City Coast Countryside
With golden sandy beaches, stunning views, historic buildings and glorious countryside, Morecambe Bay is the perfect place to discover and enjoy new experiences, as well as taking time out for some well needed relaxation.
Make the most of the amazing local wildlife at Leighton Moss RSPB, enjoy the waders and oystercatchers along the shore at Hest Bank and Bolton-Le-Sands, or watch the seals lazing around the Southern tip of Walney Island.
Take a relaxing stroll along one of the many coastal paths and breathe in the fresh sea air, before stopping for a moment to admire the stunning views across Morecambe Bay.
LANCASTER
Lancaster is a cosmopolitan and vibrant university city with a rich cultural and artistic life. Cobbled streets and squares house quirky independent shops, stylish hotels and galleries with a wide choice of great cafes, coffee shops, pubs and restaurants. Lancaster’s dynamic arts venues include The Dukes, the only producing theatre in Lancashire and Lancaster Grand Theatre, the third oldest continually operating theatre in England. Renowned for its rich and diverse history, Lancaster has many fascinating stories to tell. Stroll through the stunning Georgian and Victorian streetscape then stop off at Lancaster’s historic attractions including several magnificent Grade 1 listed buildings.
A tour of Lancaster Castle reveals tales of The Pendle Witches, crime and punishment through the ages, famous trials and much more! In the shadow of the castle stands the inspiring Lancaster Priory and just down the hill is The Judges’ Lodgings with its priceless collection of Gillow furniture. Marvel at the Ashton Memorial in Williamson Park which dominates the city’s impressive skyline. Don’t forget to visit Lancaster’s museums to help you piece together the history of the city.
THE STOREY
The Storey is a great place to stop off en route to Lancaster Railway Station. Central to Lancaster’s artistic, technical and scientific innovation for over 130 years, The Storey Institute was remodelled in 2009 as a purpose designed centre for creative industries and performing arts. The building hosts events, courses and exhibitions with refreshments available in the Printroom Café & Bar. Top Tip!: On the first floor take in an exhibition in the stunning Storey Gallery, then discover one of Lancaster’s hidden gems, a magnificent stained glass window by the former Lancaster stained glass manufacturers Shrigley and Hunt.
The Storey Gardens are an oasis of calm and tranquillity, divided into two distinct sections by a Georgian wall. The Friends of the Storey Gardens are restoring the artwork in The Tasting Garden. As of August 2025 nine fruit sculptures created by Lancaster sculptor Alan Ward have been installed.
JENNY BROWN’S POINT
The skilfully constructed tall chimney of limestone which stands on the shoreline at Jenny Brown’s Point is all that remains of a copper smelting works established at the end of the 18th century. One of Lancashire’s most beautiful coastal areas and the perfect spot to enjoy the amazing vistas in this AONB.
Elizabeth Gaskell wrote some of her novels from a tower overlooking the sea.
GRANGE-OVER-SANDS
A visit to Grange-over-Sands is the perfect way to combine a leisurely stroll around a traditional Victorian seaside town with a small hike over a striking, but low, fell.
Hampsfell stands at only 220m high, yet it boasts some of the finest views of any fell in the Lake District. On the top of Hampsfell is the Hospice. This solid stone shelter was built in 1846 by the vicar of Cartmel and is the ideal place to shelter from inclement weather.
Above the door is a Greek inscription which apparently reads “Rosy-fingered dawn” and seems to puzzle many people; maybe because it faces East and, therefore, directly into the rising sun. Inside the Hospice are several other inscribed panels telling more about the history of the site.
