[1] A route across Morecambe Bay has existed for centuries,[2] with passage by foot and even, at least until the local railway opened in 1857, mail coaches.

[3] Due to the hazardous nature of the bay, particularly its areas of quick sand and unpredictable water channels, guides have assisted travellers throughout history.

More recently, the route has instead crossed Morecambe Bay between Arnside, Cumbria and Kents Bank due to safety concerns.

Indeed, the Queen's Guide to the Sands of the time, Cedric Robinson MBE, described the notion of a designated public right of way as "foolhardy" and stated that it was "impossible to draw the path on the map because it would be obsolete from day one".

[2] Current signage located at the Hest Bank start of the public byway, warns hikers to only cross the bay with the official guide.