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Liverpool ‘one of the earliest seaside resorts’

In 2008, researchers from the University of Liverpool found diary references to ‘bathing wagons’ and other activities taking place in the growing town from as long ago as the 1750s. This is much earlier than other seaside resorts like Blackpool and Southport became popular destinations.

Allan Brodie, from English Heritage, made the discovery about early sea bathing in Liverpool.

He said: “I have found descriptions of ‘bathing wagons’ in diaries of Liverpool people which date back to the 1730s, as well as references to organised visits to Crosby for sea bathing.

“Liverpool was at the forefront of providing seawater baths around this time.”

Liverpool ‘first seaside resort’ – BBC News, 16 November 2008

Once Liverpool began to expand at a massive rate in the Victorian era, holiday-makers (those who could afford a holiday) made their way from the dirty city to the clean air of the seaside. It was at that time that the surrounding Lancashire towns became known for bathing and other seaside resort pursuits, and their popularity only increased with the spread of the railways and organised trips for the working classes.

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