Things to do in Garstang
Historic market town on the banks of the River Wyre
Garstang is a historic market town, situated on the banks of the beautiful River Wyre. It is located 15-minutes drive from our Lancashire caravan park in between Lancaster and Preston. It’s famous as the world’s first Fairtrade Town.
With plenty of cafés, shops and scenic walks nearby, there’s much to offer visitors during a day out from Moss Wood Caravan Park. We highly recommend taking some time to explore this pretty town whilst holidaying in the North West.
Things to Do in Garstang
1. Stroll the Lancaster Canal
The Lancaster Canal near Garstang is renowned for its long lock-free stretch, perfect for relaxed towpath walks and family cycling. Don’t miss the Wyre Aqueduct, carrying the canal high above the River Wyre.
2. Browse the Weekly Market
Garstang market dates back to the 1300’s and continues to draw people to the town every week. The traditional market takes place on Thursdays and stretches along the length of the high street. There are a variety of goods available to purchase, including stalls selling household goods, clothes, plants and more.
Photo credit: Gee Leonard, Flickr
3. Peruse Independent Shops
If you plan on indulging in a spot of retail therapy during your holiday in Lancashire, Garstang is the place to go. Unlike larger towns and cities nearby, there are few national retailers, but a fantastic mix of independent shops to peruse.
In addition to the weekly market, there are a number of stalls in the Market Hall on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Here you can find fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as locally sourced meats and other artisan produce.
4. Walks from Garstang
If you like walking there are a number of scenic routes that can be easily reached from Garstang. We highly recommend picking up the Garstang Heritage Trail leaflet and following one of the marked routes around the town. There are 3 trails of varying lengths, each showing various buildings of historical importance. The leaflet includes original artwork and lists interesting facts.
Photo credit: Maljoe, Flickr
5. Millennium Green
Another of our favourite places to walk during a trip to Garstang is the Millennium Green. This outdoor space is just moments from the town centre and provides the perfect setting for both the local community and visitors to enjoy the outdoors. There’s a picnic area and interesting bird sculptures to take in. There’s also a 30-minute circular walk, from which you may be lucky enough to spot a range of birdlife, squirrels and may be even a bat!
Photo credit: A S Morton, Flickr
Events
Every year Garstang plays host to a number of fantastic events. Perhaps the most well-known is the Arts and Music Festival, which culminates on the August bank holiday. Over the course of the 10-day event there are plenty of performances from entertainers and local bands. The Arts Centre is a hive of activity with a variety of workshops and exhibitions taking place.
Other events include the annual Garstang Agricultural Show, Children’s Festival, Victorian Christmas Festival and Scarecrow Festival.
Places to Eat in Garstang
You certainly won’t go hungry during a trip to Garstang – there are lots of lovely places to eat and drink.
If you’re in the mood for traditional pub food, we suggest treating yourself to a meal at:
For lighter bites or delicious tea, coffee and cake head to:
FAQs
Q: What day is Garstang market?
A: Garstang market takes places every Thursday – usually between 9am and 4pm.
Q: Why is Garstang famous?
A: It’s the world’s first Fairtrade Town, declared in 2000.
Q: Can you walk the canal from Garstang?
A: Yes, you can walk the canal from Garstang. Garstand sits on the lock-free Lancaster canal, ideal for easy walking and cycling.
Q: When is the Garstang Walking Festival?
A: It runs in May every year – see Wyre council announcements for latest dates.
Visitor Information
- Location: Garstang, Lancashire (between Lancaster and Preston)
Market day: Thursday, typically 9am – 4pm (check seasonal changes) - Parking: signposted town car parks
- Dog friendly: riverside and canal paths welcome dogs on leads
How to Get to Garstang
- By car: take the M6 from Lancaster to Preston. Exit at J33 then follow signs to Garstang – the drive should take approximately 15 minutes
- By bus: regular bus services link Garstang with Lancaster and Preston
- By bike/foot: Join the Lancaster Canal towpath for a scenic, low-stress route into town
Plan your Visit
With its weekly market, canal-side scenery and easy access to Beacon Fell and the wider Forest of Bowland (AONB), Garstang is the perfect day out from Moss Wood Caravan Park.
Where to Stay
Moss Wood is a great place for exploring towns and villages across Lancashire, including Garstang. Book a stay on one of our touring or motorhome pitches or visit the park and browse one of our holiday homes for sale.
Enjoy a host of facilities, including a woodland walk, nature trail, children’s play area and small shop selling tasty local produce.