Is Morecambe good for a traditional beach holiday?
Yes, Morecambe offers a traditional British seaside experience with its sandy beaches, a long promenade, and family-friendly amusements. It's known for seaside fun, stunning views of Morecambe Bay and the Lakeland hills, and attractions like the Eric Morecambe statue.
Can you swim in the sea at Morecambe?
Yes, it is possible to swim in the sea at Morecambe's beaches. However, there is no lifeguard service, and swimmers should be cautious of fast-moving tides, rip tides, and strong currents. It's always recommended to check tide times and weather forecasts before entering the water.
What is the water quality like at Morecambe beaches?
The water quality at Morecambe North and South beaches has recently been classified as 'sufficient' for bathing. Both beaches have received Seaside Awards for their management and facilities. However, there are ongoing calls to further improve water quality, which can be affected by various pollution sources, especially after heavy rainfall.
Are Morecambe beaches safe regarding tides and quicksand?
Morecambe Bay is notorious for its fast-moving tides and quicksand, making it dangerous to walk far out on the sands, especially during low tide. The tidal range is very large. Visitors should exercise extreme caution, stay informed about tide times, and avoid venturing onto the extensive mudflats without proper guidance.
Are dogs allowed on Morecambe beaches?
Dogs are allowed on many areas of Morecambe's coastline. However, there are restrictions on Morecambe North and South beaches, where dogs are not allowed from May 1st to September 30th to comply with Seaside Award standards and maintain water quality. Outside these zones and dates, dogs are generally welcome, but should be kept on leads on the promenade.
What's the best time of year to visit Morecambe for a beach trip?
The summer months, particularly July and August, are generally considered the best time for a traditional beach trip to Morecambe, with average maximum temperatures around 19°C, potentially reaching higher during heatwaves. However, Morecambe can be enjoyed in other seasons too, especially for walks and enjoying the views, with autumn offering a quieter experience.
Is Morecambe beach suitable for families with children?
Yes, Morecambe is considered a family-friendly destination. The beaches offer opportunities for sandcastle building, paddling, and kite flying. The promenade has amusements, cafes, and the nearby Happy Mount Park offers additional attractions for children.
What are the main beaches in Morecambe and are they different?
Morecambe's main beaches are North Beach and South Beach. Both are sandy and popular, forming part of the town's five-mile coastline. North Beach is known for views of the Lake District skyline and is close to the Eric Morecambe statue. South Beach is also sandy and backed by sea defences, often considered slightly less crowded. Both have seasonal dog restrictions.
How do Morecambe's beaches compare to Blackpool's?
Morecambe offers a more tranquil, traditional seaside experience with expansive views across the bay to the Lake District, focusing on its promenade and natural scenery. Blackpool is known for its vibrant, high-energy attractions, piers, and larger scale amusements. While both are Lancashire seaside towns, Morecambe is generally considered quieter.
What facilities are available at Morecambe beaches?
Morecambe's beaches are backed by a long promenade with facilities including cafes, ice cream parlours, fish and chip shops, public toilets, and amusement arcades. There are art installations along the prom, and the restored Midland Hotel is a notable landmark. Parking is available near the seafront.
Where can I park when visiting Morecambe beaches?
There are several car parks near Morecambe's beaches and promenade, including Bay Arena Car Park and Marine Road Car Park. On-street parking is also available but can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Some supermarkets also offer bookable parking spaces.
Are there any quieter or alternative beaches near Morecambe?
Yes, besides Morecambe's main North and South beaches, nearby options include Half Moon Bay (Heysham Sands), which is dog-friendly year-round and offers coastal walks. Silverdale Cove, part of the Arnside and Silverdale AONB, provides a more rugged experience with footpaths, caves, and rock pools.
What is there to do on Morecambe beaches besides sunbathing and swimming?
Apart from traditional beach activities, Morecambe Bay is popular for walking along the promenade, kite flying, bird watching (due to its vast intertidal flats), and exploring art installations like the TERN Project. Some also engage in watersports like kite surfing, though caution with tides is essential.
How accessible are Morecambe's beaches for those with mobility issues?
Morecambe's promenade is generally flat and paved, making it accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Access to the sandy beach itself can vary. Some areas, like near the concrete boat ramps on North Beach, may offer easier access to the sand, especially at high tide.
Are there any specific local foods or delicacies associated with Morecambe Bay beaches?
Morecambe Bay is famous for its potted shrimps, a local delicacy. These small brown shrimps are traditionally cooked in spiced butter and often served with brown bread and lemon. You can find them in local eateries and shops.
