The picturesque village is home to miles of sandy beaches and stunning coastal walks, as well as a number of historical sites that have been featured in artwork
This quaint seaside village is located less than two hours from a major city – and you might recognise it from this very famous album cover.
Heysham, a seaside village less than two hours’ drive from Liverpool, is a hidden gem that music fans will find familiar. Nestled just a stone’s throw away from Lancaster, this small but mighty village boasts stunning sandy beaches and a rich history.
Despite its size, Heysham offers sprawling grasslands, lush woodlands, and dramatic coastlines that have graced artwork and even a famous album cover. One of the most visited spots in Heysham is St Peter’s Church, a historical marvel dating back to the Saxon period. Believed to be one of Lancashire’s oldest churches, it’s a must-see for history buffs.
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Open throughout the week, the church provides free guided tours from Monday to Thursday between 11am and 3pm. It also houses significant artefacts, including the Viking gravestone known as the ‘Heysham Hogback’.
Just a short stroll from St Peter’s Church, you’ll find Heysham’s rock-cut tombs. These water-filled stone-hewn graves were famously featured on the artwork of Black Sabbath’s Best of Black Sabbath album in 2000, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Thought to have been created around the eleventh century, these graves served as the final resting place for high-status individuals.
These graves are located adjacent to the ruins of St. Patrick’s Chapel, which overlooks the breathtaking coastline of Morecambe Bay.
The chapel holds a Grade I listing in the National Heritage List for England, signifying its importance and the extra protection it receives due to its age and condition. Despite this, the site, managed by the National Trust, welcomes visitors.
According to local folklore, Ireland’s patron saint, St Patrick, was shipwrecked and established a chapel here in the fifth century. The striking sandstone building is believed to have been constructed at least two centuries after the original.
Apart from its captivating history, the village boasts stunning coastal views that are ideal for a seaside stroll.
The National Trust suggests visiting its coastline to witness the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets as the sky transitions from blue to vibrant oranges and pinks.
British landscape artist JMW Turner was reportedly inspired by the village’s remarkable scenery when he painted ‘Heysham and Cumberland Mountains’ in 1818.
The coastal village provides all the expected amenities, including independent cafes and restaurants.
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