Just when you thought summer was all but over, it looks like the weather has different plans.
Temperatures are expected to climb towards 30C across Lancashire this week, making this latest heatwave the fifth in the UK during 2026.
So while the sun is shining, you might be planning to grab a picnic blanket and bucket and spade before heading to one of the beautiful beaches less than an hour from Preston, by train or car.
With Blackpool just a short journey along the M55 and the sandy shores of Southport not far away, we're lucky to have such a great selection of beach escapes on our doorstep.
If you are planning to take your pooch with you, don’t forget that some beaches do have restrictions in place.
As we look ahead to the week, we've put together a guide to some of the most beautiful beaches near Preston.
5. Formby Beach
Formby Beach is known for its vast sandy shores, stunning protected dunes, woodlands (home to red squirrels) and excellent coastal views. It is two and a half hours away from Derbyshire. Formby Beach, National Trust Formby Lifeboat Road Formby Merseyside L37 2EB. Photo: Yan
6. Morecambe Bay
Morecambe’s bathing beaches have been recognised as some of the best in the country. | mikus - stock.adobe.com
7. Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay stretches from the wall of Heysham Harbour up the coast to the Heritage Centre at Lower Heysham. At high tide the beach is fairly small, flanked by rocks and backed by grassy hills. At low tide however, a vast expanse of sand and mudflats are exposed. The beach has views across Morecambe Bay and towards the Lakeland fells. Photo: Gayle Rouncivell
8. Southport Beach
The golden sands of Southport Beach are part of the 22-mile Sefton coastline leading from the Mersey into the Ribble Estuary. | Jeff Buck Photo: Jeff Buck