Overview
Start the trail in Fleetwood and head along the coast towards Cleveleys before making for the bright lights, entertainment and nightlife of Blackpool. Leave Blackpool and head for the quieter Lytham St. Annes to relax. On to the wetlands of RSPB Ribble before finishing the tour at Fulwood, home to some of the finest buildings in Lancashire.
Fleetwood
A Victorian seaside resort offering an Art Deco Theatre, a harbour and yacht marina, traditional shops and the famous Fleetwood Market. Enjoy a walk along the promenade with great views and two lighthouses, family fun at Marine Splash or see a variety of events at the historic Marine Hall. Locally sourced fish and chips is a must.
Cleveleys
A stop on the tramline between Fleetwood and Blackpool it offers a nice beach where an intriguing petrified forest and sunken village can be seen at low tide. The fully restored 18th century Marsh Mill windmill is a local landmark and look out for the Ogre on the beach. Cleveleys has spent a lot on improving facilities including a very modern promenade suitable for cycling and walking.
Blackpool
Known for its Pleasure Beach, Tower, Illuminations, amusement arcades and donkey rides, Blackpool is the quintessentially British seaside destination and the town welcomes over 6 million visitors every year. It is also the home of Ballroom Dancing and crown green bowls.
Lytham Saint Annes
Close enough to the bright lights of Blackpool so you can still visit, Lytham and St Annes, are very different in character and atmosphere. With large sandy beaches, sometimes it is hard to see the sea, a pier, historic windmill, an Open golf course and stylish independent shops, this is a more upmarket area.
RSPB
Situated on the edge of popular Fairhaven Lake, the Ribble Discovery Centre is the gateway to exploring the Ribble Estuary - one of the most important wetlands in the country and home to more than 250,000 birds. You can’t miss the spitfire memorial reflecting aircraft production at nearby Wharton.
Lytham Hall
Just inland from Lytham this 18th century palladian style Georgian house is set in 78 acres of wooded parkland that has gone through several owners over the years. It hosts a number of events and especially popular are the open air plays during the summer.
Fulwood
The countryside inland from the sea contains many pretty villages with village greens and country pubs to explore. Freckleton is mentioned in the Doomsday book. Some of the finest Victorian buildings in Lancashire can be found in Fulwood including the former workhouse, home to an Army base for the Queen’s Lancashire Regiment and Museum.