Fosbrooke House

(Today I travelled, by train, to Fosbrooke House, Lytham, Lancashire for a 24 hour visit to our nearest neighbour in the Church of England Pension Board clergy retirement home network. To my surprise the location was not Lytham, nor St Anne's, but the community between - Ansdell and Fairhaven. Here is a little about each from information provided by Lytham St Anne's Civic Society).

Lytham

Lytham is a traditional coastal village which is truly one of the gems of the North West. With its continental markets, flourishing gardens and stylish restaurants, Lytham really has something on offer for everyone. Whatever the season, you’re guaranteed to create lasting memories to treasure in the years to come.

Lytham’s landmark windmill, displayed on the green, is just a glimpse of the heritage, which lies within Lytham. This signature now holds a wonderfully illustrated exhibition of the town’s history as well as being a major tourist information point. Built between 1752-64, one of the finest Georgian houses in the North West of England is Lytham Hall, which holds a Grade One listed status. Its parkland is also registered with English Heritage.

The playhouse, Lowther Pavilion regularly hosts shows, plays, recitals and musicals along with various exhibitions and concerts throughout the year. Browse round the antique and craft fairs held frequently at the Pavilion, where unique and interesting goods can be purchased, perfect for presents or momentums of your get away.

Lytham is brimming with traditions. The pebble designs, a tradition that has survived more than 170 years can be spotted in and around the town along with the elaborate mosaic displayed in the town’s piazza. Colourful parades, entertainment in Lowther Gardens, the crowning of theRose Queen on Club Day is one annual highlight not to be missed.

If nature is of interest, the Ribble Estuary, running right by Lytham has been claimed a site of special scientific interest. Up to a quarter of a million birds may be present at once and millions pass through in a year. The area is important globally for its winter season flocks and as a stopping place for birds during migration.

Art has a large role within Lytham. When visiting Lytham Heritage Centre you will experience exhibitions of local amateur works including very unique interpretations of the local surroundings. Visit the Fylde Gallery - A collection of art donated by local residents over the past 80 years now has a permanent home in Fylde with the creation of this purpose built gallery, located within theBooths Supermarket at Haven Road. ‘The Fylde Gallery' on the first floor is providing an ideal opportunity to display many of Fylde Borough Council’s 19th century works of art. The basis of the display will be more than 20 works by Richard Ansdell RA, famous for his rural paintings, a number of which depict local scenes

The town centre’s identity continues to grow and its reputation for its wide range of quaint shops and chic boutiques remains high. The piazza is the perfect setting to relax, listen to a band concert or keep the kids amused with the entertainment often provided.

St Annes-on-Sea

Close your eyes and picture a perfect beach with glimmering sea, golden sands; take a deep breath and imagine the freshness of salty sea air and listen to the laughter of your family and friends. St Annes-on-Sea's town centre has been completely regenerated over recent years to offer a charming experience, blending heritage with 21st Century living.

Open your eyes and it’s all still there in charming St Annes-on-Sea – home of the quintessentially English seaside holiday where you can enjoy an ice cream or take the kids for a paddle or a or a donkey ride!

Visitors to St Annes are fortunate to enjoy the miles of unspoilt sandy beach, the beautifully restored Victorian Pierand the elegant parks and gardens. The bathing beach was recently awarded a nationalQuality Coast Award by ENCAMS in recognition of it being exceptionally clean and safe.

A short stroll inland, and the town is a haven of tranquillity and calm - mixing the fabulous, old-fashioned holiday experience with top-class modern shopping facilities, restaurants and a variety of places to stay. From hotels and B&Bs, toself-catering or camping– you are sure find something to suit your taste and budget.

With quality dining onWood Street and national chains alongside one-off boutique stores, especially on the Crescent, there’s sure to be something to enjoy in St Annes-on-Sea.

Immerse your senses in relaxation and fun; take the opportunity to recharge your batteries and enjoy this stunning coastal gem.

For images of St Annes on Sea past and present then visit www.st-annes-on-sea.com.

Fairhaven Lake Fairhaven Lake is a superb setting on the Ribble Estuary with boating, tennis, putting and bowling. An abundance of activities for all the family or just for a quiet stroll around the lake. Treat yourself to a snack or meal at the Lakeside Cafe.

A popular location with residents and tourists. http://www.ribblecoastandwetlands.com/

Richard Ansdell R.A (1815 -1885)

Richard Ansdell R.A. (1815 - 1885)

Richard Ansdell's connection with Lytham went back at least to 1849, when he was commissioned by the Squire, Thomas Clifton. Ansdell was born in Liverpool but moved to London in 1847. He missed and loved Lytham so much that he called his London house "Lytham House".

In 1860 Ansdell leased a plot from the Clifton Estate and built a house of his own "Starr Hills", in an area so empty that it was known simply as "Ansdells". He sold the house in 1873, but the district still bears his name.