If you are taking a holiday in England, there are two really important safety measures to be aware of: to check the tidal causeway times (to avoid getting stranded when the tide comes in) and to avoid quicksand (sinking mud).
Also read tips to keep dogs safe at the seaside.
Check for Tidal Causeway Times
Tides are the rise and fall of sea levels caused by gravitational forces. The moon plays a significant role, pulling the water towards it, resulting in high tides. As the Earth rotates, different areas experience varying levels of water.
While the moon’s influence is prominent, the sun also contributes to tidal movements, albeit to a lesser extent. Together, these celestial bodies create a rhythm of high and low tides, which shift throughout the day and month.
Causeways are uniquely affected by tides. During low tide, they may be entirely exposed, offering safe passage. However, as the tide rises, water can quickly cover parts of the causeway, making travel hazardous.
Visibility can change, hiding potential obstacles beneath the surf. Understanding the timing of tides is essential for safe navigation; failing to do so can result in being stranded, or worse, causing damage to your vehicle.
Tide Time Tips
Before setting off, consult local tide tables. These schedules provide information on the times and heights of tides specific to your location. Many coastal communities offer updates online, or you can use tide apps designed for your region. Planning your journey according to tide times can prevent unpleasant surprises.
The best times to cross causeways are usually two hours before low tide or two hours after. This timeframe allows for the safest passage, as water levels are at their lowest or just beginning to rise. Always consider potential delays; arriving early gives you the confidence to cross without feeling rushed.
No matter how well you plan, emergencies can still occur. If you find yourself stranded on a causeway, stay calm. First, assess your surroundings. If it’s safe, stay with your vehicle unless it’s in immediate danger. Make sure your phone is charged; in many cases, there’s signal coverage nearby. Contact local services for assistance, and always have a backup plan.
Burgh Island, Devon (above image)
Just off the South Devon coast near the seaside village of Bigbury-on-Sea, the island only has a few buildings including a pub. The best-known is an art-deco hotel (easy to recognise, as it’s often featured in Agatha Christie period TV dramas). The island has a unique sea tractor that can ferry guests across, when the tide is in.
Mersea Island (Essex)
A hidden gem, you would never think that Essex had its own Caribbean-like island! Just 9 miles south of Colchester, Mersea Island is split into east and west Mersea, connecting to the mainland by the Strood, a causeway that floods at high tide. Like Norfolk and Suffolk, it’s famed for its pretty pastel-coloured beach huts.
Causeway of St. Michael’s Mount
St. Michael’s Mount offers a picturesque opportunity to travel across a causeway that is accessible during low tide. The tidal patterns here are quite predictable, with approximately six hours of tidal flow each way. Visitors are advised to check local tide times and plan to arrive early. This ensures ample time to explore the charming island without the worry of getting stranded.
Linked to the town of Marazion, this is managed by the National Trust. In 1755, a Lisbon earthquake caused a tsunami here and the sea rose 6 feet in 10 minutes, rising and falling for 5 hours, causing loss of life and property. Dogs are not allowed a lot of the year as there are not many shady areas, so it’s done for their safety in warm weather.
Causeway to Lindisfarne
The causeway to Lindisfarne (Holy Island) presents unique challenges. Tides here are known for their rapid rise, often covering the road within minutes. It’s vital to be aware of both the tidal times and the specific duration of the flood. The best approach is to arrive well before the tide starts coming in. Local signs provide guidance, reminding travellers of the next high tide, so keep an eye out for these markers. Most people take the bus!
How to Avoid Getting Stuck in Quicksand
Quicksand or ‘sinking mud’ is found in quite a few places in England. The best way to stay safe is simply to follow the warning signs, as all areas that have it will have signs to tell you (and your dogs) to stay away.
What is Quicksand?
Quicksand is simply a mix of sand and water (and sometimes clay) which forms a dense jelly-like trap. When you step on quicksand, the particles of sand separate and the water rises up, make it impossible for someone to stand up, without sinking.
It occurs simply due to water saturating areas of loose sand, due to rising underground water or disturbances in water flow. It’s mostly commonly found near riverbanks, marshes, swamps and some beaches, especially where underground springs are present.
As noted above, most areas in public places (like beaches and tourist spots) will have signs telling you not to go near. The sand will appear very watery or disturbed, and sometimes appears as dark sand surrounded by slow-moving water. Often you can even hear soft ‘sucking sounds’ as you get near, this is the water moving through the sand.
Sticked to marked paths and well-trodden trails and always take heed of warning signs. It’s best if you have to go near quicksand to have someone with you (leave dogs at home). This is so you can have someone to call for help, if you get into trouble.
What to Do if You Get Stuck in Quicksand
First of all, remain calm if you can. Quicksand in most cases WON’T pull you under completely, but thrashing around will cause you to sink further. Instead, lean back to spread your weight and increase buoyancy. Use slow deliberate movements to wiggle your feet, then call for help.
You can now buy smartphones that say your location (or invest in a personal locator beacon). Keep phones in a waterproof pouch if you are in isolated areas, ready to call 999 or 112 (coastguard) for help if needed.
Most Common Spots to Avoid Quicksand
Morecambe Bay (on the Cumbrian coast) is notorious. If you remember a few years back, this is where the Chinese cockle pickers were swept to their deaths by a strong tide. It’s very important (as all popular tourist spots) to keep dogs away too, as some have had to be rescued.
The Broomeway (Essex) is known as England’s deadliest walkway. This has dangerous sand flats and mud flats, which have claimed the lives of over 100 people over the years. As noted above, the tides and dangerous weather is more the reason for people dying, as in most cases, quicksand won’t kill you, it just seems that way when you’re in it.
Weston-super-Mare (Somerset) is of course a very popular holiday destination, due to its wide sandy beaches and long tidal range. But again this is a real danger area for quicksand, so look at the signs carefully, to know what to avoid.
Asparagus Island (Cornwall). This is indeed named after the wild wild asparagus that grows here. It lies on the western side of the Lizard Peninsula.
Horsey Island (Essex).This is part of Hamford Water National Nature Reserve, and permission is needed to visit, as it’s managed by Natural England.
Being aware of tide patterns is essential for anyone wishing to traverse causeways. By respecting tidal schedules and planning your journey with care, you can enjoy the breathtaking views and serene experiences without the anxiety of being stranded.
Always remember to check local tide times and remain prepared for emergencies. With these tips in mind, your next adventure will be not only safe but also memorable. So go ahead, explore those stunning coastal routes, and cherish every moment!
