Picture of the month
January 2016
Leven Estuary from Birkrigg common
Comment:
Taken from the easterly dipping slope of Birkrigg Common, this photograph looks across the Leven estuary section of Morecambe Bay to the Cartmel peninsula on the opposite shore. In the estuary is Chapel Island, its west shore cliffs are clearly visible but they hide the distinctive easterly dip, shared with the mainland peninsulas, which is the primary topographical feature of this small limestone island. It is an island which once provided a safe haven for the stage-coaches and travellers of old when they braved a crossing of the sands and risked an unexpected encounter with the perilous fast flowing tides of this dangerous bay. On the opposite side of the estuary and just visible above the woods of the Holker Estate is Holker Hall, the family seat of the Cavendish family. The hall and surrounding estate are well presented attractions that are availed of by visitors from all over the world.