51, Carnforth to Silverdale

Journey Overview

Please do not make the start of your journey a Brief Encounter! Marvel at the vintage architecture of the beautiful Carnforth Railway Station which sits at the junction between London and Glasgow mainline stations and connects to Barrow-In-Furness and Morecambe.

The scenic joy of this enchanting journey will instantly titivate your senses as the bus meanders through stunning Lancashire countryside, surrounded by a back-drop patchwork fields and hills.  You will breeze through one jewel of a village after the other – the tranquility of Warton, the picturesque Yealand Redmayne and Yealand Conyers, all truly idyllic.

As you leave these beautiful idylls of the Lancaster district, the final glorious phase takes you to the enchanting Silverdale situated on Morecambe Bay and within the Arnside and Silverdale National Landscape. This vibrant village offers a smorgasbord of beauty and attraction from the expansive vistas of Morecambe Bay – featured on the ITV crime drama series ‘The Bay’ – to the birdwatching paradise of Leighton Moss.

If you are in need of a soul-enriching top up, this is the journey for you!

A Fab Day Out!

Before you even board the 51, please, please spend the morning indulging in the classic nostalgia of Carnforth Railway Station – lovingly restored and multi award-winning heritage centre! It not only shares the story of the making of the classic Brief Encounter film but celebrates the history and heritage of Carnforth and its community. You cannot, in conscience, leave without a cuppa and maybe a delicious scone or refreshment of your choice at the tearoom there. Revamped to resemble the film set where the lovers in the film first met, the Refreshment Room is an irresistible charm, open daily in summer months.

Refreshment will set you up for a day of walking amongst gorgeous countryside no matter where you alight! The first stop on the journey, Warton Croftlands, a peaceful spot known for its inviting walking trails where you can explore the tranquil paths lined with wildflowers and ancient hedgerows; just the ticket for a gentle rural ramble or spot of birdwatching.

The nostalgia doesn’t finish at Carnforth, as you encounter the picturesque village of Yealand Conyers – steeped in a feeling times gone by. Wander past charming stone cottages and the historic St. John’s Church, known for its beautiful stained glass. If you fancy a brief detour, the Village Hall often plays host to local craft markets and weekend events – perfect for snaffling lovely, locally-made and unique souvenirs.

The crowning glory of a wonderful day from start to finish is Silverdale – a haven for nature lovers and renowned for its flora and fauna and geological features.

Have a spot of lunch at the lovely Blossom Bird café before a hearty meander. You might fancy seeing one of the numerous springs and wells or a stroll along one of its limestone paths, bejewelled by beautiful woodland before revelling in the extraordinary panoramic views across Morecambe Bay to the Lakeland Fells.

If ever a bus journey should be prescribed for boosting wellbeing, this is it! Indeed, for true peace and meditation, head to Leighton Moss RSPB reserve where the rustling of a sea of reeds, best seen via the glorious Sky Tower viewing platform, or the sight of bird and dragonflies in flight at one of the hides are sure to soothe the soul!

Round off your breathtaking day with the nurture of a hearty meal at one of Silverdale’s three watering holes – the Albion, the Royal Silverdale or the Silverdale Hotel – all offering quality fayre and a friendly welcome, as  you savour your day.