STEP BACK IN TIME T tr avel report MORECAMBE

HERE is something so familiar about the Midland Hotel in Morecambe.

Memories of old black and white movies on a rainy Saturday afternoon are brought to mind. It’s a great big warm hug of a place - a step back in time.

Used as a setting for Agatha Christie’s Poirot, it is impossible not to be whisked away to another era.

The imposing art deco building stands out as a jewel of Morecambe Bay - beautifully restored and oozing history from its classic club chairs that circle the reception, to the grand staircase that just demands a Hollywood-style entrance.

It feels like more than a hotel rather a living, breathing tribute to a bygone time.

Hours can be whiled away sitting on the terrace bar, sipping cocktails, overlooking the beautiful views of the bay, all to the soundtrack of a 1930s playlist on loop.

Originally opened in 1933, it was a favourite haunt of Coco Chanel, Sir Laurence Olivier and Noel Coward.

Since being reopened in 2008 after closing 10 years earlier - that old fashioned glamour has been recaptured in loving detail, with original features pointing to its former glories.

Today it can be enjoyed all over again by a new generation, looking for a weekend away, with local attractions like Williamson Park, Bowland Wild Boar Park and Blackpool Pleasure Beach all in close proximity.

But the Midland is an attraction all in itself - and the temptation is just to absorb in the experience, venturing out for walks along the promenade in between drinks and meals back at the hotel.

The sun terrace restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as afternoon tea - sourcing local produce and offering a panoramic view of the bay.

The duck egg benedict is a delicious twist on the classic dish, with a full English or Port of Lancaster grilled Manx kipper among the choices on an extensive breakfast menu.

For dinner the roast rump of lamb with sweetbreads and pickled beetroot is luxurious - the Himalayan Salt aged fillet steak another example of an impressive menu.

The bedrooms continue the art deco theme, with a modern touch, yet also antiquated.

Designed by Manchester firm Urban Splash, the colour palette was taken from an old cine film that featured scenes from Morecambe.

It is all in-keeping with a sense of deja vu that runs throughout the Midland - and even if just for one night, gives you an enchanting taste of yesteryear.