Things to do on an overnight trip to Morecambe

Brucciani’s is an institution, supplying the people of Morecambe with ice cream since 1893. Now, you might think breakfast at an ice cream parlour is an odd choice (and there’s no judgement if you do fancy a Knickerbocker Glory for brekkie!) but Brucciani's menu also features dishes such as bacon and egg buns too. The Art Deco interior and preserved porthole lamps above the doors perfectly capture Morecambe’s seaside charm, with every bite bringing back a sense of nostalgia. Besides, thanks to its handy seafront location, you can always pop back in for an ice cream later in the day. It’s only right. 

Make your way from Brucciani’s to bowl off your breakfast. With sleek wooden lanes and cosy seating areas, the boutique bowling alley is a stylish place for a game (or two). If you’re striking lucky, or in spare despair, why not mix things up with a game of table football or pool too? There’s nothing like a bit of friendly competition to start the day.  

Morecambe Bay is famous for its diverse wildlife, including various species of birds. Get closer to the area’s feathery friends by following the TERN Art Project, a free art trail on the seafront and the promenade. Spot the striking steel cormorants, gannets and razorbills that sit proudly on top of the bollards in the sea railings, work out wordy puzzles on the Stone Jetty, and snap a selfie with the town’s favourite son, Eric Morecambe. A larger-than-life statue of the iconic entertainer, who took his stage name from his beloved hometown, was unveiled by Queen Elizabeth II in 1999.  Pop by the Morecambe Visitor Information Centre to pick up a trail guide to discover all the hidden joys of the TERN Art Project.  

You’ll be familiar with the Stone Jetty as part of your exploration of the TERN Art Project Trail. The historic landmark was built in the 1850s to serve as a railway terminus for Irish and Scottish ferries. Now, it’s the setting for a scenic lunch. Grab a sandwich, toastie, or a portion of chips from the Stone Jetty Café for just a couple of quid and enjoy the sights and sounds of Morecambe Bay as you refuel. Don’t forget to check the daily specials board. 

Head to a certified coastal curiosity – The Old Pier Bookshop. This second-hand, family-run bookseller, best described as ‘organised chaos’, is a bibliophile’s dream. It’s home to more than 100,000 plus stock stacked high on genre-specific shelves. Clear passage through this literary maze is often obstructed, so be prepared to search high and low for what you’re after. Or simply enjoy the adventure of exploring each corner of this delightful shop. Who knows, you might stumble across your next favourite novel. 

With a bagful of books in tow, make the short walk over to one of Morecambe’s most spectacular buildings, the Winter Gardens. The venue opened in 1897 and has played host to some of the 20^th century’s biggest stars, including Vera Lynn and The Rolling Stones. Much of the original building was demolished in the 1980s but thanks to the tremendous efforts of the locals, the Victorian Pavilion Theatre still stands proud. Exciting times lie ahead for the Winter Gardens, with ambitious restoration work having already taken place. To get a backstage look at the theatre, including the remarkably detailed ceiling, behind the scenes tours can be booked on select weekends for £10 per person. 

The Midland Hotel is another of Morecambe’s iconic Art Deco buildings. It overlooks Morecambe Bay, meaning your bedroom for the night is guaranteed to have front row seats to some spectacular seaside views. After you’re settled into your room, make your way to The Midland restaurant for a well-deserved dinner. You’ll struggle to find Fish and Chips with a better view anywhere in Lancashire than at The Midland. A post-dinner tipple at the Rotunda bar with its show-stopping chandelier is on the menu, so sip on some cocktails as you spot the peaks of the Lake District in the distance.  

There aren’t many venues in the country more unique than The Platform, a former Edwardian railway station that has been transformed into an impressive live entertainment space. Since its reinvention in 1997, The Platform has helped stars like Jason Manford, Dara Ó Briain and Ohmid Djalili embark on their comedy journeys. Nowadays you can still catch top-class comedy there, as well as quality live music. Check the event timetable before your departure and end the night watching a performance that will make you stop in your tracks. 

Happy Mount Park is Morecambe Bay’s ultimate family-friendly destination, with countless action-packed attractions guaranteed to keep all ages entertained. Will you dare take on the challenge of the pirate-themed adventure golf? Don’t worry, you won’t have to walk the plank if you don’t get a hole in one! Or will you decide to bounce off some extra energy on the outdoor trampolines? If you prefer gentler pace, you can always take a ride on the traditional roundabout.