Things to do in Lytham St Annes

Steeped in history, this Victorian pier, which opened in 1885, offers a delightful walk, complete with stunning sea views. Its white frontage and pavilions make it one of the prettiest of Britain’s piers. 

Grab a traditional seaside ice cream or a coffee or try your luck in the amusement arcade. At low tide, Instagrammers can grab fantastic images from the barnacled underside of this historic feat of engineering.

Explore the grandeur of this Grade I-listed building. Set amidst 78 acres of lush greenery, it’s a picturesque spot for a leisurely afternoon. 

The Hall plays host to outdoor theatre shows, classical concerts, and talks on subjects as diverse as gardening and calligraphy. If you’ve worked up an appetite why not end your visit with a sumptuous afternoon tea in the pristine Georgian tearoom?

Delve into local history with a visit to this iconic windmill, which also houses a fascinating museum, narrating tales of lifeboat rescues and the milling process. The museum is run by the enthusiastic local historical society and is free of charge. 

The museum and windmill can be found on East Beach, a short stroll from the town’s resident RNLI facility, where today’s maritime rescuers continue a heroic tradition.

If the weather’s playing up, you’ll need somewhere cosy yet stimulating to retreat to. Here’s the perfect place!  

For movie fans, this independent cinema promises a great distraction, showcasing a mix of popular, arthouse and classic movies, as well as filmed concerts. They have special autism-friendly screenings and the local Fylde Film Society handpick some of the more left-field choices.

This gorgeously green botanical garden is an ideal spot in which to spend a tranquil afternoon. Meander through it and admire the flower beds, fountains, and sculpted memorials.

Restored in 2010, the gardens have a Grade II listing, and include an ornamental pond and fountain, a children’s playground, and the Pavilion Café, popular for breakfast and brunch, and open seven days a week.

This theatre and gardens combo promises a cultural treat. From concerts and plays to workshops, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy, from the little ones to the grandparents. 

A quick sampling of current attractions in both the theatre and the adjacent gardens includes yoga classes, children’s story time, a movie-making week, 1940s-style dance classes, outdoor theatre, and a French food night. There’s certainly no excuse to be bored!

If you’d prefer to be more active, golf is one of the local highlights. Tee off at Lytham’s world-renowned golf course.  

Royal Lytham & St Annes has played host to numerous Open Championships, the most recent in 2012, as well as the Ryder Cup twice, making it a must-visit for golfing enthusiasts. Watch out for bunkers, however – this challenging course boasts 167 of them!

If you want to get a bit of peace and quiet and explore one of the UK’s most important sites for wildfowl, here’s the place to head. 

The Ribble Estuary National Nature Reserve covers over 5,600 acres and is home to more than 270,000 birds, plus rare sand lizards and natterjack toads. Visit the Fairhaven Lake Visitor Centre (see below) to find out the best (and most environmentally friendly) ways to go birdwatching, or even volunteer to join a litter picking group.

Sandwiched between the sea and the Inner Promenade is a large saltwater lake, with two islands, plenty of birdlife and lush gardens. 

Around half a mile in length, the lake has room for both wildlife habitats and water sports, including colourful sailboats, plus motor and rowing boat hire. Nearby you’ll find a skate and BMX park, tennis courts, bowling greens and a fitness trail. If all that sounds too energetic, it’s the perfect spot for a family picnic too. 

Here’s one for the adults! Lytham Gin is an award-winning range of artisanal gins, including pink and even purple varieties. 

Three times a week, the distillery offers a tour and tasting, including insights into the history of British gin-making, a sampling of four gins, and a drinks-making session.

On a day trip to Lytham St Annes, you’ll enjoy coastal serenity, rich heritage, and a vibrant local culture. This picturesque town testifies to the appeal of the Lancashire coast, and there’s much to discover. You won’t forget it!