The 11-mile island west of Morecambe Bay where the kids' play area has an extraordinary view

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

A Cumbrian island near Morecambe Bay could be the ideal location for a weekend away this month.

The long but narrow stretch of land named Walney Island runs just 11-miles long, but there is plenty to see and do there.

Families can explore its variety of beaches with beautiful views, and take in the wildlife at its two nature reserves - with one best known for seal spotting.

READ MORE: The tranquil islands an hour-and-a-half from Greater Manchester to escape city life

It is located west of Morecambe Bay and is part of Barrow-in-Furness, separated from the mainland by Walney Channel.

Unlike more remote islands in the UK, Walney is inhabited, with a population of more than 10,000.

Earnse Bay, on the western coast, offers panoramic views across the Irish Sea to the Isle of Man and the Lake District mountains.

Here, families can participate in watersports, and attend the island's kitesurfing school.

Sandy Gap and Biggar Bank adjoin with Earnse Bay and are popular for coastal walks and cycling, with a huge children's playground there overlooking the sea.

There is a historical lighthouse to the south of the island, a horse riding school that makes for scenic treks along the beach, and a golf course.

Just a short distance from the town of Barrow-in-Furness, there are many places to stay, while the island itself has a choice of cosy guesthouses and even its own caravan park.

Nature-lovers will want to take the time to visit the South Walney Nature Reserve, which is best known for its Grey Seal colony - the only one of its kind on the Cumbrian coast.

Out of the Furness Islands group, of which there are seven, including the neighbouring tiny Piel Island with its own castle and pub, Walney is the largest.

The island contributed to