Why not take a walk on the wild side?

Mersey Waterfront has some of the UK’s most stunning and unique coastline environments. Its terrain is rich and challenging, from magnificent beaches, internationally important wildlife habitats and seaside resorts to major ports and industry. So what are you waiting for? If you and the family are looking for somewhere different to go at the weekend instead of jumping in the car and heading off to another part of the country stay where you know and see what you find. For example if you take a journey from Wirral in the south to Sefton in the north you will see some of the most captivating and varied landscape in England. Or you could go exploring one of the other places listed below…

Sefton Coastal Footpath & Formby Red Squirrel Reserve

Your starting point is the 220 hectare red squirrel reserve at Formby Point, managed by The National Trust.    The length of your walk can vary dramatically, depending if you simply want a stroll through the pine woodlands to see one of the UK’s last remaining colonies of red squirrels or you’re ready for the more challenging 22km Sefton Coastal Path with its unique mix of sand dunes and asparagus fields. Other rare species found on this route include Natterjack toads and sand lizards.

Length:  1km upwards

Difficulty:  Varying – some uneven ground and sand dunes

Getting there:  By rail: Freshfield   By road: National Trust car park

For further information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk or ring the Countryside Office on 01704 878591

Hibre Island

A challenging but rewarding walk across the tidal flats of the Wirral Peninsula.  You take in the island of Little Eye before reaching Middle Eye, and then climbing the rocks to Hilbre Island itself.   There are amazing views of both the North Wales and Wirral coastlines – the real treat is, of course, is seeing the colony of grey seals that inhabit the area.

There are no toilets and little shelter on the Islands so suitable clothing advisable.  

Length: 8km (there and back)

Difficulty: Difficult  - It is essential to check tide times before attempting to cross to the islands, and safety advice should be taken from the Wirral Ranger Service before setting out

Getting there: By rail: West Kirby  By road: Parking at West Kirby Marine Lake

To help protect this sensitive area groups of 6 or more require a permit from Wirral Country Park, available on 0151 648 4371

Pickerings Pasture, Widnes

With wild flower meadows and views across the Mersey Estuary, Pickerings Pasture is an award-winning nature reserve.  It is a peaceful place for watching wildlife and enjoying picnics, with surfaced paths leading you along the waterfront.   For added interest, you can continue the route offshore towards the picturesque village of Hale.

Length:  1.5km + 4km to Hale (there and back)

Difficulty: Moderate

Getting there:   By road: Free car parking at Pickerings Pasture (signposted from Silver Jubilee Bridge)

For further information call the Parks and Countryside Service on 0151 424 2061 ext 4061

Otterspool Park & Promenade

Head along Otterspool Prom towards Liverpool as far as the 1984 Garden Festival Site, and loop back to Otterspool Park  - a perennial favourite with kite flyers and a good spot for a pub lunch.  With expansive views across the widest part of the Mersey Estuary, this Victorian Prom is in line for a revamp over the next couple of months with plans to create new landscaping and install improved seating and signposting.

Length:  4km  (there and back)

Difficulty:  Easy – also suitable for cycling and roller-blading

Getting there:  By rail: Aigburth.     By road:  Free car parking at Otterspool Park.

Wirral Way, Thurstaton

This walk begins at Wirral Country Park Visitor Centre and takes you along The Wirral Way to West Kirby via Ashton Park (an award winning Green Flag park).  This route is straight and level as it follows the track of an old railway line, running alongside the environmentally sensitive Dee Estuary.  Recently upgraded for walking, cycling and horse riding, this walk takes you through the country’s first ever country park.  Badgers and foxes have also been spotted in the area.

Length:  8km (there and back)

Difficulty:   Easy-moderate – wheelchair accessible

Getting there:   By road: Free parking at Thurstaston Visitor Centre

Crosby Marine Lake & Another Place

Follow a circular route around Crosby Marine Lake.    A new footpath was created last year with viewing points designed for wheelchairs and people with mobility difficulties.  If you don’t mind getting sand in your shoes, the lake stands alongside Antony Gormley’s spectacular sculptures.  Spread along 3km of Crosby beach, it is a great chance to see the famous ‘Iron Men’.

Length:  2.5km (around the lake) + 6km (along the beach and back)   

Difficulty:  Moderate

Getting there:   By rail: Waterloo for the Marine Lake.  Blundellsands & Crosby or Hall Road for Another Place.  By road: Free parking at Marine Lake Car Park.

Speke Garston Coastal Park

Take a circular walk around the only existing piece of natural coastline in the Liverpool City Council area, a newly created nature reserve revitalised by pathways, landscaping, seating, and viewpoints for bird watching.  En-route you will get uninterrupted views of the Mersey as well as the seeing the new state-of-the art sailing club currently under construction.  There is also access to the historic Speke Hall - one of the most famous Tudor manors in Britain.

Length:  2.5km (circular route) + 2km to Speke Hall

Difficulty:  Moderate – includes some steps