Wide open spaces and plenty of fresh air was what was needed on Sunday and so we headed to the seaside.
We proceeded west out of Carlisle towards Silloth and then south to Allonby. We have been here a couple of times previously and were keen to catch up on old sniffs and go for a paddle.
Parking the car at the northern end of the village, next to a very large motor home, we then headed off along the grass path towards the sea.
As the two leggers discussed the pros and cons of getting a motor home, Charlie and I took full advantage of our new surroundings as we darted this was and that following scent trails.
A little way down the path we spotted that scaffolding still surrounds the former Quaker reading rooms.
Built in 1862, the restoration of this building has taken almost a decade to complete.
Designed by Alfred Waterhouse, the same architect who did work on the Natural History Museum in London, it is now being turned into a six bedroom private house.
Our walk was punctuated by dips in the sea and then the feeling of being very cold as we slowly air dried.
Silloth pagoda restored
Although the sun was clear in the sky, it was not producing enough heat for a true summer’s day. As a result many people still had thin coats on or thick fleeces to protect them from a cool breeze.
About two hours later we returned to the car and headed back towards Silloth. We had heard that the pagoda that sits on a vantage point overlooking the sea had been recently restored.
Parking alongside the RNLI building we were just in time to catch the licky ice cream lady in her little van. Perfect timing, as you should always have a ’99’ and a Mr Whippy at the seaside and today was not to be the exception.
Leads attached and toilet bag supplies restocked, we headed along the wide coastal path and up towards the bright blue restored pagoda.
Silloth Green improvements
Work began on improvements to Silloth Green back in October 2011. The project is supported by £1.1m from the Heritage Lottery Fund and £100,000 from the Rural Development Programme for England.
As we entered the pagoda through a big glass door you could still smell the new paint.
Since our last visit the pagoda has been totally rebuilt. New glass windows have been installed, bench seating replaced and it is now a great venue to watch the sea and promenade from.
The information boards inside showed photographs of all the work done and indicated that the official opening ceremony was held on 20 May, so less than a month ago.
Below us the old paddling pool has been replaced by a fantastic array of water related gadgets and fountains.
We watched from the path as a couple of children pressed buttons and stood on sensor pads to make the water flow.
Water sprays activated and tipping tubs filled as the whole area became a fantastic soggy play area.
At one point we even got sprayed as a big red water fountain was pointed in our direction.
As if by magic the water seemed to soak into the ground through the blue floor and not leave any puddles on the surface.
We both looked up at dad longingly as we would love this set up in our garden back at home.
Woodland play area
As our exploring continued we spotted, hidden in a woodland hollow, another new play area complete with park benches.
Fresh bark chips covered the approach paths whilst the location provided natural shade and a wind barrier.
Climbing frames and rope bridges completed the attraction.
As part of the overall works to Silloth Green, lighting has been improved , a putting green installed and new park furniture such as benches and litter bins have been strategically placed.
Wide, buggy and wheelchair friendly paths are now available to allow access across the area.
Well done to all of those involved and let us hope that vandals and ‘bored’ children do not damage this great resource for Silloth.
Heading back towards home, we briefly stopped in Newton Arlosh when dad spotted a new memorial tree on the roadside.
The English Oak tree, still with price tag and planting details affixed, stands a short distance back from the road near to the St John’s Church in the village.
In front is a carved wooden sign that reads ‘ Diamond Jubilee 1952-2012’.
Pictures taken, we return to the car and home with the promise of rice and meaty gravy for supper.
Until next time
Big licks
Buster and Charlie.