The Fylde facts for kids

The Fylde is a flat, coastal area in the western part of Lancashire, England. It's like a big, nearly square-shaped piece of land that sticks out into the sea, which is why it's called a peninsula. It measures about 13 miles (20 kilometers) across.

To the north, The Fylde is bordered by Morecambe Bay, a large bay on the coast. To the south, you'll find the Ribble estuary, which is where the River Ribble meets the sea. The Irish Sea is to the west, and to the east, there are the Bowland hills. The M6 motorway, a major road, runs close to its eastern edge.

What is The Fylde?

The Fylde is mostly a flat area of land right next to the sea. It's known as a "coastal plain" because it's low-lying and doesn't have many hills. This type of land is often formed by rivers bringing soil and sand down to the coast over many years.

How The Fylde Was Formed

Millions of years ago, the area that is now The Fylde was shaped by natural forces. During the last Ice Age, huge glaciers moved across the land. As these glaciers melted, they left behind layers of sand, clay, and gravel. This created the flat landscape we see today. Over time, the sea also played a role, with tides and waves shaping the coastline.

Life in The Fylde

The flat land and coastal location of The Fylde make it a good place for different activities.

• Farming: The soil is fertile, so farming is common here. Farmers grow crops like potatoes and vegetables.
• Tourism: Because it's on the coast, The Fylde is a popular place for holidays. Towns like Blackpool attract many visitors with their beaches and attractions.
• Wildlife: The coastal areas, especially the estuaries, are important for birds. Many different types of birds come here to feed and rest, especially during their long migrations.

Towns and Villages

The Fylde is home to several towns and villages, each with its own character.

• Blackpool: This is the largest and most famous town in The Fylde. It's known for its tower, piers, and amusement parks. It's a very popular seaside resort.
• Lytham St Annes: South of Blackpool, this town is quieter and more traditional. It has lovely gardens and a famous golf course.
• Fleetwood: Located at the northern tip of The Fylde, Fleetwood is a port town. It has a long history of fishing and still has a busy market.
• Poulton-le-Fylde: This is an older market town located more inland. It has a historic town center and a more local feel.

These towns are connected by roads and public transport, making it easy to travel around the area.

Images for kids

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  Ribble estuary separating the West Lancashire Coastal Plain (left) from the Fylde (right)