Quirky harbour village with stunning marina is hidden UK gem | UK | Travel

A picturesque harbourside village in Lancashire is a sight to behold and certainly worth a visit for those eager to discover the UK’s distinctive landscapes.

Nestled south of Lancaster, this charming village is perched at the mouth of the River Lune, offering stunning views, delightful harbourside strolls, and a bustling marina that provides endless fascination.

This hidden treasure is waiting to be discovered, with its sparkling waters and eccentric architecture sure to ignite your desire to explore further.

Glasson Dock, often simply referred to as Glasson, is a historic harbour village in Lancashire linked to Lancaster by the beautiful Lune Estuary Cycleway. Its vibrant working marina is teeming with life, forming the heart of this idyllic hamlet.

The marina is connected to the Lancaster Canal through an elaborate lock system known as the Glasson Locks. These are celebrated as one of the village’s ‘must-see’ attractions and stand as a testament to modern engineering prowess, reports Lancs Live.

The ideal harbourside retreat, Glasson Dock village is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. As part of Morecambe Bay’s protected habitat, the Lune Estuary offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and observing unique wildlife.

Brimming with egrets and herons at low tide, as well as curlews and wading birds, the Lune Estuary is a joy to behold, particularly during the spring and autumn migration seasons.

If you’re eager to uncover the treasures of Lancashire’s captivating coastline, Glasson Dock is a must-visit. Established in the 18th century, this harbour has been operational since 1787.

Steeped in maritime history, this quaint village played a pivotal role as Lancaster’s port, importing spices, cotton, and sugar from Africa and the Indies.

Today, Glasson Dock continues to thrive, handling an impressive 150,000 tonnes of cargo annually, making it a bustling harbour. The charming marina views alone make this village worth a visit.

For those who enjoy a good walk, Glasson Dock offers numerous picturesque trails with stunning countryside vistas. Overton village, located across the river, directly faces Glasson Dock.

Cyclists will appreciate the popular Glasson Dock Bay Cycleway, widely regarded as one of the region’s highlights. The Lancashire Coastal Way is also easily accessible from the village, positioning Glasson Dock as an ideal starting point for your Lancashire explorations.

Additional attractions include the Grade II Listed Christ Church, The Watch House, and The Glasson Dock Lighthouse. Fans of ITV’s crime drama, The Bay, might recognise this charming hamlet, as it served as a filming location for the series.

The village boasts a selection of unique independent shops, delightful local cafes, and cosy, highly-rated pubs (the Dalton Arms deserves a special mention). Visitors can drop in for a refreshing drink and a tasty meal.

One chuffed patron took to Tripadvisor to sing praises of Dalton Arms, stating: “Bank holiday visit to this little gem. Lovely tradition pub at Glasson Dock. Great home cooked food and very friendly staff. Wife opted for cheese pie and chips, I had full English (super size) . All cooked to order and of the best quality. Very generous portions and reasonably priced. I can’t recommend this place highly enough. Looking forward to our next visit to try some of the other items on the menu. Desserts are great too. Highly recommend.”