Lytham is an attractive seaside resort located just south of Blackpool on Lancashire’s Fylde Coast. Often confusingly referred to as Lytham St. Annes, these are actually two separate neighbouring towns, both equally delightful in their own way.
Getting there:
If arriving by car, it’s easiest to follow the M55 motorway into Blackpool and then take the scenic route along the promenade south to Lytham, a distance of seven miles. Visitors arriving by train should change onto the Blackpool South branch line at Preston and alight at Lytham station just a few minutes walk from the sea and main shopping area.
Suggested itinerary
Lytham Green
Lytham’s best known landmark is its large open space known as Lytham Green which runs the full length of the promenade and is a lovely place for a stroll or a picnic. This unique parkland is located on the edge of the Ribble Estuary and was built as a sea defence after the floods of 1720 which destroyed a large part of the town. ‘The Green’ as it’s often referred to, offers splendid views over the estuary and on a clear day it’s even possible to catch a glimpse of the Welsh mountains. The Ribble Estuary is an important intertidal area for migratory waterbirds and one of the most important sites for waders. If you have an interest in birdwatching ensure you bring your binoculars along if you are visiting during the spring or autumn. Along much of the estuary large areas of salt marsh prevent close viewing but in Lytham the birds feed out on the mud flats close to the promenade providing opportunities for viewing particularly when the tide is coming in.
Lytham Windmill
Another famous landmark is Lytham Windmill which was built by the Squire of Lytham in 1805. It was in use for many years producing stone ground flour but ceased operating after a devastating fire in 1919. Years later, after falling into a state of disrepair the windmill was renovated and re-opened as a museum in 1989.
The windmill is surprisingly spacious inside and is free to visit although donations are gratefully received which go towards the building’s upkeep. Most windmills I have explored have had narrow ladder type steps winding their way up to the top but the one here in Lytham has wide staircases making it easy to explore the building. The exhibition galleries focus on the history of milling, the wider history of Lytham and the Clifton family’s long association with the town.
There’s a display of model windmills and their history that are still to be found in the Fylde area. Other interesting exhibits include a traditional Punch and Judy stand that was used on the beach, vintage posters and Victorian costumes. The local tourism office, Discover Fylde have a desk in the windmill so it’s a good place to pick up leaflets and find information. Lytham Windmill
Old Lifeboat House
The building to the side of the windmill is home to the Lifeboat Museum. The old lifeboat house ceased to be used as the estuary silted up and the RNLI are now based a couple of miles down the road in St. Annes-on-Sea. The building contains a small exhibition centre and a fully restored lifeboat. As the museum is run by volunteers it has limited opening hours and was closed on the day of our visit. Admission free.
Lowther Gardens and Pavilion
Lowther Gardens are located across the promenade from The Green and comprise ornamental flower beds, water features and large lawned areas lined with mature shrubs and trees. The park is home to the Lowther Pavilion theatre with a full programme of shows and events taking place throughout the year. For the more energetic, park activities include bowling, tennis, mini-golf and padel. Lowther Pavilion
Lytham Hall
History: Lytham Hall is the finest Georgian house in Lancashire and was once the ancestral home of the Clifton Family, spanning over four centuries. Nestled in 78 acres, the surrounding parkland was home to a priory of Benedictine monks back in the 12th century. Sir Cuthbert Clifton then built a Jacobean Manor House on the site in 1606 with much still in existence. In 1752 Thomas Clifton commissioned John Carr of York to build the fine palladian house that welcomes visitors today.
Visiting the Grounds: Entrance to the grounds and gardens is free of charge with just a nominal parking fee payable. The extensive grounds are perfect for a stroll beside the lake and Curtains Pond, whilst the formal Parterre and South Prospect Gardens surrounding the Hall provide an oasis of calm.
Visiting the Hall: The Hall is located at the end of a 3/4 mile long drive from the gatehouse. Guided tours of the stunning Georgian Hall take place daily (except Saturday) with pre-booking unnecessary.
Cafe: The Cafe at Lytham Hall is set in the west wing which opens onto a charming outdoor area with attractive borders and picnic tables set in the heart of the estate. Afternoon teas are a speciality of the Hall and are served in the delightful period setting of Lilibet’s afternoon tea emporium. Pre-booking essential.
Garden Hub: Browse the plants and flowers available for sale in the sheltered courtyard and get advice on planting from the knowledgeable gardening staff. Other facilities include a small shop. Lytham Hall
Spend an afternoon shopping
Shopping in Lytham is an absolute delight especially during the summer months when its many cafes and wine-bars spill out onto the pavements and across the Square. The town has a vibrant high street with a large number of independent shops including the wonderful Stringers department store which is family owned and has been serving Lytham for almost 170 years.
Stroll along Clifton Street with its high class boutiques, cheese shop, greengrocer, and galleries whilst admiring the beautiful, floral displays. Lytham are the current holders of the Britain in Bloom coastal award which is clearly well deserved.
Discover the town’s rich history
The Lytham Heritage Centre is located in a beautiful Victorian former bank building with the centre documenting the history of the town and hosting temporary art exhibitions. Admission free. Lytham Heritage Centre
Lytham Gin
Take part in a gin tasting event at the award winning Lytham distillery. Established by Sara and her husband in 2018 and initially located in their garage, they are now based on the edge of the town.
Learn about the distilling process before going up to their attractive mezzanine bar to sample a range of their gins from Lytham Gin with coastal notes of samphire to Bee’s Knees Old Tom sweetened with honey and Positively Purple infused with blueberries, blackberries and butterfly pea flowers. Lytham Gin
Lytham Festival
Lytham Festival has grown from a community one night Proms style concert to a spectacular five day live music event featuring top performers and attracting 100,000 visitors each summer. The festival takes place on Lytham Green with a backdrop of the iconic windmill. Dates for 2024 are 3-7 July when Madness, Rick Ashley, Shania Twain and the Lightning Seeds to name but a few will be headlining the event. Lytham Festival
