Fairhaven Lake & Gardens - Image 1
1 / 10

Fairhaven Lake and Gardens

4.8
·31 reviews·Lytham St Annes, United Kingdom

A beautiful lakeside retreat with stunning gardens, boat hire, and a playground, perfect for family fun and peaceful strolls.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Fairhaven Lake & Gardens - Image 1

Fairhaven Lake and Gardens

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautiful lakeside retreat with stunning gardens, boat hire, and a playground, perfect for family fun and peaceful strolls.

4.8
(31 reviews)

"A lovely peaceful walk around the lake with a cafe, pub and stalls on hand as well as the facility to hire a boat."

Vertical photo
TIP

Boat Hire Fun

Rent a boat to explore the island! A popular activity for couples and families. :rowboat:

Picnic Perfect

Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake. Plenty of space and beautiful views. :sandwich:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fairhaven Lake

Fairhaven Lake

The central feature of the gardens

Hire a boat and explore the island, or simply enjoy the scenic views and abundant birdlife.

Japanese Garden

Japanese Garden

Within the gardens

A tranquil oasis offering a peaceful escape with beautiful landscaping and serene water features.

Adventure Land Playground

Adventure Land Playground

Near the lake

A fantastic park for children with various play structures, perfect for burning off energy.

Spitfire Memorial

Spitfire Memorial

Near the lake

A poignant tribute to bravery, offering a moment of reflection on aviation history.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

Fairhaven Lake and Gardens offers a peaceful escape, but can get busy. Consider visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours to enjoy the serene atmosphere and avoid crowds, especially if you're looking for a relaxing walk or a picnic.

Family Fun & Activities

This spot is a hit with families! With a dedicated park, boat hire on the lake, and plenty of space for picnics, it's ideal for a fun-filled day. Pack accordingly for outdoor activities and keep an eye on little ones near the water.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer weekends
Why
Lively with events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Lytham to blackpool

Boat Hire Fun

Rent a boat to explore the island! A popular activity for couples and families. :rowboat:

Picnic Perfect

Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake. Plenty of space and beautiful views. :sandwich:

reddit.com

Free stop over Lytham St Anne's UK 🇬🇧

Kid-Friendly Park

Adventure Land playground is a hit with little ones. Great for a family day out. :child:

Cafe & Pub Nearby

Convenient cafes and a pub are available for refreshments. :coffee:

Tips

from all over the internet

Boat Hire Fun

Rent a boat to explore the island! A popular activity for couples and families. :rowboat:

Picnic Perfect

Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake. Plenty of space and beautiful views. :sandwich:

Kid-Friendly Park

Adventure Land playground is a hit with little ones. Great for a family day out. :child:

Cafe & Pub Nearby

Convenient cafes and a pub are available for refreshments. :coffee:

Dog Walking Paradise

Leashed dogs are welcome, making it ideal for a walk with your furry friend. :dog:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(31 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Fairhaven Lake and Gardens for its beauty, variety of activities, and family-friendly atmosphere. It's lauded as a lovely spot for peaceful walks, boat hire, and enjoying the well-maintained gardens, particularly the Japanese Garden. Some minor points of feedback relate to the busyness during peak times.

"Really lovely place to have a walk with so many things to do. You can hire a boat to go to the island in the middle, there is a park for the little ones an outdoor cinema and a bunch more. Would highly recommend"

MarkAnt.39

"A lovely peaceful walk around the lake with a cafe, pub and stalls on hand as well as the facility to hire a boat on the lake. Perfect for kids with the large park & ice cream shack too, would highly recommended for a relaxing afternoon with a great view."

Alex Thompson

"Such a beautiful lake

Nice scenic view

Especially loved the Japanese garden

Easy to get to and a cute little cafe further row."

Sonya Alam

What People Like

Beautiful lake and gardens
Family-friendly activities
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be busy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fairhaven Lake and Gardens is easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. For public transport, buses frequently run from nearby towns like Lytham St Annes to Blackpool, with stops close to the gardens. The 11 group bus is a reliable option for travel between St Annes and Blackpool. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at Fairhaven Lake and Gardens, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from St Annes to Fairhaven Lake, especially if you enjoy scenic routes. The distance is manageable for most. Reddit

Absolutely! Numerous bus routes connect Fairhaven Lake to surrounding areas, including Blackpool and Lytham St Annes, making it a convenient destination via public transport. Reddit

You can take a bus, such as the 11 group, from Lytham St Annes directly towards Blackpool, which will get you close to Fairhaven Lake. Alternatively, a taxi or a longer walk are also options. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Fairhaven Lake and Gardens is generally free to enter, allowing visitors to enjoy the grounds, lake, and many of the attractions without an admission fee. Reddit

Yes, boat hire on Fairhaven Lake typically requires a separate fee. You can usually rent them on the day from the designated hire point. Reddit

The Adventure Land playground is free to use for all visitors, making it a great budget-friendly option for families. Reddit

