Humphrey Head England’s Last Wolf

Humphrey Head lies just south of Grange-over-Sands and juts far out into Morecambe Bay, giving a stunning view.

Cared for by the Cumbria Wildlife Trust, Humphrey Head Nature Reserve is a long finger of limestone on the Kent estuary.

Locals love it for watching the wading birds on the mudflats, for its rocks and fossils, and for Holy Well Spring, where fresh water flows out of the limestone.

At first glance, you could be forgiven for thinking a huge grey whale was stranded on the low sands of Morecambe Bay.

There are so few cliffs on the Cumbrian coast that when you spot one, you can’t take your eyes off it, even if it’s only 160 feet high.

In fact, the head is the only notable sea cliff between North Wales and St. Bees.

The Holy Well of St Agnes

Next, head to the foot of the cliffs, where you’ll find the Holy Well of St Agnes.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, people praised it as a spa.

The waters were said to cure illnesses such as gout, jaundice and worms.

However, the water was also said to be a bit ‘brakky… not good for tasting’.

This ‘medicinal spring’ once belonged to Cartmel Priory and made this headland, close to Grange-over-Sands, famous.

Lead miners from Alston Moor in Northumberland made a yearly trip to the well.

Meanwhile, the waters were poured into milk kits and sent by rail to Morecambe to be sold to holidaymakers.

The Last Wolf in England

Local legend says the last wolf in England was killed on Humphrey Head in 1390.

According to the story, the beast came down from the fells above Coniston, where it had been attacking sheep. It then attacked a child in Cark-in-Cartmel, and locals chased it to Humphrey Head.

At that time, people were trying to wipe wolves out across Britain, starting in the reign of King Edward I.

Besides the threat to livestock and people, wolves were also said to raid graveyards!

For this reason, big rewards were offered to anyone who killed them.

Today, you can still find wolves around the area. For example, there is the Last Wolf, a beer brewed locally, and two real wolves, Maska and Kajika, who live at the Predator Experience at nearby Ayside.

If you are looking for Lake District Holiday Cottages near Humphrey Head in Grange-over-Sands that is pet-friendly, click here.

How to Book Kents Bank Holiday Cottage

Booking Kents Bank Holiday Cottage is quick and simple. Just visit our website at kentsbankholiday.co.uk or give us a call on 07785944194.

We’re always happy to answer your questions and help you find the perfect dates for your stay.

We will make the whole process easy, so you can focus on looking forward to your relaxing holiday in the Lake District.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1) What is Humphrey Head?

Humphrey Head is a long limestone promontory on the edge of Morecambe Bay. It’s known for its rugged cliffs, peaceful walking trails and sweeping coastal views—an ideal spot for anyone staying at Kents Bank Holiday Cottage.

2) Where is Humphrey Head located?

It sits between Grange-over-Sands and Flookburgh, close to the village of Kents Bank. Guests at Kents Bank Holiday Cottage can reach it in only a few minutes by car or a pleasant walk.

3) Is Humphrey Head suitable for walking?

Yes. There are easy paths that follow the headland, offering gentle gradients and rewarding views. Many visitors who stay at Kents Bank Holiday Cottage enjoy it as a relaxing daily walk.

4) Is Humphrey Head safe to visit?

It’s safe as long as you keep to marked paths and check tide times before exploring the shoreline. The cliffs and edges should be approached with care, especially in wet weather.

5) Can you see wildlife at Humphrey Head?

Absolutely. The area is home to birds, small mammals and seasonal waders across the sands. Guests at Kents Bank Holiday Cottage often visit for a quiet morning of birdwatching.

6) Is Humphrey Head dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome, provided they are kept under control. There are livestock in nearby fields, so staying on paths is important.

7) Is there parking near Humphrey Head?

There is limited roadside parking close to the headland. Many visitors staying at Kents Bank Holiday Cottage choose to walk from the cottage to avoid parking issues.

8) Can you access the beach from Humphrey Head?

Yes, but always check tides before going onto the sands. Morecambe Bay’s tides move quickly, so timing your visit matters.

9) What is the legend of Humphrey Head?

Local tradition links the headland with the story of the last wolf in England. According to legend, the creature was hunted down on or near this very spot.

10) Why stay near Humphrey Head?

Staying nearby allows you to enjoy the peace of the coastline while being close to Grange-over-Sands and the wider Lake District. Kents Bank Holiday Cottage is a popular base, offering comfort and easy access to Humphrey Head’s walking routes and coastal scenery.