Blow away the winter cobwebs at these Merseyside beaches

It’s time to get outside and blow away the winter cobwebs with a coastal walk. Here in Merseyside we are blessed with some of the most picturesque beaches in the country and they’re easy to reach as well.

Here is our pick of ten of the best beaches and walks to enjoy.

Hightown

Situated where the Mersey Estuary meets Liverpool Bay, Hightown is a dramatic and gorgeous beach.

Easily reached by train, and quieter than its Formby neighbour, Hightown beach is a gem.

On a clear day you’ll be able to view the wind farm in the distance and even the snow tipped hills of north Wales. 

Wind your way through the sand dunes on the coastal footpaths and look out for the local wildlife as we move into spring.

Watch out for the noise from nearby Altcar territorial rifle range though! The occasional noise might disturb the peace and quiet but it certainly makes this a unique beach to visit.

Once you have finished your walk then we can highly recommend the Hightown pub for a meal and drink. This family run pub also has a lovely garden as well if the sun is making a welcome appearance.

Formby

Formby is probably one of the busiest beaches in the region and for good reason.

Not only are there miles of sand to stretch your legs and views north to Blackpool to enjoy, there are also lots of trails through the woods to discover.

Parking is busy and chargeable in the National Trust run car parks, and the local roads fill up fast, so we’d recommend catching the train. You can reach the beach easily from both Formby and Freshfield stations on Merseyrail.

Once there, enjoy striding out for a long walk – but check the tide times in advance as the beach can quickly disappear at high tide.

Our advice is to head north on the beach to escape the crowds. This beach remains popular right throughout the winter months.

Once you’ve enjoyed a long walk you can warm up with a hot drink and snacks at No.6, the new café and kitchen opposite Freshfield station, or head into Delish in Formby village for one of their famous ice creams.

Southport

Who doesn’t love a day out to Southport? This resort has been welcoming visitors for hundreds of years and the beach is one of the main reasons for its popularity.

With miles of beach backed up by nearby activities for the family, there is always fun to be had at the seaside.

Wrap up warm, pack some snacks and find a spot on the endless sand, or in the dunes, and enjoy a winter picnic.

Like its neighbours in Ainsdale and Formby, there are dunes to explore and wildlife to spot as well as great views north to Lancashire and south to the Welsh hills.

And during autumn and winter you might be lucky enough to spot some migrating birds in formation heading south for warmer climes.

Crosby

There are so many reasons to enjoy a walk at Crosby beach, like the coastal paths, the ice cream van, the views of Liverpool docks or stopping for lunch at The Lake House.

But what really makes this stretch of sand unique is the art installation know affectionately as the iron men.

Antony Gormley’s Another Place has become as familiar to Crosby as the pastel coloured houses that were once home to ships’ captains. With 100 figures spreading across three kilometres, looking out to sea, this beach has quite rightly become a tourist attraction like no other in the region.

The perfect place to blow away the winter cobwebs and enjoy some art at the same time.

West Kirby 

This beach might only be 300 metres long, but it’s still well worth a visit if you haven’t enjoyed a winter walk here before.

As well as enjoying a stroll on the sand, you can enjoy the sights of the Marine Lake and its sailing school, or find a way through the sand dunes.

If you check the tides carefully in advance, you can even make your way over the sand to Hilbre Island – but take care and ensure you leave plenty of time to make your way back before the tide rises again.

Thurstaston 

Enjoy a walk with a view at this popular Wirral beach.

Make your way down the steps to enjoy a wander along this stretch of sand and rock pools, while taking in the dramatic views of the Dee estuary.

The beach is overlooked by the gorgeous Wirral Country Park which means you can enjoy the best of beach and countryside, making Thurstaston the perfect destination for a winter walk.

And if you want to make a real day of it then a visit to Church Farm will keep the kids happy.

New Brighton 

New Brighton has been attracting tourists since the 1800s when Liverpool merchant James Atherton developed this corner of the Wirral peninsular.

The tower and outdoor swimming pool might be gone, but there are still lots of reasons to visit New Brighton, not least its beach.

The lighthouse and Fort Perch Rock are the perfect backdrop for your pictures, and the views of Liverpool city centre are hard to beat.

And once you’ve enjoyed a walk on the front, head into town for some lunch or enjoy a coffee or ice cream at Caffe Cream.

Wallasey

Just a little further along the coast from New Brighton, Wallasey is a lovely open stretch of sand that is popular with dog walkers.

So if you have a friendly pooch then this could be the perfect place for a long beach walk.

Free parking in the area is a bonus and there’s a sheltered area of grass nearby where you can enjoy a picnic away from the elements. 

Meols 

If you want to enjoy a beach walk away from the crowds, Meols could be just the place for you.

If you head to the end of Meols Parade and make your way down the slipway, you will be able to enjoy the gorgeous sands and lovely views in relative peace and quiet.

Chances are you will spot some horse riders enjoying a gallop as you blow away the cobwebs on your winter walk and if you are lucky enough to be there at the right time, the sunset is stunning.

Hoylake

Hoylake is best visited during low tide when there is a massive expanse of sand to enjoy a winter walk.

A little quieter than neighbouring West Kirby, Hoylake is a beautiful beach to visit and enjoy the views out to the Irish Sea. Just beware the areas of the beach that can susceptible to quick sand and make sure you avoid them.

Once you’ve enjoyed a winter walk, head into the town to enjoy a wander. Popsy’s in Hoylake Parade community centre serves amazing cakes.