Attractions and Places To See around Preesall - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Preesall, a town along the Wyre estuary in Lancashire, offer a blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty. The area features scenic coastal paths, the Wyre estuary, and various historical sites. Visitors can explore ancient halls, historic churches, and picturesque promenades, providing diverse options for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Preesall
- The most popular attractions is Glasson Dock Harbour, an other_man_made site that opened in 1787 and was once the busiest in the North West. Today, it is a delightful spot on the Lune Estuary with places to eat and drink.
- Another must-see spot is River Lune Millennium Cycle Path, a cycle_way stretching along the River Lune for 9 miles (15 km). This traffic-free path offers stunning views and interesting artwork along the way.
- Visitors also love Plover Scar Lighthouse, a man_made_monument standing watch over the entrance to the Lune Estuary. Built in 1847, this 8-meter-high white conical stone tower is a conspicuous landmark on the Lancashire coastline.
- Preesall is known for its historical sites, natural features, and walking trails. The area offers a variety of attractions, from ancient halls and historic churches to coastal paths and scenic viewpoints.
- The attractions around Preesall are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 60 upvotes and 13 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Glasson Dock Harbour
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Today, the village is a delightful spot on the Lune Estuary. There are a number of places to eat and drink, as well as fantastic walking in the surrounding countryside and along the coastal paths.
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Cartford Toll Bridge
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River Lune Millennium Cycle Path
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Wyre Estuary Ferry
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Cabin Lift, Blackpool
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II A seaside lift tower of 1930 known as the Cabin Lift, associated toilets and upper promenade wall built to a design by the borough architect John Charles Robinson.
MATERIALS: Brick with faience dressings beneath a copper roof to the lift tower.
PLAN: The Cabin Lift is rectangular in plan.
EXTERIOR: The lift tower is in a Classical revival style and is accessed from the upper promenade by a bridge that is flanked by brick walls to either side which extend along the promenade. The main architectural detail is arranged at the top of the tower at the upper promenade level, and consists of a pyramidal copper roof with central flagpole, beneath which a moulded faience eaves cornice above a decorated frieze depicting a festoon is carried around the structure. On three sides of the tower there are aedicules, with the one facing the sea flanked by decorative faience work. Double doors beneath a porch on Queens Promenade give access across the bridge to the tower, with a former second entrance adjacent now blocked by glazed brickwork incorporating the words 'CABIN LIFT'. There are small rectangular windows to three sides of the tower with moulded faience surrounds. At the artificial cliff level there are two blocked doors beneath a stone lintel. The lower promenade entrance has two doors beneath a glazed brick lintel bearing the word 'LIFT' above the larger of the doors. Immediately beneath the upper promenade there is a toilet block with boarded-up doors to the north and south returns. The toilet block consists of ten bays with mullion and transom windows with glazing bars and horizontal faience banding.
INTERIOR: Access from the Queens Promenade leads directly into a small room containing the lift and a door leading to a fixed iron ladder giving access up to the attic where electrical equipment and the lift mechanism is contained. Access from the left door on the lower promenade leads along a tunnel beneath the artificial cliff to the lift whilst access from the right door leads into a storage area. A modern inserted brick wall separates the two areas. Other walls in the lower promenade tunnel are of glazed brick.
HISTORY: The Cabin Lift was built in 1930 to a design by John Charles Robinson, Blackpool Borough Surveyor, for the purpose of moving passengers via two lifts between the upper promenade tram stop and the lower promenade walkway, artificial cliffs and former boating pool. The front portion of the building that formerly contained a waiting shelter on the upper promenade and extended across a bridge to the lift shaft has been demolished at an unspecified date and access to the south lift has been walled up. The current north lift was installed in 1990 and replaced an original lift. Ladies and Gentleman's toilets built into the cliff immediately below the upper promenade and formerly accessed by walkways to either side of the cabin lift were refitted in the 1970s; they are currently boarded up and inaccessible. The former doors giving access into the lift tower from the artificial cliffs have been bricked up. On the lower promenade the former doors giving access into a tunnel that runs below the artificial cliffs to the lift tower have been removed and this entrance remodelled with modern smaller doors inserted. The tunnel has been subdivided at an unspecified date by the insertion of a dividing wall along its length and currently only the northern part of the tunnel gives access to the lift.
SOURCES: Allan Brodie & Gary Winter, England's Seaside Resorts. (2007)
REASONS FOR DESIGNATION: The Cabin Lift is designated at Grade II for the following principal reasons: * It is a nationally rare type of seaside structure that is of interest as part of the history and development of certain seaside resorts * It is of a well-executed design and uses good-quality material to good effect that can be particularly appreciated from the upper promenade * It is a conspicuous and eye-catching structure especially when viewed to maximum effect from the lower promenade * The Cabin Lift's architectural merit contributes significantly to Blackpool's importance as a holiday resort of national and international renown.
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Cartford Bridge is a single-track toll bridge in the English county of Lancashire. Built in 1831, it spans the River Wyre, connecting Little Eccleston-with-Larbreck, in the Borough of Fylde, on the southern side of the river, to Out Rawcliffe, in the Borough of Wyre, on its northern side (known locally as "Over Wyre"), carrying both automotive and pedestrian traffic of Cartford Lane. The tolls are £1 for vehicles exceeding five tonnes, 70p for vehicles exceeding two tonnes, 60p for motorised vehicles not exceeding two tonnes, and 20p for two-wheeled vehicles.
