Birkrigg facts for kids
Birkrigg or Birkrigg Common is a wide-open area of countryside found near the town of Ulverston in Cumbria, England. It's a special place made of limestone rock, and you can see amazing views from its highest point. People have lived here for a very long time, and today, it's a popular spot for outdoor activities like walking and exploring.
Contents
Discovering Birkrigg Common
Birkrigg Common is a unique natural area in southern Cumbria. It's known for its interesting limestone pavement, which looks like giant stone paving slabs. This special landscape is protected by law, meaning it's important to look after it for everyone to enjoy.
What is Birkrigg Common?
Birkrigg Common is a large, open space that's part of the Furness Peninsula. It's called a "common" because it's land that has been shared by local communities for hundreds of years. The highest point of Birkrigg is about 136 meters (446 feet) above sea level.
Amazing Views from Birkrigg
Even though Birkrigg isn't super high, its location gives it incredible views. From the top, you can see far across the landscape. You might spot the mountains of the Lake District, the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales, and the Howgill Fells. You can also look out over Morecambe Bay all the way to Blackpool on a clear day!
Protecting Birkrigg's Nature
The unique limestone pavement at Birkrigg is very important for nature. It's protected under a law called The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This means the area is looked after to keep its special plants and animals safe.
A Look Back in Time: Birkrigg's History
Birkrigg has a rich history, showing that people have lived and used this land for thousands of years. Many ancient sites can be found across the common.
Ancient Monuments at Birkrigg
One of the most famous historical sites here is the Birkrigg stone circle. This circle of stones was built during the Bronze Age, which was a very long time ago. It's a scheduled monument, meaning it's a nationally important historical site that is protected.
Besides the stone circle, there are other ancient remains on Birkrigg. These include three "round cairns," which are mounds of stones often used as burial sites in ancient times. There's also a "prehistoric enclosed hut circle settlement," which means you can see the remains of old homes where people lived long ago. These sites help us understand how people lived thousands of years ago.
Exploring Birkrigg Today
Birkrigg Common has been public land since the 1500s, meaning it's always been available for everyone to use. Today, it's a popular place for people to visit and enjoy the outdoors.
Fun Things to Do at Birkrigg
Birkrigg is a great spot for recreation. There are many footpaths for walking and bridleways for horse riding or cycling. It's a perfect place to go for a hike, enjoy a picnic, or simply take in the stunning views. It's a wonderful example of how ancient landscapes can still be enjoyed by everyone today.
