Allithwaite

Allithwaite, in south Lakeland on Morecambe Bay's north shore, takes its name from the Norse meaning 'a clearing belonging to Eilifr'. Allithwaite was part of the county of Lancashire until 1974 when the boundary lines were changed. Around lie the low fells and the coast.

At one time a corn mill and a brewery operated in the village along with a quarry. A school, vicarage and church, St Mary, were constructed in 1865, the church of local limestone. Farming is carried on in the area. About 2000 people now live here, and some commute to Ulverston, Kendal or Lancaster to work. A community centre, two pubs, a Christian holiday centre, and nursing home are among the local job providers.

Nearby attractions include Humphrey Head, a limestone cliff on a small peninsula. Here a 'holy well' was purported to have curative powers, especially for lead poisoning, a concern of miners. A cave on the promontory yielded prehistoric and Roman artefacts that included rings, coins, pottery, and spearheads. Supposedly the last wolf in England was killed here.

South of the village is a 15^th century three storey stone tower house Wraysholme Tower. A 19^th century farmhouse stands on the site of the former hall range.

Location Map of Allithwaite
Allithwaite is one mile south-west of Grange-over-Sands on the B5277.

Photos courtesy TheButler

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