Heysham

Dating back to the stone age and the scene of a Viking invasion – take a trip and delve into the history of this fascinating village.
Ancient graves cut from rock. Chapel ruins perched on a cliff top. These are just some of the sights you can see in the attractive village of Heysham, a popular picturesque village just south of Morecambe.
The village has a fascinating history to explore – one which includes a Viking invasion around 800AD as well as much more. So why not take a trip there and find out what’s on offer?
You could visit the small church of St Peter’s which has a stunning location on the cliffside overlooking Morecambe Bay. Although most of the building dates back to the 14th or 15th centuries, the remains of an old Saxon church can still be seen there. Go inside and you’ll find a Norse hogback stone from 1000AD, a fascinating relic believed to be a grave cover.

During restoration work in 1864 a chalice was also discovered in a stone coffin outside the church. This chalice is now on display inside and well worth a look.
Go outside and explore the nearby ruins of St Patrick’s Chapel on the headland just beyond the church. Dating from the 8th or 9th century the ruins are great to have a wander around and with stunning panoramic views of Morecambe Bay. The headland itself is managed by The National Trust but is free to access and an ideal spot for walks and picnics (although can get a little windy from time to time)!!

As well as enjoying the fantastic views, explore the area and you’ll come across an intriguing sight on the ground – a group of Viking rock hewn graves. These six graves are a mystery but are believed to be early examples of Christian burial. And in an area just near there, more than 1200 artefacts were uncovered during an excavation in 1993 – a real find!

To explore Heysham’s history even further, visit the Heysham Heritage Centre with its fantastic displays and exhibitions. The centre can be found in a converted 17th century listed barn in the middle of the village (htnw.co.uk/heysham.html / 01524 853465).
As well as its fascinating past, the village has twice been a Britain in Bloom winner and is worth just having a wander around its winding streets reminiscent of the South of France.
You can take a stroll past some of its attractive, old cottages, many of which date back to the 17th century. Or if the weather’s nice take a picnic and head down to Half Moon Bay with its little sandy beach.

If you’re in a cultural mood you can find out about the famous artist J. M. W. Turner’s visit to Heysham in 1816, by taking part in Peter Wade’s guided walk ‘In search of Turner’s view’ on July 17.
If you fancy a bite to eat while you’re there, visit The Royal Hotel – a wonderful pub with crackling log fires, great food, fine wines and cask-conditioned beers.

For more information about the village of Heysham please visit http://www.heyshamonline.co.uk .