Page:History of the Fylde of Lancashire (IA historyoffyldeof00portiala).pdf/452

 an invigorating bath in the sea. The fortnightly spring tides were the signals which foretold the advent of these huge pic-nic parties, for such it seems appropriate to style them, who flocked down to the shore, generally bringing their own provisions with them, and after disporting themselves amidst the waves, and procuring amusement in various ways during the day, returned quietly or hilariously home to their several destinations, in the evening or following morning, in the manner they had arrived. Some from the more remote places prolonged their sojourn for three days. Races for the better class of farmers' horses were held annually on Wit-Monday, over the sward which runs from the windmill to the site of an old lime kiln about one mile distant, in the direction of Saltcoats, the course being round that spot to the starting point. These races, which are described as having been very fair contests, were kept up for many years. The prizes competed for were saddles, bridles, whips, etc. The bowling greens of Lytham amounted to two, which were attached to the Clifton Arms and Commercial Hotels, and were well patronised.

The following description of the attractions of Lytham, published in 1821, furnishes a pretty correct idea of the recreations afforded by the watering-place about that date:—"Lytham is a very salubrious place; its walks are pleasant and diversified. You may walk for miles on the sand westward. You may trip to the Hey-houses and get bad ale. Common-side offers a journey, which, if you please, ends at Blackpool. The walks are many and various for those who love exercise; the lazy will soon tire here, but the active will never be at a loss. The sands are fine—the sea breeze pleasant—the air is impregnated with health. Sailing may be had at tide time; boats are occasionally going to Preston and over the water to Southport. There are baths, shower, cold, and warm for invalides. Old Hugh Holmes, the shaver, doctor, and shopkeeper, is an old man, thin and meagre, conceited to a tittle, and remarkably fond of chit-chat. The people here bathe not at all, whilst those from a distance think it a blessing. Holmes, the barber, said he had never bathed in his life, nor could I persuade him to do so. He said that he was sound in body, and if so, why dip in the briny sea at all."

In 1821 the population of Lytham amounted to 1,292 persons, consisting of 258 families; and in 1825 the parish contained 258