Healthy Grange-over-Sands
Come and stay in Healthy Grange-over-Sands. In its heyday, Grange-over-Sands used to be one of the most popular health resorts in the North of England.
During the Victorian period, the sea air was believed to be of benefit to tuberculosis sufferers.
With its mile-long promenade on the coast of Morecambe Bay and easy access for walkers to Hampsfell and Yewbarrow Woods, Grange is well worth a look if you visit Cumbria.
Grange-over-Sands
Grange took off as the place to be seen once the Ulverston and Lancaster railway arrived in 1857.
The town became so much more accessible to those from the industrial towns and cities in the North.
The railway company built the original Cumbria Grand Hotel in 1880, which was then known as the Hazelwood Hydro.
This Victorian building was used by visitors who enjoyed billiards, dancing, and games such as tennis, croquet, badminton, quoits, and golf. At one time, the Hazelwood Hydro (then known as the Golf Hotel) owned what is now the Grange-over-Sands golf course.
As Grange tried to establish itself as a ‘Spa’, visitors flocked to the area from the industrial towns of the north, notably for its warmer climate and fresh air.
Hotels, such as the Grange Hotel (below), and other health-related hydropathic establishments were built.
A brochure when the Grange Hotel was then known as Rigg’s Hotel, advertised the following, “ The Hotel is well sheltered by hills on the north and east, and is admirably adapted for a winter residence or for invalids. The water supply is exceptionally good, being brought from Newton Heights, five miles away from Grange, and is the purest in the neighbourhood”.
The hotel boasted a swimming bath with water drawn from the sea by steam power.
At the bottom of the hotel drive, you will see the original stables (now apartments) and refreshment rooms. These were called ‘The Taps’ and were part of the hotel.
The refreshment rooms were nicknamed ‘the cocoa rooms’ because cocoa was the cheapest drink you could buy.
In 1872, the hotel was leased to Messrs Rigg of the Windermere Hotel, who were among the most experienced hoteliers in the Lake District.
The Rigg’s were also coach operators and ran horse-drawn coaches from the Grange Hotel to the Windermere Hotel.
The Rigg family traced their roots to Middleton, a village near Kirkby Lonsdale.
Their fortunes flourished with the rise of the holiday coach and hotel industry, a sector they entered astutely as the advent of the railways transformed travel and opened up new opportunities for leisure and tourism.
Capitalising on the growing demand for holiday accommodation and transportation, the Riggs established themselves as prominent figures in the burgeoning hospitality trade, building a legacy of entrepreneurial success that would shape their family’s future for generations.
The building known as ‘Lingholme’ on Fell Road (once the British Legion Club) is another relic of the Spa era. It was built in 1880 as the Grange Hydropathic.
With a long roof, broken by eleven tall dormer windows and no less than 49 chimney pots, it was a notable sight in the town. It also had white tile vapour baths and a seawater pool, but ceased to function as a hydro in 1900.
Down on the promenade, pleasure boats and steamers arrived. There was a small pier at Clare House, built in 1893, where boats of varying sizes arrived from across Morecambe Bay.
Imagine stepping back in time to Edwardian England. You stroll along a grand promenade, the gentle sea breeze ruffling your hair.
Tea rooms beckon with freshly baked scones, while a lively bandstand fills the air with music.
Tennis courts invite a friendly match, and ornamental gardens burst with vibrant blooms.
This wasn’t a scene from a dream, but the charming reality of Grange-over-Sands, once aptly nicknamed the “Torquay of the north.”
For wanderlusting souls, Grange offers a haven of well-marked footpaths.
These trails wind through stunning countryside, rewarding you with breathtaking views of the bay and the majestic Lakeland fells.
Craving an extra challenge?
Walk up to the top of Hampsfell.
It’s a thrilling climb that leaves you looking out at the sprawling beauty of Morecambe Bay and the quaint village of Cartmel nestled below.
Whether you seek gentle strolls or exhilarating peaks, Grange-over-Sands promises an unforgettable escape.
Discover its timeless charm, savour its Edwardian elegance, and let the magic of the north coast work its spell on you.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1) What healthy activities can I enjoy in Grange-over-Sands?
Grange-over-Sands offers scenic walks, cycling routes, and nature trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a healthy lifestyle. Many visitors enjoy exploring the coastline and parks while staying at Kents Bank Holiday Cottage for a restful base.
2) Are there local stores with fresh, healthy produce in Grange-over-Sands?
Yes, local shops like R.A. & J.S. Fletcher in Grange-over-Sands provide fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other healthy foods to support a balanced diet during your stay, including guests at Kents Bank Holiday Cottage.
3) Where can I find wellness and nutrition support in Grange-over-Sands?
Qualified nutrition professionals and health services are available in Grange-over-Sands, offering expert advice on diet, health, and wellness to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle while visiting or living here.
4) How can I stay active while staying at Kents Bank Holiday Cottage?
Guests at Kents Bank Holiday Cottage can enjoy nearby hiking, cycling, and walking paths in the Lake District, providing excellent opportunities for fitness amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
5) Is Grange-over-Sands a pet-friendly destination for active outdoor holidays?
Yes, many accommodations, including Kents Bank Holiday Cottage, welcome pets, allowing you to combine a healthy, active holiday with your furry friends exploring pet-friendly walking areas.
6) What healthcare facilities support a healthy stay in Grange-over-Sands?
Grange-over-Sands Health Centre provides comprehensive medical and community health services, contributing to the well-being of residents and visitors alike.
7) Can I enjoy a healthy diet while staying in holiday cottages in Kents Bank?
Absolutely. Many cottages like Kents Bank Holiday Cottage have fully equipped kitchens, enabling guests to prepare nutritious meals with local fresh produce from Grange-over-Sands markets.
8) What outdoor activities promote health and wellness in the area?
The area around Grange-over-Sands supports swimming, walking along Morecambe Bay, cycling, and wildlife watching, all promoting physical and mental wellness for visitors using accommodations such as Kents Bank Holiday Cottage.
9) Why choose Kents Bank Holiday Cottage for a healthy holiday in Grange-over-Sands?
Kents Bank Holiday Cottage offers a peaceful retreat with sea views, private garden space, and easy access to outdoor activities, making it ideal for guests prioritising health and relaxation during their Lake District stay
10) Is Grange-over-Sands a nice place to live?
With its mild climate, clean air, independent shops and great views over Morecambe Bay, Grange-over-Sands is a fantastic place to live.
Conclusion
Ready to book your stay at Kents Bank Holiday Cottage in beautiful Grange-over-Sands? Click here to enquire or ring 07785944194 for a no-obligation chat.