Matchstick Man And His Dog

Standing nine metres tall on the Fleetwood seafront, this bronze sculpture of a stick figure with his faithful hound has become something of a local landmark. Created by artist Sean Henry, the piece shows a simplified human form - all angular lines and elongated limbs - alongside a more detailed dog, creating an intriguing contrast that draws you in for a closer look.

Families staying at nearby Haven Cala Gran or Broadwater Holiday Park will find it an easy addition to a coastal walk. The sculpture sits right on the promenade, so you can combine it with fish and chips or a proper seaside stroll. Kids seem particularly taken with the dog - it's rendered in much more detail than its owner, which always sparks questions about why.

There's no admission fee, obviously, and you can view it any time of day. The whole experience takes about ten minutes unless you're really into contemporary art, though it photographs well against the Irish Sea backdrop. Art lovers will appreciate Henry's technique, but honestly, most visitors just enjoy the oddity of stumbling across something so striking in what's otherwise a fairly traditional Lancashire seaside town.

It's worth the short detour if you're already in Fleetwood, but I wouldn't make a special journey just for this one piece.