KING EDWARD I MONUMENT
A superbly varied Solway Firth site
Edward I was known as the ‘Hammer of the Scots’ and more than once crossed these marshes to get into Scotland. He also died here, in 1307, hence the monument. This circular walk gives you a great chance for many birds.
WHERE TO WATCH
1
Driving into this car park off the minor road from Burgh by Sands, you have the high ground to scan over Bough and Rockcliffe Marsh. Winter can see up to 20,000 geese using the area, with mainly Barnacles and Pinkfeet. The nearby fields can hold Yellowhammer and Sky Lark. Scan for Grey Partridge in these fields. 2
Take the lane to the left, checking the hedges for warblers like Willow Warbler, Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat. Winter thrushes often using the hedges or fields. Make your way to the left around a cattle coral to get onto the marsh.
3
The monument stands well out on the marsh, so scan for a perched Peregrine or Merlin. The marsh has many natural drains, but you can follow where the cattle have made their way over small bridges.
4
A large pool is found close to the River Eden. This can attract ducks like Wigeon and Teal. Check for migrant waders like Common Sandpiper, Dunlin and Ringed Plover. Scan over the river and Rockcliffe Marsh. 5
Once the tide is running, check for ducks like Goldeneye and Red-breasted Merganser here. Check the washed-up trees for raptors perched using them as lookouts in this flat terrain. Both flocks of Linnets and Twite use the area in winter.
6
Walk along to Old Sandsfield and follow the river upstream, checking a shingle bank for loafing gulls with winter records of both Iceland and Glaucous. More Wigeon can be found grazing the bank upriver. Walk back via Holmesmill Farm.
7
Follow the minor road west back to your car, checking the fields. Both Whooper Swans and Pinkfooted Geese have been found here.