Day trips to the beach don’t have to be just for the summer. As the weather turns cooler a visit to the seaside feels completely different - think refreshing coastal breezes and invigorating walks, rather than sunburn and puddles of melted ice cream.
A little over an hours’ drive from Manchester, Lytham St Annes is a quintessential seaside town with a large sandy beach, a pier and a charming row of beach huts. It’s only a short distance away from Blackpool but it couldn’t be more different.
Earlier this year Lytham St Annes was named in consumer group’s Which? List of the UK’s least crowded beach towns so if you’re looking for a quiet autumnal beach walk, here’s where you’ll find it.
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For incredible views and a touch of seaside nostalgia, have a stroll along the town’s Victorian Pier. It has welcomed visitors for generations, having opened in 1885, and has everything you would expect from a traditional pier.
A designated Grade II listed building, it stretches out 600ft from the shore and features amusements, seats and places to pick up an ice cream or a refreshment. Originally the pier was much longer, but the end part was demolished following fire damage in 1982 and you can still see some of the remains today.
Adding to Lytham St Anne’s charm are the pastel-coloured beach huts which line the shore. Still available for day rental throughout September and October, they offer a picturesque shelter from the elements and come with luxury touches, such as a kettle, microwave and complimentary tea and coffee.
They’re a great idea if you want to book one for a special event, or just make a great base if you’re planning a day at the seaside.
Further along the shore is Fairhaven Lake, a saltwater lake which is perched right on the coast. It has lots of activities on offer, including rowing boats and pedalos which you can rent. There’s also a skatepark and crazy golf.
Away from the water, Ashton Gardens is well worth a visit, with beautiful flower beds and a duck pond. Further along the coast, Lytham Hall is a beautiful Georgian house set in stunning parkland, perfect for an autumnal walk.
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