WITH a boom in staycations expected this Summer, many tourists are expected to visit Cumbria's most popular and busy beaches.

In a bid to beat the crowds, we have come up with a list of lesser known and likely lesser dense beaches that are worth visiting this year.

Here are some secret beaches you can visit in Cumbria.

Silecroft, Millom

Silecroft Beach

Silecroft Beach

This beach is described as sand and shingle and you are able to see Black Combe Fell in the distance.

On clear days, if you're lucky, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the Isle of Man and you'll definitely be able to enjoy a sunset or two in the summer.

Alongside the beach is a site of special scientific interest nature reserve where natterjack toads make their habitat and spawn and ‘sing’ in the springtime.

Walney Island

Walney Island

Walney Island

The 11-mile long island near Barrow is in the Irish sea, at the tip of the Furness peninsula.

There are lots of sandy beaches at the northern end of the island. It has become home to two Cumbria Wildlife Trust Nature Reserves and if you're lucky, you'll be able to find a colony of grey seals, and lots of migratory birds.

Ravenglass Beach, Ravenglass

A pebbles on the beach at Ravenglass by Whitehaven News Camera Club member David Cornelius

A pebbles on the beach at Ravenglass by Whitehaven News Camera Club member David Cornelius

Ravenglass lies on a coastal estuary where three rivers meet before joining the Irish sea.

The beach here is a mixture of mud, shingle and sand, backed by a small grassy area.

From the beach you can see the fells of Eskdale and Wasdale with lots of walks from the coast and a lovely circular walk taking in the Roman Bath House.

Not far away is Muncaster Castle, with its gardens and hawk and own centre.

You can also visit the La'al Ratty stream railway one of the oldest and longest narrowgauge railways in the country.

Arnside Beach, Arnside

Arnside Sailing Club members turning boats on the beach tide

Arnside Sailing Club members turning boats on the beach tide

The beach is in an area of outstanding natural beauty with stunning views. You can take a stroll along the Victorian promenade which leads to a coastal path that is great for dog walkers.

Why not stop at the award-winning Arnside chipping for something to eat, or try one of the great pubs.

Th sunsets in the area are said to be amazing, with views over Morecambe Bay and the Lakeland fells.

St Bees

St. Bees beach

St. Bees beach

This is the start of the coast to coast cycle or walk route.

St Bees has a mile-long sand and pebble beach known as Seacote Beach.

At the north end is a promenade extending toward the red sandstone cliffs and backed by St Bees Golf Club.

It's also dog-friendly all year round, and great for rockpooling and exploring.