88, Lancaster to Knott End

The 88 route is a multi-faceted journey which reflects the rich diversity of Lancashire landscapes and offers you coastal and rural bliss.

Your journey starts in the vibrant, historic city of Lancaster, so before you stroll to the centrally located bus station, take time to absorb its architectural beauty. Once aboard the bus, you will curve round the city, taking in hotspots such as the majestic statue of Queen Victoria standing proudly over the flower-filled Dalton Square and Lancaster cathedral before crossing the River Lune.

In only 20 minutes, as you traverse meadows and cornfields, you will be transported to the marine-side delight of Glasson Dock at Tithebarn Hill which is well worth a visit. The marina buzzes gently with boats and birdlife, and a stroll along the canal offers enchanting views across the estuary.

Back on the bus, you will pass swathes of soul-refreshing estuary expanse and endless green fields speckled with sheep. Look out for the grandiose Thurnham Hall looming amidst trees and the black and white haze of cows afield. You will reach Cockerham – deliciously rural and view after view of hay bales, horses and huge farmyard buildings bely the agricultural industry of the area along the route towards Garstang.

Relish the quaintness of this picturesque market town and as you leave, hold on tight while crossing the humpbacked bridge with a bounce and snake briefly in a loop. Your next journey phase beckons to Pilling via Lancaster Road. You will be astonished by the vast, flat green plains of fields which give this part of the journey a different feel of expanse.

As we near the final destination, there is a fork in the road favours Fleetwood on the left and Knotts End on the right. What an ‘end’ it is - offering even more boundless views than before, where you can gaze over across Morecambe Bay and reflect on the manifold beauty of the day.

Hold onto your hat – this is a whopper of a day ahead, kicking off at Lancaster: a wealth of architectural beauty, cobbled streets, culture and independent shops and all within walking distance. Arm yourself with a hearty breakfast at one of the numerous independent cafés, such as Diggles bakery and deli or the Vegan Whale Tail before having a meander round.

The marvellous Lancaster City Museum which towers bombastically over the Market Square is worth a look and visit, with very reasonably priced entry. Only a few minutes away, is the breathtaking Lancaster Castle worth stands stoically and magnificently over Lancaster, bejewelled with beautiful plants and flowers. Here too can find out about the sorry plight of the Pendle Witches who were put to trial and execution. If you fancy a quick shop, head to St Nicholas Arcades before you walk to Lancaster Bus Station.

The 88 bus will whisk you away from the vibrance of Lancaster and immerse you in relaxation at the gem that is Glasson Dock. Only 20 minutes away, do make a stop here. You will be greeted by the Lock Keeper’s Rest where you quench your thirst or hunger, all while you take in the beautiful marina views. Don’t miss Helene, the beautiful tall ship which towers the skyline. A minute on, passing the living and working lock, is a row of delightful shops. Be sure to go to the Lancaster Smokehouse which offer delicious smoked treats from seafood to cheeses which make lovely gifts for others or yourself!

Cockerham is the next main stop, a quiet village nestled within farmland and saltmarsh. You could hop off for a bracing walk toward Cockerham Sands, popular with birdwatchers for spotting waders and wildfowl. If you need a pit-stop, alight at the haven of The Patten Arms at Winmarleigh to take in the gorgeous rural vistas over an ice cream or a refreshing drink.

Next, you are in for a huge treat: the picturesque market town of Garstang which offers a joyous fusion of historic interest, natural beauty and independent charm. Indeed, Garstang stands out as the world’s first Fairtrade Town since 2000, reflecting its strong ethical and community ethos.

While it boasts cafés, restaurants, gorgeous pubs, specialist shops, and producers such as the famous Dewlay for local cheeses like Garstang Blue Fine & Country, take in some of the natural beauty first. Garstang is nestled on the banks of the River Wyre, against the backdrop of the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Millennium Green and canal-side paths along the Lancaster Canal and River Wyre offer serene walks, wildlife-spotting, and beautiful spots for a picnic, with views across the Bowland Fells.

Back on the bus, after the nearby Nateby, laden with pastoral scenery, you will forge onward to Pilling, a village known for its rich agricultural heritage and striking coastal views across Morecambe Bay toward the Lake District fells. Take a walk along Pilling Sands, a tidal saltmarsh on Morecambe Bay, great for birdwatching and look out for the Damside Windmill, a restored early 19th-century majestic tower mill though, now a private residence.

Fancy something a bit different? Pilling Pottery studio is a must see for pottery and art lovers alike, owned and run by none other than the Pilling family, who have produced pottery for over four generations.

Finally – the last stop is the enchanting Knotts End which offers the perfect end to a perfect day – a coastal village sitting opposite to Fleetwood, to which it is linked by a quaint ferry. Take a well-deserved rest at the lovely Ralph’s Café where you can gaze at beautiful paintings by local artist, Myrna Higgins or sit down and enjoy a freshly baked delicacy at Cottage Loaf bakery. Once fortified, take a stroll down the Esplanade where you will be reinvigorated by boundless panoramic vistas across the Wyre estuary. Look out for the silhouettes of mighty Lake District mountains in the far distance, not least the Old Man of Coniston Old Man and Helvellyn – the third highest point of both the Lake District and England!

If you fancy a ‘final fling’, take the short 5-minute ferry ride to Fleetwood on the historic Wyre Estuary Ferry (the Wyre Rose). Whatever you do, make sure to take in the sight of the delightful tribute to painter L.S. Lowry, famous for his ‘matchstick men and women’ and industrial scenes from the North West, including his home town of Salford. The sculpture of Lowry and his pet dog pays homage to where he would sit, gaze and sketch and indeed at least three of his works of art depict views at Knott End.

Round off your day at the lovely Bourne Arms pub which offers hearty fare and regular live music, as you absorb the rich variety of sights of architectural, coastal, farmland and rural landscapes you have experienced in just one, soul-expanding day!