The coastal village of Bowness on Solway is a charming mix of pretty traditional Cumbrian cottages, houses and farms, hugging the shoreline of the Solway Firth - part of the Solway Coast National Landscape. It is best known as being the western end of Hadrian’s Wall, with a small shelter marking the spot - it also stands at the end of the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail. As well as its historical significance, Bowness on Solway is also a haven for nature and wildlife and is known for its bird watching.
History of Bowness on Solway
The village of Bowness on Solway boasts a rich Roman history. Marking one end of Hadrian’s Wall, it’s located on the site of Maia: once the second largest Roman fort on the wall.
Following the Roman Empire, the Normans took stones from the fort to build St Michael’s Church, which stands as a place of worship to this day. Indeed, stone from the wall was used in building a number of local houses and structures.
In 1626, St Michael’s Church bells were stolen by Scottish raiders, who - after being pursued by locals - threw them into the Solway, never to be seen again. In retaliation, a group from Bowness on Solway stole bells from nearby churches in Scotland around Annan. These bells remain in St Michael’s Church and it has become tradition for every new vicar of Annan to request their return (and be refused!).
With Scotland standing just across the Solway Firth from Bowness on Solway, a number of attempts were made to connect the two. It’s thought that early Christian missionaries once sailed between Scotland and England across the Firth. In 1869, a one-mile long viaduct called the Solway Junction Railway was opened. Connecting Bowness with Annan in Scotland, it ran into a number of problems during its lifetime including ice build up and collapsing piers. In 1921, the line ceased operation and was dismantled in 1934.
Nature & Wildlife
Standing on the Solway Firth and part of the Solway Coast National the village of Bowness-on-Solway is a great place to experience a vibrant array of wildlife. Popular with bird watchers, it welcomes flocks of migrating birds in spring, while winter is a good time to see barn owls, kestrels and buzzards. Keep an eye out for butterflies, months and dragonflies too. The nearby Bowness on Solway Nature Reserve features a one-mile circular walking route, while the RSPB’s Campfield Marsh Reserve is a mile and a half from the village and home to the Solway Wetlands Centre – a great place for more information on the area.
Be sure to stop and admire the stunning sunsets over the Solway Firth from Bowness on Solway: they’re spectacular.
FAQs
Where in Bowness on Solway located?
Bowness on Solway is located on the north of the Cumbrian coast, just a short distance from Scotland.
Where is there to stay in Bowness on Solway?
There is a small handful of places to stay in Bowness on Solway itself, as well as a greater selection outside of the village but within easy reach. Think B&Bs, self catering accommodation and glamping, including Midtown Farm Bed & Breakfast and The Tranquil Otter.
How to get to Bowness on Solway?
Bowness on Solway can be reached by car along Cycle Route 72 or by bus. It can also be reached on foot via the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail, or by bike along Hadrian’s Cycleway – Route 72.
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