The gardens and lake are generally open from dawn till dusk, offering ample time to explore. Specific facilities like the cafe may have separate operating hours. Reddit

While there are many spots for picnics, advance booking isn't usually required. You can find a suitable spot upon arrival, especially on weekdays. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Activities include boat hire on the lake, exploring the Japanese Garden, enjoying the Adventure Land playground, visiting the Spitfire memorial, and walking the scenic paths. Reddit+1

Yes, Fairhaven Lake is a haven for various bird species, including ducks and swans, making it a delightful spot for birdwatchers. Reddit

Definitely! The Adventure Land playground is a major attraction for kids, and the shallow areas of the lake are great for supervised fun. Reddit

Leashed dogs are welcome at Fairhaven Lake and Gardens, making it a great place for a walk with your pet. Reddit

Fairhaven Lake has historical importance, having remained open even during wartime. The Spitfire memorial also adds a significant historical element. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a cafe located conveniently near the lake, and a pub is also on hand for dining options. An ice cream shack is perfect for a treat. Reddit

Absolutely! Fairhaven Lake is a popular spot for picnics, with plenty of benches and open spaces to enjoy your own food. Reddit

The cafe typically offers light meals, snacks, and refreshments, perfect for a casual bite during your visit. Reddit

Yes, there's an ice cream shack, which is a great spot to grab a refreshing treat, especially on a warm day. Reddit

While specific menus can vary, cafes often have a selection of vegetarian options. It's best to check with the cafe directly for current offerings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Japanese Garden offers beautiful, serene shots. The lake itself provides scenic views, especially with boats or swans. The Spitfire memorial is also a striking subject. Reddit

The lake offers lovely scenic views, and sunset can cast a beautiful golden light over the water, making it a good spot for photography during those times. Reddit

Yes, the abundant ducks and swans are popular subjects for wildlife photography. Remember to maintain a respectful distance. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and gardens to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's advisable to check local regulations. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most flattering and tranquil conditions for photographing the Japanese Garden. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Fairhaven Lake and Gardens is a fantastic destination for families. The Adventure Land playground is a major draw, offering plenty of fun for children of all ages. Boat hire on the lake provides an exciting activity, and the open spaces are perfect for picnics and letting kids run around. Reddit

Consider bringing snacks and drinks, though there are convenient cafes and an ice cream shack on site. The presence of ducks and swans also adds to the wonder for young visitors. It’s a place where kids can play, explore, and enjoy the outdoors in a safe and engaging environment. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers

For those seeking a peaceful retreat, Fairhaven Lake and Gardens offers ample opportunities for quiet contemplation. The Japanese Garden is a particular highlight, providing a serene escape with its tranquil design. Reddit

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, find a quiet bench to read a book, or simply observe the abundant birdlife. The gardens are spacious enough that even when busy, you can often find a secluded spot to relax and recharge. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Fairhaven Lake and Gardens is a dog-friendly destination, making it ideal for a walk with your canine companion. Dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone. Reddit

There are plenty of scenic paths around the lake and through the gardens for you and your dog to explore. It's a great spot to get some fresh air and exercise together in a beautiful setting. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Fairhaven Lake by Boat

One of the most popular activities at Fairhaven Lake is hiring a boat to explore its waters. Visitors can rent various types of boats, including rowboats, and navigate towards the island situated in the middle of the lake. This offers a unique perspective of the gardens and a fun experience for families and couples alike. It's a fantastic way to spend a relaxing afternoon, enjoying the gentle movement of the water and the surrounding scenery. Reddit

Remember to check the availability and operating hours for boat hire, especially during peak seasons. Life jackets are usually provided for safety. The experience is often described as a highlight by visitors, adding an element of adventure to a peaceful day out. Reddit

The Serenity of the Japanese Garden

Fairhaven Gardens boasts a beautifully maintained Japanese Garden, which is a must-visit for those seeking tranquility and aesthetic beauty. This area is designed to evoke peace and contemplation, featuring carefully arranged plants, water features, and traditional Japanese landscaping elements. It's a perfect spot for quiet reflection and offers a stark, beautiful contrast to the more open areas of the park. Reddit

Visitors often praise the Japanese Garden for its peaceful atmosphere and meticulous upkeep. It's an ideal location for photography, with its intricate details and harmonious design. Taking a moment to simply sit and absorb the calm ambiance is highly recommended. Reddit

A Tribute to Bravery: The Spitfire Memorial

A significant and moving feature of Fairhaven Lake is the Spitfire memorial. This tribute stands as a solemn reminder of the bravery of young pilots during wartime. Seeing the iconic aircraft up close offers a tangible connection to history and a moment for reflection on the sacrifices made. Reddit

Even for those not particularly interested in military history, the Spitfire memorial is described as a powerful and aesthetically pleasing monument. Its presence adds a layer of historical depth to the recreational space, encouraging visitors to pause and consider the past. Reddit

You may also like