Located just a short drive from one of the UK’s most iconic seaside spots is a town that many people overlook. However, it is full of independent shops, cute cafes and plenty to do, without the crowds you find in its famous neighbour. Lytham St Annes, consisting of the distinct towns of Lytham and St Annes, is just five miles from Blackpool, but is not nearly as famous. With its Victorian pier and a golden beach, it is a much more laid-back alternative to the nearby famous seaside city.
The top-rated thing to do in Lytham St Annes is St Annes Beach, which has been described by visitors as the perfect place for a relaxed stroll, with its long expanse of sand and its natural dunes. As opposed to Blackpool’s beaches, it has a much more relaxed vibe, especially when you don’t visit in the height of summer. However, it does attract a lot of locals when the sun comes out, and the area experiences one of the UK’s frequent heatwaves.
Lytham St Annes has a gorgeous beach (Image: Getty)
One TripAdvisor described the beach as “nice and quiet”, while another said it is always clean when they visit. “Always rangers patrolling, making sure it’s clean and making sure the no dog zone rule is being adhered to,” said another.
However, there is plenty more to do in Lytham St. Anne’s. Lytham Hall is also a highly-rated attraction in the town, making for a fun and insightful afternoon out. The Grade I listed Georgian country house is located within walking distance of Lytham town centre, and spans across a scenic 78 acres of historic grounds.
The afternoon tea there proves popular with visitors, but many people just visit the site to enjoy a walk through the grounds on a sunny summer’s day or a crisp autumn afternoon.
Other top-rated attractions in the area include St. Anne’s Pier, Lytham Gin Distillery, and Lytham Windmill.
Lytham St Annes has plenty of shopping opportunities (Image: Getty)
However, the number of independent shops in these towns should not be overlooked. Boutiques to check out include Lily the Pink and Saltrock.
Meanwhile, other standouts for independent shopping in Lytham St Annes include The Sweet Emporium, Mables Coffee and The Cheese Emporium. There are also some lovely cafes in Lytham St Annes, including The View Cafe on St Annes Pier, Beach Cafe Fylde, and Carriage Cafe, to name a few.
Social media users have often praised Lytham St Annes as a must-do when in the area. Comparing it to nearby Blackpool, one Reddit user said: “If you get a chance, head up to Lytham or St. Annes. Much nicer and less touristy but still have plenty of attractions.”
You’ll have less crowds here than in Blackpool (Image: Getty)
Meanwhile, locals previously told the Daily Express why they prefer the town to Blackpool. “It’s a lot different here, and it’s less frenetic,” said one local.
“We love it here. We’ve got the beach so close, and there are many nice places to walk. We come to the promenade basically every day, it’s lovely.”
Another said: “I think we’ve got one of the best beaches on this whole coastline. The people here are so friendly too which you don’t get everywhere else. It’s just a lovely place to come to.”
A third pointed out that the beach is always clean as there are volunteers who look after it regularly.