MORECAMBE
Morecambe is a great family resort with sandy beaches, vibrant festivals and attractions for all ages. Whether you fancy laser games, trampolining, bowling, classic seaside arcades or just relaxing making a sandcastle on the beach, Morecambe is a fun filled destination. Choose from a wide range of holiday accommodation to suit your budget with welcoming seafront hotels and B&Bs, stylish self catering flats and good value caravan and camping sites. Step back in time to a golden era at the 4 Star Art Deco Midland Hotel. Take in a show at the historic Alhamabra or The Platform housed in Morecambe’s former Edwardian promenade railway station, then tour the magnificent Morecambe Winter Gardens which is being lovingly restored to its former glory.
The kids can let off steam in Happy Mount Park and at Jump Rush trampoline centre and Laser Rush. Stroll the promenade to see the site earmarked for the multi million pound Eden Project Morecambe, then linger at the statue of Morecambe’s favourite son, comedian Eric Morecambe. For truly unforgettable sensory experiences take in some of the best bay views in Britain and end the day bathed in a stunning world class Morecambe Bay sunset.
GLEASTON WATER MILL
A historic water powered corn mill dating from the 15th century . Located close to the ruins of Gleaston Castle, the present buildings date from 1774.
The mill and adjacent buildings have been restored by the owners, Mike & Vicky Brereton, to provide access to a fascinating heritage museum, tea rooms, gift shop and a converted pig sty – now a comfortable holiday cottage.
Characteristic of the Cumbria rural landscape, this imposing watermill and site has been part of the local traditions for over 600 years. Located close to the ruins of Gleaston Castle, the mill was first used in the 1300s. Visitors to the mill can see the 18ft water wheel, impressive wooden machinery and many displays and artefacts.
LUNE VALLEY
The Lune Valley is considered one of the most beautiful areas to visit. Close to Morecambe Bay, a trip around the Lune Valley has to be the perfect way to combine coast with countryside. Ideal for walking, cycling or even a leisurely drive, with stunning scenery to enjoy.
And it’s not just about the beautiful views. Historically the Lune Valley has been one of the main routes from England to Scotland and has been used over the ages from Vikings to Romans, amongst many others.
WARTON
The village of Warton is a great place to discover some history! Close to Carnforth, the village was first recorded as a settlement in the Domesday Book, written in 1086.
Warton has connections to the first President of the United States, George Washington. Washington’s ancestor of seven generations, Lawrence Washington, is rumoured to have helped build the village church of St Oswald and the pub in the village of the same name has connections with George Washington, historical President of the USA.
CONISHEAD PRIORY
Historic Conishead Priory is home to Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre which is one of the largest Buddhist communities in Europe. There is a Cafe with indoor and outdoor seating and guided tours are available
CARTMEL PRIORY
The stunning market town of Cartmel is a real hidden gem. With its plethora of pubs, restaurants, coffee houses and shops, Cartmel is a pleasure to visit.
Journey to the beautiful Priory, a place where monastic visitors, pilgrims and other travellers, having just crossed the Bay Sands for the first time, would have gazed in awe at the sight of Cartmel Priory as it nestled in the shelter of the wooded valley below.
Cartmel Priory was founded in 1189 by William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke and Regent of the Realm who played a key role in gaining King John’s acceptance of the ‘Great Charter’. His role in convening the meeting between the rebellious Barons and King John and in pursuing the agreement and sealing of Magna Carta at Runnymede in June 1215 was of paramount importance.
SOUTH LAKES
Moving a short distance away from Morecambe Bay, you can explore some of South Lakeland’s best-kept secrets. Here you’ll find a fascinating world of towns and villages, much referenced in English culture like Wordsworth’s Grasmere, Ambleside, Windermere, Coniston, Ulverston, Hawkshead, Walney and not forgetting Kendal. Cumbria has a hat full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered in this beautiful part of the Lake District.
BARROW-IN-FURNESS
Barrow-in-Furness is situated at the southern tip of Cumbria, set against the spectacular backdrop of the English Lake District Mountains and on the southern shores of Morecambe Bay with its rich cultural heritage, outstanding natural environment and wildlife. A Victorian built town with a proud heritage of innovation, surrounded by beautiful beaches and inspiring scenery, it is a destination of surprises. The Furness line from Lancaster to Barrow follows the coastline and provides an enjoyable scenic journey of the Bay.
