It’s easy to see why half of the comedy duo Morecambe and Wise adopted his hometown as his stage name. Famous for its stunning bay views and architectural heritage, Morecambe – much like Eric – deserves its status as a national treasure, and it’s easy to see why we consider it one of the best seaside destinations to visit.
Striking salt marshes and mudflats dominate the horizon – too dangerous to cross without a guide, but they can be admired from a safe distance.
The town has its origins as a Roman settlement, but was firmly established in the 19th century.
Graced with a Victorian pavilion, Art Deco hotels and a famous lido, there is plenty of architectural splendour to enjoy. Be sure to try the local potted shrimp!
Where to stay in Morecambe Bay
Sunnyside Camping & Caravan Site is a friendly, family-run campsite that is ideally located, just a 30-minute stroll away from Morecambe promenade. The site makes a great base for local exploration, because it is equidistant between Morecambe and Lancaster. It’s also dog-friendly and they allow BBQs.
Alternatively, you could consider Morecambe Lodge Caravan Park – with views across Morecambe Bay and direct access to the beach, this site enjoys a superb seaside location.
This is a rural campsite, a 10-minute drive away from the bustle of the busy town, so you can relax and unwind in nature after a long day of exploring.
If you’re embarking on day trips around the destination, make sure you know where you can park a campervan in the UK, too.
What to do in Morecambe Bay on Day 1
9.30am – Pacing the prom
Start your day with a stroll along the promenade, picking up a heritage trail leaflet from the Visitor Centre, the old Morecambe train station.
Learn about the architecture of iconic buildings as you walk along the seafront. The prom is also dotted with award-winning sculptures, celebrating local wildlife, until the end of 2024.
And you’d be wise not to miss a photo-op with the larger-than-life Eric Morecambe statue!
11am – Festival Market
Browse the Festival Market, which hosts more than 80 stalls featuring antiques, bric-a-brac and souvenirs, and is open every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, all year round.
The traditional covered market also has incredible views of the Lakeland hills, so it’s worth popping into one of the cafés if you’re not a shopper. Next door, check out events at The Platform, a beautifully restored Edwardian railway station now repurposed as a fabulous live entertainment venue.
1pm – Chow on chowder
Indulge in a hearty meal made from fresh catch of the day by Morecambe Bay Chowder Company, located at The Bath Tap, and on the prom in summer. A pandemic passion project that started out as a solar-powered tricycle, it is popular with the locals because of its delicious simplicity.
2pm – Tea for two?
Book a guided tour and a splendid afternoon tea at the enchanting Morecambe Winter Gardens, a glorious Grade II listed Victorian pavilion. The building has been partially reopened while undergoing restoration, so you can learn about the history of this major venue and how its legacy as an event space continues.
3.30pm – Birds over the bay
A 10-mile drive away is the breathtaking RSPB Leighton Moss reserve, where you can explore the wetlands and keep an eye out for wildlife. Inhabitants include otters, bearded tits, red deer and wildfowl.
Further afield within Arnside & Silverdale National Landscape, there are stunning reserves with views over the bay.
7pm – Trendy taverna
Return to the prom for traditional Greek cuisine at The Brasserie. This family-run restaurant is popular, so you’ll need to make a booking. Expect hearty homemade dishes, meze-style plates and herby dips.
What to do on Day 2
10am – Lancaster Castle
Take a 10-minute train ride to Lancaster and visit the North-West’s historic jewel, Lancaster Castle.
Guided tours offer an insight into the dark history of the medieval castle. Famous legal proceedings, including the notorious Pendle Witch Trials in 1612, were held
in the courtrooms here. You can easily while away a couple of hours touring the castle, and don’t miss the gruesome execution chambers and prison cells.
12pm – Cruising the canal
Soak up the views on a leisurely canal cruise passing the city’s sights, and catch a glimpse of the famous cathedral spire.
The tour takes you past the majestic Grade I listed Lune Aqueduct, offering an opportunity to reflect on its magnificence and enjoy its panoramic views.
2pm – Snack on shrimp
Back on the prom, swing by Edmonson’s Fresh Fish and sample their Morecambe delicacy – potted shrimps! Featured in Rick Stein’s Seafood Lovers’ Guide, this traditional shop offers a warm welcome and delicious locally sourced seafood.
3pm – Heysham Coast
Time to walk off some of that meal and enjoy a bracing two-mile walk along the seafront, and a visit to historic St Patrick’s Chapel and St Peter’s Church in Heysham. The ruined chapel towers dramatically over Morecambe Bay. It dates all the way back to the year 750, although local burial sites and evidence of Neotholic settlement, on display in Lancaster City Museum, reveal an even more impressive history.
Gazing out over the magnificent Irish Sea, it is awe-inspiring to imagine the characters from ancient times who might once have stood just here.
7pm – Final fish dish
Return to the promenade by the 2X bus – or you could walk if you are still feeling energetic. On Albert Road, at the seafront, finish your weekend break in true seaside style – with fish and chips!
A local favourite (for good reason), Atkinson’s Fish and Chips serves fresh fish classics and provides indoor dining for those colder days. Remember to top up with plenty of salt and vinegar!
For those of you who like being by water, but are after a different type of tour, take a look at our round-up of the best lakes, rivers and canals to visit in the UK.
After some more ideas for a weekend getaway? Then head to our Go Campervanning: Weekend Getaways section for more great ideas!
Lead image: Getty Images
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