If you like architecture and shopping, this UK seaside town just seven miles from Blackpool could be for you. But a recent survey has plunged it into an unfavourable light
A family friendly seaside town in northern England has been named among the worst in the country, but a huge regeneration plan hopes to put it back on the map.
Despite its picturesque views in Lancashire, and its Art Deco theatre, Fleetwood was ranked 15th out of 20 in a new UK seaside town ranking by consumer experts at Which? Making up its less than impressive score, it was rated just two stars for its beaches, and just one star for its food scene and tourist attractions.
TripAdvisor reviews do offer a mixed bag of reviews, with one labelling the promenade “tidy and well presented”. But another summed up their experience which echoes more of Which?’s ratings. It said: “Apart from a couple of cafes, there is literally nothing to do. We had a nice walk that was very peaceful. Just amazed at how there really is nothing there.”
There’s no escaping the fact that Fleetwood has had a fluctuating reputation over the years – but a comeback could be on the horizon. A £16 million masterplan is set to transform the town in the coming years, but before its proposed tourism boom, staycationers can lap up hotel prices of just £66, which is among the cheapest in the list compiled by Which?
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What does Fleetwood actually have to offer?
Fleetwood is relatively small, with just over 25,000 residents as previously reported by The Express. The town enjoyed a massive expansion in the early 20th century thanks to a growing fishing industry and the arrival of passenger ferries.
One of the key highlights of the resort town is, despite their brutal ranking, the beaches. Rossall Beach is ideal for those looking for seclusion. However, if you’re in the mood for outdoor activities, Marine Beach has a livelier atmosphere, with shops and restaurants nearby.
Despite its seaside proximity, Fleetwood is regularly overshadowed by its famous neighbour: Blackpool. Blackpool continues to be named one of the best budget-friendly seaside resorts in the UK – drawing hundreds of thousands of tourists over the years.
But one of the things that sets Fleetwood apart is its art deco buildings – the most prominent being Marine Hall which sits on the town’s seafront. The Hall is one of the best entertainment venues in Wyre and retains the character of its 1930s art-deco heritage.
Marine Hall & Gardens hosts a year-round line-up of live music shows, comedy nights and family-friendly events. It has become a hub for the local community with a stunning ballroom and iconic glazed dome.
The Which? survey did, however, give high marks for shopping – best along the promenade – and ‘peace and quiet’.
Arcadis’ Fleetwood Waterfront Leisure Masterplan, which was submitted to the council in August 2024, reveals £16 million worth of transformation plans that start with the redevelopment of Marine Hall.
Blueprints show how the space could be transformed with a more ‘prominent glazed entrance and foyer’ from Marine Gardens, along with upgraded toilets with a new entrance, and vast improvements to the waterfront restaurant, including floor-to-ceiling glass windows.
Speaking exclusively to the Mirror, Councillor Peter Le Marinel, Planning Policy and Economic Development Portfolio Holder, revealed the council’s vision for Fleetwood to become a ‘dynamic and lively place to live, work and visit’ has been in the works for years.
He hailed the town’s ‘rich history’ and ‘striking coastline’, drawing attention to ‘remarkable’ Heritage sites such as the Fleetwood Market and the art-deco Marine Hall theatre, which are in need of a major refurb.
“We are committed to enhancing the town’s existing assets, attracting investment and funding to help Fleetwood achieve its full potential,” Peter added. “We have appointed Arcadis, who also served as consultants for the original Masterplan, to develop business cases for four projects outlined in the Masterplan.”]
Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel said: “From beautiful coastlines to peaceful walks and charming traditional bucket and spade resorts, the UK seaside offers something for everyone – whatever the weather.
“While you may have your own favourite destination, as well as the top spots in Devon and Wales, our survey shows there are still plenty of beautiful hidden gems across the UK to explore. Some seaside resorts offer better value for money than others, so it is worth looking at surrounding areas of popular spots if you are looking for a cheaper overnight stay.”