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Cartford Bridge is a single-track toll bridge in the English county of Lancashire. Built in 1831, it spans the River Wyre, connecting Little Eccleston-with-Larbreck, in the Borough of Fylde, on the southern side of the river, to Out Rawcliffe, in the Borough of Wyre, on its northern side (known locally as "Over Wyre"), carrying both automotive and pedestrian traffic of Cartford Lane. The tolls are £1 for vehicles exceeding five tonnes, 70p for vehicles exceeding two tonnes, 60p for motorised vehicles not exceeding two tonnes, and 20p for two-wheeled vehicles.
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The harbour at Glasson originally opened in 1787, following the demise of Lancaster as a port, and was at its height the largest port in the north west, importing cotton, sugar, spices and slaves from Africa and the Indies. Its connection to the Lancaster Canal was important in allowing the distribution of cargo landed at the port into the heart of industrial Lancashire. Glasson is still active today, handling over 150,000 tonnes of cargo annually.
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The Knott-End ferry is a great way to bridge a Morecambe Bay coastal ride from Fleetwood to Knott End, Preesall, Pilling and beyond. Sailing times for any given day are posted on the Fleetwood to Knott End Ferry Facebook page. - Sails at 15mins past and to the hour within the tidal sailing window. This can be unreliable on bad/rough weather days however. - Fares are one-way and cash only 2024 FARE EDIT (Each way): Passengers(including OAPs, Adults and children): £2.50 Babies: £1.50 Bikes: £0.50p Dogs: £0.50p
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Cartford bridge is a great crossing point from Great Eccleston to the Over Wyre coast
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Preesall?
Preesall and its surroundings offer a rich history. You can visit Plover Scar Lighthouse, a conspicuous 19th-century landmark at the entrance to the Lune Estuary. Glasson Dock Harbour, once the busiest in the North West, also has a significant past. Beyond these, explore local landmarks like Parrox Hall, Hackensall Hall, St Oswald's Church, and The Mount, which is home to the Preesall War Memorial and local legends of a Viking chieftain.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Preesall area?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Glasson Dock Harbour is a delightful spot with places to eat and drink, suitable for all ages. For a fun day out, consider Farmer Parrs Animal World, a farm park with animals, indoor play areas, and tractor rides. The annual Preesall and Knott End Gala, held on the second Saturday in July, also offers family entertainment with a visiting funfair.
Where can I enjoy scenic views and natural beauty near Preesall?
Preesall is situated along the beautiful Wyre Estuary, offering many scenic spots. The Knott End-on-Sea Promenade provides stunning views of Morecambe Bay, the Forest of Bowland, the Lakeland hills, and the Irish Sea. You can also take leisurely strolls along Preesall Beach and the Sea Wall, or visit Preesall Park for green spaces. The Flashes, formed by salt mining subsidence, offer unique natural landscapes.
What cycling routes are available around Preesall?
For cyclists, the River Lune Millennium Cycle Path is a fantastic traffic-free option, stretching for 9 miles (15 km) along the River Lune with stunning views and artwork. You can find more cycling opportunities, including MTB trails, by exploring the dedicated guide for MTB Trails around Preesall.
Are there any walking or hiking trails near Preesall?
Absolutely. The Knott End-on-Sea Promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls. The Wyre Way is a footpath that guides visitors along the River Wyre, offering views of the Lancashire countryside. An alternative walking route exists along a disused railway track between Hackensall Road and Park Lane, or along the sea wall to Fluke Hall. For more structured options, check out the Easy hikes around Preesall guide.
What is the significance of Glasson Dock Harbour?
Glasson Dock Harbour, which opened in 1787, was historically the busiest harbour in the North West, importing goods from Africa and the Indian Subcontinent. Today, it's a charming village on the Lune Estuary, known for its picturesque setting, places to eat and drink, and opportunities for walking along coastal paths.
Can I find any unique landmarks or monuments in the area?
Beyond the historical halls, you can find unique landmarks such as the Millennium Clock and Battle of Britain Memorial in Barton Square. The Preesall Windmill is also noted as a historical landmark. Additionally, the Cartford Toll Bridge is an interesting structure, requiring a small toll for cyclists.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Preesall?
Besides walking and cycling, you can enjoy golf at the Knott End Golf Club, which offers an 18-hole course with scenic views. The Wyre Estuary provides opportunities for invigorating hikes. For a different perspective, consider taking the historic Fleetwood to Knott End Ferry across the River Wyre. You can also find various running routes in the area by consulting the Running Trails around Preesall guide.
What is Plover Scar Lighthouse?
Plover Scar Lighthouse is an 8-meter-high white conical stone tower built in 1847. It stands as a significant landmark guarding the entrance to the Lune Estuary. It's notable for being cut off from land at high tide and for its resilience, having been repaired after a collision with a commercial vessel in 2016.
Are there places to eat and drink near the attractions?
Yes, the village centre of Preesall offers a variety of independent shops, cozy cafés, and traditional pubs. Specifically, around Glasson Dock Harbour, there are a number of places to eat and drink. The Knott End-on-Sea Promenade also has options for refreshments.
What is the Wyre Estuary known for?
The Wyre Estuary, where Preesall is situated, is known for its natural beauty and offers opportunities for invigorating hikes and peaceful moments in nature. It's a significant natural feature that shapes the landscape and provides habitats for wildlife, making it ideal for those seeking outdoor exploration and scenic views.
Can I find art or cultural displays in Preesall?
Yes, The Gallery, located along the Esplanade, displays paintings and artwork that showcase the local area. This venue provides an opportunity to appreciate the region's artistic interpretations and cultural expressions.
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