KNOTT END & FLEETWOOD
There has been a ferry service between Knott End and Fleetwood since before records began with the first ferries operated by fishermen who took passengers across the river as and when required. The first official ferry service began in 1894 and continues today with the Wyre Rose.
The Fleetwood to Knott End ferry service provides a vital link for visitors and locals between Fleetwood and Knott End. The ferry journey takes less than 10 minutes.
WILLIAMSON PARK
Williamson Park in Lancaster is one of Lancashire’s most beautiful parks with 54 acres of beautiful parkland, enchanting woodland walks, play areas and superb views across Morecambe Bay to the Lakeland mountains. The park is home to the iconic Grade 1 listed Ashton Memorial commissioned by linoleum magnate and Lancaster luminary Lord Ashton. Adjacent to the memorial is the Butterfly House and a small zoo with resident meerkats, marmosets, minibeasts and birds. The park hosts a variety of events including The Dukes Lancaster’s not to be missed Play in the Park, which is the UK’s largest outdoor walkabout theatre experience. This year’s production is The Wizard of Oz
SWARTHMOOR HALL
Swarthmoor Hall is a 16th Century country house set in beautiful gardens and grounds in 130 acres of farmland, yet close to the bustling market town of Ulverston. It offers tours of the historic hall, gardens and grounds, a café, accommodation, events and gift shop.
ROSSALL POINT
OBSERVATION TOWER,
FLEETWOOD
Learn about the coastal environment, bird life and plant life, or just come and enjoy the view. The ground floor gallery has information about the local area and seasonal displays. There are two observation decks for bird watching and taking in the views over the beach to the Irish Sea and across Morecambe Bay to the Lakeland fells and the Forest of Bowland. Anyone not able to make it to the top deck will be able to enjoy the view through a screen at ground floor level. The tower has been designed to look as though it is leaning into the wind and rises 42 feet above the sand dunes.
STOTT PARK BOBBIN MILL
Nestled on the shores of Lake Windermere this extensive working mill produced millions of wooden bobbins vital to the Lancashire spinning and weaving industries. It is the only working bobbin mill left in the Lake District today. The story of the Bobbin Mill is brought to life with tours and an exhibition. Visitors can see the journey from tree to bobbin first hand during production on the original belt driven machinery. A hands-on family trail with dressing up for children helps visitors to imagine what it was like to work at the mill.
NICKY NOOK, SCORTON
Nicky Nook is a real hidden gem and a popular vantage point on the outskirts of Scorton with amazing sweeping views from the summit.
The Wyre Way is one of the best ways to check out those views, by pulling on your walking boots and enjoying all, or some of the 46-mile walking route throughout rural Wyre. For the less adventurous, there are some shorter circular routes, with lots of pubs and restaurants to put your feet up along the way.
INGLEBOROUGH CAVE, NATURE TRAIL & THE OLD SAWMILL CAFE
Ingleborough Cave, in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, was first discovered in 1837 by brave Victorian explorers who drained away a lake to discover 1/2km of previously unexplored passages delving deep beneath Ingleborough mountain with only candles to guide them! Today, the cave is well lit, and you can follow in the footsteps of those pioneers on an awe-inspiring voyage of discovery! The cave is reached via the 1.3 mile Ingleborough Estate Nature Trail, which wends its way through the stunning woodland alongside a picturesque lake.
The trail is the gateway to some of the
U.K’s most stunning limestone scenery and ultimately the summit of Ingleborough. Alfred Wainwright, the esteemed guidebook author and illustrator, called this route “the finest of all, a classic”. At the base of the trail sits the Old Sawmill Café. Expect great coffee, delicious tray bakes and an ever changing breakfast and lunch menu using a range of seasonal, fresh & local food.