Today (Tuesday 21st June) is longest day of the year, the Summer Solstice. Also known as midsummer or the estival solstice, it is the day with the longest period of sunlight. The sun will rise in London at 4.43 am, and set at 9.21 pm, delivering 16 hours, 38 minutes and 22 seconds of daylight. The solstice officially marks the beginning of the astronomical summer, which ends on 22nd September which is the autumn equinox.
Over the centuries, the Summer Solstice has inspired many festivals and midsummer celebrations involving bonfires, picnics, singing, watching the sun rise and Maypole dancing
On this longest day, enjoy the sunshine in Lytham St. Anne’s -sadly the days grow shorter from now on!
