The Victorian town of Fleetwood, in Wyre, is nestled at the meeting point of the majestic River Wyre and the Irish Sea and with its long stretch of sandy beach, it’s a popular seaside destination for families. Fleetwood is believed to be the first planned town of the Victorian Era and Queen Victoria herself passed through it on her way from London to Scotland in 1847. Fleetwood’s Victorian buildings and monuments are still some of its most appealing attractions. The Mount is a leafy, seven-acre park built on a large sand dune. For fantastic sea views stroll up to the stately Pavilion, built in 1902, at the summit. If you continue your walk across The Esplanade you’ll come to the Marine Hall, a 1930s architectural gem, which is surrounded by the attractive, flower-filled Marine Gardens where there’s also a bowling green, pitch and putt and children’s playground. Fleetwood is also a well-known shopping destination with a fantastic range of historic and modern shopping venues. Fleetwood Market is housed in an attractive Victorian building and is one of the largest covered markets in the North West. Its 250 stalls sell all manner of goods. Alternatively, visit Freeport Fleetwood, a modern, waterfront outlet shopping village which has 45 bargain clearance shops including Next, M&S, and Reebok.