturesque communities.

But they come together this month to stage a joint photographic exhibition in the Gaskell Hall and the organisers hope it will encompass more than just the beauty of an inspiring coastline.

Organiser and parish council chairman Terry Bond said: ‘There is plenty to go at here for any photographer. The light is terrific. There are spots around this coast where you could come at the same time every day, take the same shot from the same position and each will look completely different.

The exhibition, containing some of the pictures on these pages, has five categories. ‘As well as the landscape, we hope pictures will reflect the people and the events along with the natural history, wildlife and the interesting buildings we have. We want it to be a reflection of what this area is all about.

‘This is also an opportunity to simply show your pictures without the stress of being involved in a competition. We have a lot of people of all abilities and they are all welcome. Some of the people here walk in the mountains to take pictures – I walk in the mountains and will occasionally take a photo,’ said Terry.

The two villages are steeped in history and this is reflected in many of the interesting buildings found here, such as the fishermen’s cottages at the beach which echo the industry of times past. The price tag on many of the properties here also bear witness to the fact it is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Of course, you don’t really need an excuse to visit this remarkable piece of our region but just in case you do, the Visions of Silverdale & Arnside exhibition is being stage at the Gaskell Hall, Silverdale, October 19 & 20.