Lancaster is an historic city located in the county of Lancashire, in the north-west of England. A population of approximately 146,038 makes it the fourth largest district council in the county. The city covers an area of approximately 576.2 km2, is located 7 km from the coast and includes the seaside town of Morecambe. It is the most northerly city in Lancashire, is located on the river Lune and was once one of the most important ports in England.