The tiny island is protected by English Heritage (Image: Katielee Arrowsmith SWNS)
Charming and peculiar, this tiny island off the Cumbrian coastline attracts travellers eager to experience its distinctive landscape and rich historical heritage.
Resembling something from a storybook, Piel Island boasts a ruined castle and even its own monarch – though not in the traditional sense.
As far as undiscovered treasures go, this island epitomises the concept, nestled discreetly beyond Barrow-in-Furness in Cumbria and accessible solely by boat or guided crossing during the right tidal conditions.
Yet the views once you get there are incomparable, offering views encompassing Yorkshire, the Lake District and surprisingly, Blackpool itself. The Blackpool Tower can be spotted rising above the waterline, alongside the renowned ‘The Big One’ rollercoaster at Pleasure Beach.
One visitor described it as a hidden « paradise », writing: « We love everything about Piel, from the walk over the sands to the warm welcome at the pub and the always exciting exploration of the castle: we’ve seen it many times – always find something new! ».
The tiny island is protected by English Heritage (Image: James Maloney/Lancs Live)
History
Dominating the island stands a 14th-century castle, alternatively known as Fouldry Castle, built by the Abbot of Furness with the purpose of safeguarding Barrow-in-Furness.
The structure served to defend against marauding pirates and Scottish invaders navigating these waters. Notably, it sheltered Lambert Simnel, a challenger to Henry VII’s crown, who arrived on the island in 1487.
While the castle in its complete form couldn’t survive such an extended period, its remnants stand remarkably preserved, displaying the main buildings which once stood strong overlooking the landscape.
Visitors can see the keep, both inner and outer baileys and the towered curtain walls, which maintain a haunting atmosphere.
When the tide is incredibly low, it’s possible to walk to the island (Image: Katielee Arrowsmith SWNS)
The Ship Inn
The origins of The Ship Inn remain somewhat obscure, though it’s thought to stretch back more than 300 years. Despite limited documentation, accounts indicate the pub evolved from a former ship chandlery during the 17th century.
Over the years, numerous travellers started frequenting the establishment, which led to various maritime difficulties. Indeed, following multiple nautical mishaps and suspected fatalities during the 19th century, a coroner is believed to have issued a directive to the pub’s landlord.
The Ship Inn’s website claims that it read: « The landlord of the Ship Inn should not supply drink so as to make incapable men who may have to take charge of a boat. »
Today, the pub continues operating as a traditional watering hole between March and September, offering an extensive selection of ales from regional breweries, alongside wines, spirits and crucially – food. The menu features beloved pub fare staples including pies, wraps and jacket potatoes.
One Google review says: « Absolute gem of a place. We spent a half day on the island – took the ferry across (seven quid return for adults), had delicious burger and chips from the BARBECUE at the pub before a walk round the entire island, a wander round the castle ruins and time on the beach. Everyone was super friendly. We’d definitely consider going back to camp. »
Adding to its charm, the pub’s landlord, Aaron Sanderson, who has held the role since 2022, was ceremonially – or unofficially – crowned as the king of Piel in a traditional ceremony. This title is bestowed upon every landlord of the pub, with the inaugural ceremony believed to have started in 1856.
In conversation with the BBC, Andersen said: « It’s definitely a unique role and difficult to do, but enjoyable at the same time. »
He also proudly declared that his pub boasts « probably one of the best beer gardens in the world. »
The Ship Inn pub on Piel Island (Image: Simon Ledingham / geograph.org.uk)
Getting there
Adding to the allure, and mystery, the island is almost exclusively accessible by a single boat, which can transport up to 12 people. The ferry departs from Roa Island in Barrow daily throughout the summer season, running from 11am until 4:30pm.
Reviews indicate that the journey costs around £7, and for those not ready to depart, camping is available from just £5. The cost is per tent and there’s no need to pre-book; simply arrive and pitch your tent near the pub.
When the tide recedes, visitors have the opportunity to join a guided walk across to the island, provided conditions are deemed safe. Regarding vehicular access, just three individuals hold authorisation to drive on the land, one being the king naturally, and it’s certainly no straightforward task.
Ensure our latest headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
Source link
