If you are looking for a classic seaside getaway, this little village is perfect12:34, 21 May 2026The Lake District has always drawn tourists from across the UK in their droves, but many remain unaware of the stunning spots they're passing by en route. One such gem is Arnside, a picturesque seaside village that technically sits within Cumbria, though it lies remarkably close to the Lancashire border.That gives you a sense of just how accessible it is — Reach's Emma Gill's journey there on a bright and breezy Sunday took little over an hour from Manchester. Like most daytrip hotspots, it tends to fill up as the day progresses, so Emma ensured an early arrival at around 9.30am and had no trouble securing a free parking spot along the seafront.There's also a free car park available, plus additional spaces further along towards Silverdale Road, reports the Manchester Evening News.'The front' refers to The Promenade, which boasts an array of shops and cafes, alongside a couple of pubs, not forgetting Arnside Chip Shop, which receives glowing reviews.With blustery yet sunny conditions, Emma was keen to make the most of the beach, which welcomes dogs throughout the year and proved ideal for letting her pooch run free and splash about in the water.Emma didn't quite reach the sea itself — it's too far round the bay — but Milo was absolutely in his element paddling through the estuary and retrieving sticks.There's an abundance of space here, and despite the eventual influx of visitors and vehicles, the beach felt wonderfully peaceful. A word of caution that this spot, which sits within Morecambe Bay, is notorious for its rapidly advancing tide, alongside quicksand and mudflats, so you'll need to stay alert.There is, apparently, an air raid-style siren that alerts beachgoers to clear off before the tidal surge rolls in.With plans to spend most of the day in Arnside, Emma stuck to the route recommended by relatives who pop over fairly regularly.Turning left along the beach, we wandered over to The Bob-In Cafe, located at New Barns Caravan Park but welcoming to all visitors.Famed for its generous breakfasts, homemade soups, cakes and sausage rolls, its breakfast barms and coffees gave us the fuel she needed for the day ahead, and the outdoor seating area proved the ideal place to pause.It's brilliant for families with young children too, as there's a secure play area featuring an impressive climbing frame and other kit for kids to enjoy, encircled by picnic benches for easy supervision.The children's menu is available throughout the day and kicks off at £4 for beans on toast, or you can grab a picnic box containing a sandwich, juice carton, crisps, raisins and a brownie for £6.50. Had Emma been feeling slightly more daring, she likely would have taken on Arnside Knott, a nearby hill providing a circular route and breathtaking coastal vistas.But with Milo adoring the sand so much, Emma opted to wander further along the beach and soak up the peace and quiet this spot provides, with magnificent views across to Grange-over-Sands.Eventually it was time to return to the village where things were somewhat less peaceful as scores of motorbikes rolled up on the front just as Emma got there.With a diversion to dodge the racket - the dog isn't keen on motorbikes - Emma found herself at the opposite end of The Promenade, close to the train station, which provides another route for visitors to reach here, with a journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Arnside taking just an hour and 20 minutes.Wandering through the streets, past the picturesque cottages and local primary school, Arnside National, it's simple to understand why this village was highlighted by The Times as one of Britain's finest coastal places to reside.The Times and Sunday Times have regularly listed it as one of the best UK places to live by the sea thanks to its 'magnificent' panoramic views of the Kent estuary and Cumbrian Fells, 'friendly' community, and 'outstanding' local scenery.‌In no hurry to leave Emma grabbed a drink at Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, securing a table with views across the sand, before popping to The Albion for a late lunch of fish and chips, which for £15.95, was worth every single penny.Naturally, no seaside trip is truly complete without an ice cream, so Emma made one last stop at The Coast Office, which has a small truck parked out the front selling cones and tubs of Wallings ice cream - with even more varieties on offer indoors.Taking a final wander along the beach while enjoying our delicious salted caramel popcorn flavoured ice creams, Emma found herself pondering why it's taken us this long to discover this spot and how many motorists pass by without even knowing it exists.Article continues belowEmma had be quite content to keep this little hidden treasure to herself, but she reckons it's high time Arnside received the recognition it deserves.