Rediscovering Childhood Memories on England's Lancashire Coast
It is a curious aspect of human memory how some recollections fade quickly while others endure with surprising clarity. Many of us find it challenging to recall the events of last week, yet vivid images from decades past can replay in our minds as if they happened yesterday. This phenomenon is at the heart of a personal journey to the Lancashire coast in England, where a writer retraces hazy but happy childhood memories from the 1980s.
A Journey Back in Time
The quest begins with a train ride to Lytham, a quaint town on the South Fylde Line, which stretches approximately 40 kilometers between Preston and Blackpool South. Unlike the bustling seaside resort of Blackpool, Lytham offers a more genteel and laid-back atmosphere, with its charming centre adorned with flower pots, tidy stores, hotels, bistros, and tearooms. Despite its tranquil vibe, Lytham is not without its share of entertainment and celebrity allure.
Each July, the town hosts an annual multi-day music festival on The Green, a lovely grassy expanse that separates the town centre from the waterfront. This event attracts globally-renowned stars, though unpredictable weather can sometimes lead to cancellations, as was the case with Alanis Morissette this year due to high winds from the Irish Sea. However, performers like Stevie Wonder, Justin Timberlake, Simple Minds, and Texas have graced the stage on calmer days.
Exploring the Coastal Promenade
From Lytham, the journey continues northwards along a scenic promenade that skirts mudflats and salt marshes where the River Ribble meets the Irish Sea. With the tide receding, little wooden boats rest beached on sand and pebbles, creating a picturesque scene. The promenade is a popular spot for walkers of all ages and cyclists, including kids, middle-aged couples, and solo pensioners, who whistle past as they enjoy the coastal path.
As the path winds between Granny's Bay and Fairhaven Lake, an inland saltwater leisure spot, visitors can observe swans gliding gracefully while rowing boats, pedalos, and canoes are available for hire. Behind the lake lies the prestigious Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club, a course that has hosted major events like the Ryder Cup and Open Championship multiple times, with past winners including legends such as Tony Jacklin, Gary Player, and Seve Ballesteros.
Finding the Fabled Beach
After an hour or so of walking, the destination becomes clear upon reaching St Annes on the Sea, a resort founded in the 1870s with the arrival of the railway. Also known as Lytham St Annes, this area is characterized by tufted grass, wooden huts, and gently rolling sand dunes that descend to a vast, sun-kissed beach. It is here that the childhood memory of walking barefoot across dunes onto a sandy beach, backdropped by a glistening sea, is vividly recalled.
Families dot the shoreline, with parents and grandparents relaxing on towels and deck chairs while children play with soccer balls, buckets, and spades. The scene is one of simple, joyful coastal life, evoking a sense of nostalgia and connection to the past.
Victorian Charm and Modern Delights
St Anne's pier, a Victorian relic completed in 1885 and extending nearly 200 meters into the sea, offers a glimpse into the area's history. While it lacks the thrill rides of Blackpool's piers, it features a cafe, a small covered amusements area, and outdoor boardwalks. The breeze from the pier provides a refreshing respite as visitors gaze over the sprawling sands exposed by the low tide.
For those seeking further exploration, the promenade and bike paths extend to Blackpool, with its iconic Eiffel-esque tower about 7 kilometers away, and even further to Fleetwood at the northern tip of the Fylde coast. However, many choose to linger in St Annes, which boasts a flower-brightened park called Ashton Gardens and fine dining, drinking, and shopping options.
Reflections and a Caffeine Boost
As the day winds down, a visit to Wood Street Coffee in St Annes offers a perfect caffeine pick-me-up. This cafe bakes its own focaccia, cookies, and cinnamon rolls, sourcing beans from Exchange Coffee, a long-time Lancashire dealer. Sitting at an outdoor table, the writer reflects on the joy of rediscovering that fabled beach and dunes, while savoring a coffee that surpasses anything likely available in 1980s St Annes.
This journey not only reconnects with cherished childhood memories but also highlights the enduring appeal of the Lancashire coast, where history, natural beauty, and community spirit blend seamlessly. Whether for a nostalgic trip or a new adventure, Lytham and St Annes offer a timeless escape by the sea.
