There are plenty of people who would agree with the sentiments of the old song and say: ‘Oh I do like to be beside the seaside’ - and fortunately there are a number of options for those who fancy a day on the coast without having to travel too far from Manchester.
There’s a huge choice of different places to visit along the North West’s coastline, from genteel and quiet Victorian resorts to boisterous seaside party towns bursting with activities and things to do. There are also long stretches of lonely coastline for those who enjoy seeing nature and getting off the beaten track.
Here are eight suggestions for where you can head for the sea front.
5. Silverdale and Arnside
Located in an area that is something of an overlooked gem, Silverdale and Arnside are beautiful villages with stunning coastal views across Morecambe Bay to the Lake District, miles of footpaths leading through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and places to enjoy something to eat and drink. Photo: Chris Lund Photo: Chris Lund
6. Lytham St Annes
Lytham St Annes is just a couple of miles from Blackpool but couldn’t be more different to its neighbouring resort, with an expansive sandy beach, a Victorian pier, a historic windmill and independent shops among its attractions. Photo: Michelle Adamson Photo: Michelle Adamson
7. Sunderland Point
If getting away from it all is what you want from a day at the coast, then head to Sunderland Point. This tiny hamlet is accessible only by a road which can only be travelled along when the tides are right and contains fascinating evidence of its role as an important trading point hundreds of years ago, such as its colonial-style architecture and Sambo’s Grave remembering a young enslaved African boy. Photo: Ian Greene Photo: Ian Greene
8. Morecambe
Morecambe is hoping the arrival of the Eden Project will be a catalyst for an upturn in its fortunes, but in the mean time it’s a good place to enjoy a stroll along the promenade and an ice cream while looking at the views across to Cumbria, the statue of Eric Morecambe and art inspired by local wildlife. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard Photo: Kelvin Stuttard