Summer days call for messing about on the river or dipping your toes in the sea. Whether you want to dive in for a swim, lie back in a pedalo or while away an hour by the water, we have something for you
Boating and watersports
Cheers to a canal cruise
Slow down and enjoy a more leisurely pace of life to fully appreciate the stunning scenery along Lancashire’s waterways. Lancashire Canal Cruises offer daily ‘Afternoon Tea cruises’ where you will be welcomed with a sparkling tipple before tucking into sumptuous finger sandwiches, cream scones and tasty cakes all washed down with tea or coffee. As you meander along the historic Leeds Liverpool Canal you will feel the stresses of daily life just wash away. lancashirecanalcruises.co.uk
Get crafty on the water
Take your pick of craft at Chorley’s Anderton Centre and get out on the water under the guidance of expert coaches. Whether you are a complete beginner or want to build up your confidence and ability, there is a session for you. Pick up a paddleboard, or choose a canoe or kayak and the water awaits. The outdoor learning centre also offers an accessible wheelyboat for all to enjoy sailing on the Lower Rivington Reservoir. andertoncentre.co.uk
Take to the lake
With Blackstone Edge providing dramatic scenery, Hollingworth Lake is certainly a picture perfect location for watersports. The Activity Centre offers a host of water-based sessions for enthusiasts of all levels. Savour the surroundings from a pedalo, take the helm of a mini electric boat or float along on a stand-up paddleboard - the choice is yours. The centre also runs a six week sailing course for people who are blind or visually impaired. yourtrustrochdale.co.uk/venues/hollingworth-lake-water-activity-centre
Water play and splash parks
Get in the zone
Every parent knows just how much children just love to jump in puddles and generally mess about in the water. Splash Park Zone in Lytham St Anne's offers a ready made giant water park. Aimed at children aged 3 to 12 years, the Zone has spray features for children to run through and enjoy getting thoroughly wet! There is plenty of seating for supervising adults. discoverfylde.co.uk/splashparkzone
Water, water everywhere
At the heart of Morecamble lies the green oasis that is Happy Mount Park which includes its very own splash area which guarantees a fun-filled soaking. With a water arch, tipping buckets, sensor-activated water jets and spray cannons, you are not escaping the water in the splash area! It is the perfect place to cool off while playing in the summer sun. The zone is wheelchair accessible and open to children of all abilities. happymountpark.co.uk/attractions/splash-park/
Make a splash
A splashing time awaits at Marine Splash and Paddling Pool based at Fleetwood Leisure Centre. Water jets and water tunnels are waiting to be discovered along with fountains to frolic in. For younger children there is a paddling pool area and parents can watch their little ones from the cafe with a viewing area. visitfleetwood.info/about/seafront/marine-beach-marine-splash-and-paddling-pool
Coastal and lake activities
Boats and birds by the sea
Water enthusiasts and bird lovers are in for a treat with a visit to Fairhaven Lake in Lytham. The salt water lake has been a popular attraction for decades and is a haven for birdwatchers and is the home of RSPB Fairhaven Lake. If you want to take to the water, there is the chance to try kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding or pick up your oars and go out in a rowing boat. new.fylde.gov.uk/resident/parks-and-gardens/fairhaven-lake-and-gardens/
Meander at the marine
Pack a picnic, grab a book and treat yourself to a leisurely afternoon on the shores of Southport Marine Lake. There are promenades and gardens to explore and you can take a stroll along part of the perimeter of the 140 acre purpose built lake before finding the perfect spot for an alfresco lunch and well-deserved rest. From the lakeside, you can watch the activity on the lake from the comfort of your picnic blanket. visitsouthport.com/listing/southport-marine-lake/5700201/
Get crabby this summer
Two boating lakes, joined by a bridge, provide fun for all the family on a visit to Fleetwood. Crabbing is a hugely popular pastime here so remember to pack a bucket, some garden string and something tasty to tempt the crabs. The larger lake has an island in it and the smaller model yacht pond is a spectacle to see when it is used by the local model yacht and power boat club. visitfleetwood.info/about/seafront/boating-lakes
Wild swimming
Take a dip
The gentle rippling waters of the River Hodder invite you to take a swim at the popular spot of Stonyhurst Dip. The historic wild swimming place was made famous for being where the Stonyhurst schoolboys bathed and swam. If you are looking for a tranquil stretch of water, this is ideal. Dippers are advised to swim upstream of the weir. After a refreshing and relaxing swim, why not get adventurous and go looking for the nearby abandoned bathing sheds?
