Dragley Beck is a small stream that flows through the county of Cumbria in the north-west of England. It is a tributary of the River Leven and is approximately 6.5 miles long. The stream rises in the hills to the east of Ulverston and flows through the villages of Swarthmoor and Lindal-in-Furness before joining the River Leven near Greenodd. The name Dragley is thought to come from the Old Norse word 'draga', meaning to draw or pull, and may refer to the stream's ability to erode the surrounding land.
The area around Dragley Beck is predominantly rural, with farmland and woodland covering much of the landscape. The stream itself is home to a variety of wildlife, including brown trout, otters, and kingfishers. The surrounding countryside is also popular with walkers and hikers, with several footpaths and bridleways criss-crossing the area. The nearby village of Swarthmoor is of historical significance, as it was the birthplace of George Fox, the founder of the Quaker movement.
Despite its relatively small size, Dragley Beck has played an important role in the history and development of the local area. The stream has been used for centuries to power mills and other industrial processes, and evidence of these activities can still be seen in the form of old mill buildings and weirs. Today, the stream is primarily used for recreational purposes, with fishing and kayaking popular activities among locals and visitors alike. Overall, Dragley Beck is a beautiful and important part of the Cumbrian landscape, and a testament to the enduring power of nature.