Solway Plain facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Solway Basin |
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 A view of the Solway Plain from Longlands Fell |
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Location in accordance to other NCAs in Cumbria |
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| Ceremonial county | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
The Solway Plain is a flat area of land mostly in northwest Cumbria, England. It also stretches a little bit into Scotland, near the towns of Gretna and Annan. This plain is found north and west of the city of Carlisle and runs along the coast of the Solway Firth. Rivers like the Esk and Lyne flow through it.
The Solway Plain is famous for being near the western end of Hadrian's Wall. This ancient wall was built by the Romans! Long ago, in the Middle Ages, people on the Solway Plain often built houses from clay. These special homes were called dabbins. The beautiful Solway coast is so special that it has been named an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty”.
This area is also very important for its history and old discoveries. Archaeologists have found many interesting things here. For example, they found old burial sites with urns at a place called Ewanrigg. There's also proof of ancient homes at Plasketlands. Other sites like Wolsty Hall and Boustead Hill show that people lived here even before the Romans arrived.
Salta Moss is another cool spot. A Bronze Age sword, called a rapier, was found there! This area is also home to unique plants that are not common in other bogs on the Solway Plain. Because of its special nature, Salta Moss has been a “Site of Special Scientific Interest” since 1982. The Solway Plain's history as a borderland is also well-known. From Roman times to the Border Reivers and conflicts between England and Scotland in the Middle Ages, this land was often fought over.
Exploring the Solway Plain's Geography
The Solway Plain is a large, flat area that sits inland from the Solway Coast. This coast is very special! It's been named both an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty” and a “Special Area of Conservation”. This is because of its amazing salt marshes, sand dunes, and wetlands. These different environments mean you can find many unique plants and animals here.
Farming and Nature
Like much of Northern England, the Solway Plain is mostly used for farming animals. You'll see lots of cows, as it's known for its beef and dairy farms. The plain also has many protected bogland areas. These bogs are important because they hold large amounts of peat, which is decayed plant material.
Rivers and Woodlands
Several rivers flow through the Solway Plain. In the west, you'll find the River Ellen. To the east, there are the Sark, Esk, and Eden. As you move away from the coast, towards the southeastern part of the plain, the land becomes hillier. Here, you'll see more woodlands and clear river valleys. The important city of Carlisle is also located on the plain. Historically, Carlisle was a very important city because of its strategic location.
