North Of Blackpool Is A Charming Coastal Town With Sea Views, Shops, And Tasty Restaurants

Travelers planning a vacation in England will no doubt be spending time in London. However, a great addition to any overseas getaway has to be a day by the sea, and England certainly offers a bevy of charming seaside towns to explore. Up north along the coast of the Irish Sea is Morecambe, which, in previous centuries, was popular with working-class Brits seeking a seaside getaway. With panoramic waterfront views and local eateries serving up tasty meals, Morecambe is an underrated destination for coastal delights.

The vibrant community now known as Morecambe was once three separate fishing villages, which were merged together in the mid-19th century. Visitors can wander along the waterfront promenades to admire not only the sea views, but also the town's Victorian architecture, which adds historic charm to the coastal atmosphere. Take a stroll out across the Stone Jetty to gaze across the ebbing tide, or head into the Winter Gardens for a fun afternoon. Originally built as an entertainment hall in the 1870s, which included restaurants and several plunge pools for the public to swim, the Winter Gardens is now a venue for various concerts and festivals.

Meanwhile, anyone who enjoys a spot of retail therapy can also browse Morecambe's local boutiques in the town center, along with an array of charity shops. At the end of the day, the town's quaint pubs and restaurants beckon travelers for a tasty meal. Locals in Blackpool can drive to Morecambe in less than an hour, while travelers coming from London are just over three hours away by train. Accommodation options like The Midland Hotel and The Strathmore Hotel mean visitors can turn a Morecambe day trip into a weekend escape.

You can't visit a coastal town without taking a leisurely waterfront stroll. Dominating Morecambe's harbor is the Stone Jetty, a wide pier stretching out into the sea. Mingle with other visitors as you amble along while enjoying waterfront views. When the tide draws back, the calm seafront transforms into a vast, sandy shoreline which creates a picturesque backdrop for photos.

Walk all the way to the end of the Stone Jetty to reach Trafalgar Point, where visitors can stop for a moment to gaze out across the water. Previous travelers have even mentioned that you can catch a glimpse of the slopes in the southern portion of the Lake District rising across Morecambe Bay. What's more, the walkways along the jetty include built-in entertainment like hopscotch and a maze for visitors to have fun while strolling around.

From the Stone Jetty, the town's local boutiques are just a short walk away. Stop for unique souvenirs at Beach Bird, which a previous customer called a "delightful little shop with a boho/hippie vibe." Head into the back to explore the magic shop, or browse the selection of jewelry and accessories, not to mention notebooks, gift cards, and even vintage trinkets. Further up the road is The Old Pier Bookshop, an independent retailer "stocked floor to ceiling with second-hand books," according to one visitor. Wander through the maze of tall shelves stocked with old volumes. The shop's eclectic decor features wooden figurines propped into seemingly any available crevice, creating a rustic atmosphere. For more adventures nearby, barely 30 minutes away by car is Garstang, a charming medieval town full of shops and walkable streets.

After spending the day shopping and wandering the seafront, a tasty meal is in order. Right in the midst of the Stone Jetty is the Stone Jetty Cafe, which has been popular with previous customers for its seaside views. Tucked within what was once the jetty's old railway station, the cafe offers hungry visitors a menu of hearty fare like cheese sandwiches, bacon sandwiches, and hot dogs, along with hot drinks and scones. The interior features nautical-themed decor, while an outdoor seating area means customers can also dine in the sea breeze.

For an upscale pub atmosphere, try The Royal Bar & Shaker just a short walk from the Beach Bird gift shop. Featuring a pastel facade with elegant architecture, guests can step inside the stylish bar to enjoy everything from light snacks to a hearty Sunday roast. Try the classic pub dishes like fish and chips or a jacket potato, while a children's menu means families can also dine here. On the weekends, live music performances add even more merriment to the atmosphere. Also doubling as a hotel, guests can retreat to the comfortable rooms upstairs after the day's adventures.

Relax in a cozy cafe at Grow Kitchen, which is highly rated on Google Maps. Previous customers have mentioned the menu options for vegetarians, along with the tasty brunch dishes. Try the chicken flatbread or sweet bacon hash browns topped with cranberry sauce, washed down with iced tea or even matcha. Once you've eaten your fill, plan more adventures by the Irish Sea with a visit to nearby Fleetwood, a coastal town with ocean views, fresh seafood, and award-winning beaches. Alternatively, head inland to Preston, a vibrant city with walkable streets, fun boutiques, and a music scene.