Mary's Shell Travel Guide

Mary's Shell is a monumental piece of public art located at the northern end of Cleveleys Beach promenade. Created as part of the Mythic Coast art trail, it brings to life the story of the Sea Swallow, a local myth captured in a children's book by Gareth Thompson and illustrated by Hannah McGee. The sculpture represents the golden shell wielded by Mary, the story's young heroine, who saves the town from a devastating sea threat. This narrative connection enriches the sculpture’s cultural significance, linking art, folklore, and community identity.

Designed by artist Stephen Broadbent and fabricated by Chris Bramall of CB Arts, Mary's Shell is crafted from stainless steel rolled sections. Measuring 8 meters in length and 4 meters in height, it weighs approximately 16.5 tonnes. The sculpture is securely anchored on a solid concrete foundation cast directly into the beach in July 2013, ensuring stability amid shifting sands and tides. To protect the base from erosion caused by rough weather, an arc of rocks was strategically placed nearby, effectively stabilizing the beach levels and preserving the artwork’s integrity.

Mary's Shell offers a unique interactive experience as it is visible and accessible only at low tide. Visitors can climb inside the large spiral shell, gaining a captivating perspective looking out toward the sea. The sculpture’s position on the beach means it is periodically engulfed by the tide, creating a dynamic interplay between art and nature. Photographers are drawn to the site, especially at sunset, when the shell frames stunning coastal views. The sounds of the sea inside the shell add an immersive sensory dimension, enhancing visitors’ connection to the local environment and story.

Mary's Shell is one highlight among several public artworks along Cleveleys promenade that together tell the Mythic Coast story. Other installations include the Ogre, the Ogre’s Paddle, the Sea Swallow sculpture, and the Fylde Shipwreck Memorial. These works collectively celebrate local maritime heritage and folklore, creating a rich cultural landscape that invites exploration and reflection. The trail links art with history, community narratives, and the natural coastal setting, making it a meaningful destination for visitors.

Situated on a dynamic beach environment, the sculpture’s concrete base and protective rock formations are vital to its preservation. The beach nourishment works carried out alongside the installation involved importing shingle to protect the sea wall and stabilize the shoreline. This careful balance of art and environmental management ensures that Mary's Shell remains a lasting feature of Cleveleys Beach, resilient to natural coastal processes while enhancing the seafront’s aesthetic and cultural appeal.

Mary's Shell is a popular subject for photographers and artists, who are captivated by its scale, form, and interaction with light and tide. The sculpture’s reflective stainless steel surface and dramatic curves create striking images, especially during changing weather and light conditions. Its location offers panoramic views of the Fylde Coast, making it a favored spot for capturing sunsets and seascapes. The artwork’s presence enriches the visual and cultural fabric of Cleveleys, inspiring creativity and appreciation for coastal heritage.