Beyond Blackpool
The glitzy, brash UK seaside resort of Blackpool is a huge tourist attraction. But keep going and there’s more Lancashire seaside to visit. CONTINUES BELOW
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I arrived by train from Manchester at Blackpool North station, and jumped on the sleek, modern tram service at North Pier heading north out of the town.
My stop was Little Bispham and the start of my Wyre Coast-hugging walk. First stop was Cleveleys and its elaborate concrete promenade and sea defences, which have Brutalist and Communist era vibes.
The sea front is also peppered with art works, the most prominent being Mary’s Shell which was being lapped by the high tide.
It’s easy to stay at Cleveleys but I pressed on along the wide seaside path, an invigorating trudge around this nub of land. At the top is Rossall Point, hard to miss with its striking observation tower made for bird watchers.
Stark and minimalist
The path leads you to Fleetwood, a small seaside town with two lighthouses (one little, one large), the elegantly domed Marine Hall and a smattering of beach huts and a few dunes.
Fleetwood marks the northern end of the Blackpool tramway, so a convenient way to return – unless you’re feeling energetic and fancy walking back.
This stretch of coast was a welcome getaway from city life and a contrast the bright lights of Blackpool. Photographically it was quite stark and minimalist with eye-catching architecture.
So head to the Wyre Coast if you get the chance, you’ll enjoy the ride.
The ‘baby brother’ lighthouse at Fleetwood
mikeosbornphoto 
Love these! The “brutalist curves” don’t seem so brutal though in the seaside context, more like a natural flow with the waves, and also they go well with the seashell sculpture.
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Thanks Kiki! And yes I think you’re right about that one. Though as I walked the promenade I felt it wouldn’t have looked out of place in the GDR or USSR! ✊
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