Extras

Sunderland Point

A frequent reaction when people learn of the Coastwalk is to ask me where the best bits have been. It's a difficult one to answer, but I do secretly harbour a list of places I'd like to revisit. Today I've ticked one of those off.

I scarcely mentioned Sunderland Point on my write-up of the walk from Morecambe to Lancaster nine years ago. Although I only spent a couple of minutes walking through the cluster of cottages it left its mark on me and I've longed to return.

Ordinarily Sunderland Point is reached by a tidal causeway. The tide was in today so I instead parked a mile to the north-west at Potts Corner and walked along the edge of the salt-marsh to a track that leads to the village. Back in 2005 I'd cut across to the village on this track but today kept walking along the edge of the marsh.

A little further south is Sambo's Grave where a "faithful negro" was buried in the 18th century, a sad and lonely place.

Eventually the land runs out and the Point is reached. After scrambling round its rocky end I dropped onto the beach and made for the houses.

I'm at a loss to describe the village; is it melancholic, beautiful or stoic? Perhaps all three. Cut off by the tide it was deserted, peaceful and enchanting.

Sunderland Point is by no means a tourist destination, but it's a place I'd recommend anyone visit. Go when the water is high. Walk from the north. Pay your respects to Sambo.