Christopher Megrath visited the beautiful seaside town with windmills, boutique cafés and top restaurant

It's a charming coastal town that has everything you need for a peaceful retreat - and it quickly became one of my favourite places after just one visit. A short drive from two of the UK's largest cities, this tranquil destination boasts boutique cafes, top-rated eateries, and even two of the country's best fish and chip shops.

Lytham is a delightful seaside town in Lancashire, renowned for its community spirit, serene beach, and picturesque park. Each year, it bursts into life with the Lytham Festival, attracting some of the biggest names in music, with recent headliners including Stevie Wonder, Justin Timberlake, Alanis Morrissette, and Kings of Leon.

I might have overlooked this gem, but I wouldn't exchange my visit for anything. The trip left me feeling rejuvenated, revitalised, and considering trading my city lifestyle for a spot by the sea.

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My partner and I stayed at the Queens Pub and Hotel, a Victorian Grade II listed building with stunning views over Lytham Green. This centuries-old accommodation was the ideal resting place, and there was plenty to keep us entertained throughout the evening with its vibrant outdoor beer garden.

The Queens Pub and Hotel in Lytham

The decor was timeless, featuring a four-poster bed, ornate wooden furniture, and a subdued colour scheme that made me feel as though I had stepped into a monochrome photograph. When I wasn't out and about, I enjoyed watching the endless stream of runners and dog walkers from the window.

Lytham's town centre may be small - a leisurely stroll can take you from one end to the other in mere minutes. However, what it lacks in size, it more than compensates for with its charm and quality businesses.

The Clifton Walk Shopping Arcade provides a delightful back-alley experience for those on the hunt for gifts, cards or street food. It's been a while since I've come across an arcade so well-maintained and bustling with people, which only reinforces the town's enduring appeal.

Clifton Street is full of charming shops and cafes

The cafes were brimming with customers, leaving me spoilt for choice on where to sit. Popular spots like Apricot and Central Beach had brunch enthusiasts lining up outside, but I eventually settled on a hearty chicken and bacon ciabatta at Trevino Lounge, perfect for people-watching.

Lytham is also home to two of the nation's top fish and chip shops, Whelan's and The Haven, as recently recognised by The Times. The town centre is adorned with flowers, trees, and lush greenery, fostering a laid-back ambiance where everyone seemed unhurried, allowing me to savour every moment.

During my visit, there was a free ice cream festival taking place in Lowther Gardens, which naturally piqued my curiosity. Although smaller and more intimate than most food and drink events, I spent a pleasant half hour browsing the craft stalls, relishing the tantalising food aromas in the air, and simply appreciating the picturesque surroundings.

Lowther Gardens ice cream festival

There was an abundance of entertainment for the little ones, with funfair rides and activities for all ages. Despite a smattering of light showers during my visit, the high spirits of everyone remained undampened.

I spent the majority of my time meandering through the town, taking in the picturesque scenery and delighting in the hidden gems discovered on my wanderings. It was incredibly rejuvenating to switch off the mobile and immerse oneself in this quaint community, seemingly detached from the rest of the world.

As dusk fell, my partner and I found ourselves at the Ship and Royal pub, a traditional establishment that offered us a glimpse into the town's vibrant nightlife. The once tranquil seaside town undergoes a transformation after sundown, with locals pouring out of pubs and beer gardens.

Lytham was a dreamy getaway

I was genuinely taken aback by just how lively the scene could be.

Lytham is a fantastic spot for a tipple but, unsurprisingly, it's not the destination for a nightclub crawl. However, I still thoroughly enjoyed the pints and cocktails I indulged in over the weekend, and I found the locals more than happy to engage in conversation.

We chose to spend the bulk of our Saturday evening dining at Lytham's go-to eatery, Lytham House. With an AA Rosette to its name, the brasserie features stunning interiors spread across two floors, with a bustling cocktail bar keeping guests entertained into the night.

Inside AA Rosette awarded restaurant, Lytham House

The menu provides a modern take on British classics, catering to even the fussiest of eaters. I opted for a surf and turf combination featuring oysters, scallops, and spiced duck as my main course, but my indulgent side craved a bit of everything.

From the warm greeting and enchanting surroundings to the perfectly cooked pink duck, the experience certainly lived up to the venue's reputation.

You might think that a nighttime stroll home would be unremarkable, but there was still beauty to be found. The Lytham Windmill Museum springs to life after dark, bathed in a gentle pink light that draws your gaze from miles away along the coast.

Lytham Windmill and Museum

We deliberately walked past our hotel just to get a closer look - and it was well worth it.

Lytham felt like a retreat into a world apart from the rest of society. Time seemed to slow down and everything felt more laid-back, as if there were no worries at all.

The landscape was stunning and there was plenty to see and do for tourists or casual visitors like myself.

And let's not even begin discussing the grand houses that have been preserved from modern refurbishments to become multi-storey flats or B&Bs. Owning a property overlooking Lytham Green would be akin to hitting the jackpot.

This tranquil seaside town should be high on your list of places to visit.

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