See the wood for the trees
Immerse yourself fully in nature with a wild swim at Marles Wood on the Ribble River. Located on the edge of the Forest of Bowland, the flowing water and woodland surroundings will soothe both body and soul. The wide, deep waters mean this is a location better suited to confident swimmers who will come out of the water feeling invigorated.
Gadding about in the water
Intrepid swimmers can head to Gaddings Dam near Todmorden for a really wild dip where you are truly exposed to the elements. The dam has a sandy beach which is claimed to be the highest in England. The dam can be accessed through a number of different walking routes so it makes for a wonderful hike and swim experience. Brave the chilly water for a swim not to be forgotten.
It’s all going swimmingly
Denny Beck is a smaller stretch of the picturesque River Lune that attracts swimmers who love to be outdoors. It is a great swimming spot for nature lovers too as wildlife abounds all along the riverbanks. Head towards Halton Bridge where the gentle rapids make for an enjoyable swim - it is easy to see why this is a popular meeting place for local swimming groups.
Fishing spots
Angling for fun
A day’s fishing can be a wonderful way to wind down and enjoy being in the fresh air with only the fishing rod to concentrate on. Wyre Parks Fishery in Scorton has three lakes to choose from for your day’s fishing. The Quarry Lake is stocked with carp ranging from 10 to 30 pounds, while Wharf Lake is a mixed coarse fishing lake with a limited 20 pegs. There is also a match lake on site which has been beautifully landscaped. wyreparksfishery.co.uk
Go fly fishing
In the shadow of Beacon Fell Country Park lies Barnsfold Waters Trout Fishery where fly fishing enthusiasts can cast on two lakes, both around 11 acres in size. The site is fly fishing only and both lakes offer superb bank fishing. The variety of trout include rainbow, brown, blues and tiger trout. For those wanting to enhance their skills, casting lessons are available. barnsfoldwaters.co.uk
We’re all going on a fishing holiday
Moss Wood Fishing Lakes in Cockerham are handily located within the caravan park making it an ideal place for a fishing holiday. Whether it’s a solo trip or a mates get together, the lakes are just minutes away from touring pitches and caravan holiday homes. Anglers can expect (or hope) to catch carp, tench, roach, bream and rudd. Get packing for a holiday with a difference. mosswood.co.uk/facilities/coarse-fishing-lake
Nature walks and water views
Waterfall walk
Put on your walking boots and fill a flask. The great Lancashire scenery is there to explore. Yarrow Valley Country Park in Chorley is a must-see destination if you want to walk in the wonderful grounds with paths meandering through woodland and trails along the River Yarrow. Different routes offer walks of varying lengths where you can enjoy lakeside views. Make sure you listen out for the waterfall too. The 700 acre park is packed with flora and fauna - little ones will love ticking off the different species of birds and mini beasts they can see.
Another place to be
Sea views and artworks combine on Crosby Beach. Antony Gormley’s ‘Another Place’ art installation is famous worldwide with 100 cast iron statues placed along 3km of the beach. Set off from Waterloo and stroll along the shore. With the expansive views and sandy dunes it makes for an interesting walk at any time. If you are a sunset lover, why not go for an evening amble. It is popular with visitors thanks to the Bus Yard beach bar on the promenade next to Marine Lake. Choose from cocktails and coffee or tuck into burgers and loaded fries as you watch the sun go down.
More to come
The walk from Morecambe to Heysham is a route filled with coastal wonder with a history lesson thrown in for free. The promenade route is around four and a half miles long and regular buses mean you can get back to your starting point without having to retrace your steps. Ramblers, cyclists and dog walkers share the wide promenade space and as well as looking out to see, it is worth looking down too. All along the promenade are paving stones with historical facts and figures about the area.
