Happiness in Heysham – ASHLIE McANALLY finds the perfect spot for a seaside getaway that’s guaranteed to bring visitors some sunshine

Situated in a quiet street in the picturesque Lancashire village, the hotel may seem a little unassuming.

However, The Royal At Heysham is the perfect reason to visit this seaside village, where guests can enjoy the comfortable rooms, beautiful seaside location and delicious food.

The inn began life as a granary in the 16th century and was converted into a pub a century later.

The Royal At Heysham has been restored as part of a multi-million pound investment

Guests enjoy comfortable rooms, many of which retain original features

Today it has been restored thanks to a multi-million pound investment by Daniel Thwaites and there are now eleven rooms available, many of which still retain their unique and original features.

As soon as you enter, you will be immediately welcomed by the friendly staff.

The rooms are all en suite and feature White Company toiletries, which create a luxurious feel, as well as homely touches such as biscuits and cold milk bottles for making tea and coffee.

The extensive coastline between Heysham and Morecambe is just a few hundred metres from the front door.

The route is flat and along the way you will come across playgrounds and shops for the younger family members who may need a break.

And no visit to this area is complete without a visit to the statue of Eric Morecambe on the seafront of the famous town.

The painting was unveiled by the Queen in 1999 and shows the comedian in one of his characteristic poses, with a pair of binoculars around his neck. It is still a crowd-puller!

Day trippers can also take the ferry from Heysham to the Isle of Man to explore.

And at the end of a long day, guests can enjoy award-winning food at The Royal at Heysham, where menus are created using locally sourced ingredients.

Hearty meals include beer-battered fish, thick fries with pea puree and homemade tartare sauce. Vegetarian options include roasted pumpkin, pepper gnocchi and sage cream sauce.

No visit to the area would be complete without a visit to the statue of Eric Morecambe

And with chocolate brownie served with Chantilly cream and tiramisu, there is plenty of choice for dessert.

In the mornings, guests can enjoy a continental selection of cereals, yoghurts and fruit and plan their day as they peruse the menu of cooked options, including a full breakfast, with vegetarian options, eggs benedict, oak-smoked salmon and scrambled eggs.

For a weekend away in another world, to enjoy the sea views or the local culture, Heysham has something for everyone. The Royal is the ideal base for a trip.