Things to do in Fleetwood

One of the oldest traditional markets in Lancashire, this is a bargain or antiquity hunter’s paradise. Delve through over 250 stalls selling everything from fresh produce to unique souvenirs. 

The market is an indoor attraction, so it’s perfect for a rainy day, or in high summer to get out of the heat for a little while. You’ll sometimes see local authors doing book signings, local pottery, jewellery, and delicious baked goods. You might even catch a children’s storytelling show. Check out their Facebook page for more information.

Step back in time and discover Fleetwood’s rich maritime heritage, its Victorian heyday, and deep-rooted fishing industry. You'll see brilliant examples of this history in Harriet - a recovered fishing boat from 1893 - and Judy - a prawn-fishing vessel known locally as a ‘Nobby.’

Did you know that the world-renowned confectionery Fisherman’s Friend originated in Fleetwood? Learn other surprising details in this fun museum with plenty to do and see. There are craft activities for kids, and a continually changing program of exhibitions to explore.

This welcoming entertainment venue plays host to a range of events, from concerts to theatrical performances. Its 1930s Art Deco exterior is lit up at night like a jewel on the town’s esplanade, and its painted glass dome is worth a look during the daytime too. 

Events include music gigs, comedy nights and theatre starring some of the biggest names in entertainment. It’s also a proud community venue, with tea dances, classes, and annual shows from the local dance schools. There’s a summer food and drink festival and the surrounding gardens provide an idyllic setting for a wander.

Enjoy the simple pleasure of a stroll along the shore at the local beach, officially called Marine Beach.  

Build sandcastles, indulge in an ice cream, or walk from the Ribble River mouth and ferry terminal round the coast as far as the modernist gem that is the Rossall Point watch tower.

Perched on the mount, this pagoda-like structure, built in 1831 by architect Decimus Burton, provides a panoramic view of the coastline. It once had a practical purpose flag signalling to passing ships and providing an ideal point for coastguards to monitor the bay.  

The surrounding gardens, complete with floral displays, are a scenic picnic spot too, well worth the uphill walk from either Mount Road or the Esplanade. If you have restless teens, there’s a skate park across the road opposite the western end of the gardens.

If you’re curious about what lies across the estuary, you can hop aboard a cute blue and red pedestrian ferry that’s been running continuously from 1841, and explore the communities of Knott End, Preesall and Pilling.

A haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, the marshlands are alive with the sights and sounds of native wildlife. They’re a great example of industrial reclamation too since they were built on the grounds of a former power station. 

The reserve can be reached from Jameson Road and is a great place to exercise your pooch. Hard paths are provided throughout, great for bicycles, pushchairs, or wheelchairs. Among the reedbeds and lagoons expect to spot numerous bird species including ducks, swans, great crested grebe and skylarks.

Fleetwood has plenty of Victorian style and Art Deco splendour, but Rossall Point’s angular modernism really stands out. Looming like a strange sculpture by the western end of Marine Beach, the tower has two viewing decks and binoculars to use for bird watching or scanning the coast for passing ships.  

This observatory is a great spot to witness the stunning sunsets and learn about local wildlife. The eagle eyed should be able to see across Morecambe Bay to the Lakeland fells and the Forest of Bowland. There’s even a remote camera on the ground floor for those unable to climb the stairs.