Morte Bay facts for kids
Morte Bay is a beautiful bay located on the northwest coast of Devon, a county in southwest England. It stretches quite a distance, from a spot called Whiting Hole in the south all the way up to Morte Point in the north. This area is famous for its stunning coastline and lovely beaches.
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Discovering Morte Bay
Morte Bay is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. It's known for its long sandy beaches and the interesting cliffs that surround it.
Where is Morte Bay?
Morte Bay is found in the county of Devon, which is in the southwest part of England. It faces the Bristol Channel, which is a large inlet of the Atlantic Ocean. The bay is about 500 meters (around 1,640 feet) north of Baggy Point at its southern end.
Beaches and Villages
At the back of Morte Bay, you'll find a long stretch of sand known as Woolacombe Sand. This beach is very popular for surfing and relaxing. The southern part of this beach, which is in the area of Georgeham, is called Putsborough Sand.
The charming village of Woolacombe sits right at the northeastern edge of the bay. It's a lively place with shops and places to eat, making it a great base for exploring the area.
Nature and Scenery
Behind the beaches, you'll see the rolling hills of Woolacombe Down and Pickwell Down. These hills create a beautiful natural background for the bay and its sandy shores.
Two famous walking routes, the South West Coast Path and the Tarka Trail, follow the coastline around Morte Bay. These paths offer amazing views and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area.
What is Morte Bay Made Of?
The cliffs around Morte Bay are made from different types of rock. On the northern side, the cliffs are formed from something called the Morte Slates. These are dark, fine-grained rocks that were formed from mud and clay a very long time ago.
On the southern side of the bay, the cliffs are made from Upcott Slates. These are similar to the Morte Slates but might have slightly different characteristics.
Underneath the bay itself, and forming the higher ground to its east, you'll find the Pickwell Down Sandstones. These are harder rocks, made from sand grains, which often form more rugged landscapes. These different rock types create the unique shapes and features you see along the coast.
