Signatures Liverpool Liverpool News and EventsFor a sunny day out or a brisk and breezy stroll, look no further than our guide to the best family walks and trails near Liverpool.
We’ve uncovered something perfect for everyone. From the exquisite beauty of Hale Village to scenic and sandy Thurstaston beach, there’s no need to travel far.
So this weekend, why not gather together the whole gang for an unforgettable day out?
Each destination is only a short drive from Liverpool or can be reached easily by public transport.
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Hale Village and Hale Head Lighthouse
Only a short drive from the heart of Liverpool, Hale Village is a serene hidden gem and of course, stepped in history.
Park your car near the Childe of Hale pub and spend some time exploring the charming village and its mesmerising tales.
The village is renowned for the legend of John Middleton, often remembered as the Childe of Hale.
Make sure you don’t miss out on a visit to Middleton’s former home, one of Hale’s most lovely thatched cottages.
You can also pay a visit to his grave in the churchyard of St Mary’s on Church Road – the grave is easy to spot and reads “Here lyeth the bodie of John Middleton the Childe. Nine feet three. Borne 1578. Dyede 1623.”
Follow the path down to the shore to reach the kissing-gate where you’ll find a signpost to lead you off on your adventure.
The trail covers from Rixton to Garston, with plenty of scenery and wildlife to look out for along the way.
You’ll also discover the Hale Head Lighthouse along the shore path before continuing beside the estuary and back towards the village, where we’re sure you’ll want to reward yourself with a pint!
Wirral Way and Thurstaston Beach
Undoubtedly one of the most picturesque of walks near Liverpool, it’s well-worth taking a trip to Wirral Way and Country Park as well as Thurstaston Beach.
The Wirral Way incorporates Wirral Country Park along the way, so you can take a walk along the disused railway line and beautiful coastal path taking you on a journey along Wirral Penisular.
Wirral Country Park is a fantastic spot to stop off with a picnic or even for a summer BBQ, with spacious areas catering for both.
If you cut through the Country Park towards the beach, you’ll find an enchanting, deciduous set of steps leading you down to the sandy seafront.
One of the most dog-friendly walks near Liverpool, take a stroll right along the beach for captivating views and a glimpse of Shore Cottage Studio.
The working artists’ studio adds a unique touch to the aesthetic of the beach itself, offering a creative haven for those in search of inspiration.
Whether it’s a warm day in summer or a breezy Autumnal weekend, you can expect a dynamic day of scenery that’s sure to leave you feeling restored and refreshed.
Hilbre Island
Take a trip to Hilbre Island for a day out like no other.
Families have flocked to the island for picturesque picnics and impressive views since for generations – and it’s easy to see why!
Before setting out, it’s important to check the times of the tide and plan ahead, leaving yourself more than enough time to get back.
The island is home to an array of wildlife and is equipped with its very own Bird Observatory.
Though the island is far from eerie on a bright and sunny day, it’s easy to see how the atmospheric island may have inspired detective novels by Ann Cleeves.
The author and her husband lived on the island working as auxiliary coastguards for four years. Cleeves’ books Come Death and High Water were written on the island itself.
Whilst talking about the island, Cleeves commented:
“It’s a wild, wonderful, lonely location – the perfect place for a murder.”
So if you’re in search of a day of adventure and mystery, why not take a look for yourself?
Otterspool Promenade to Pier Head
If you fancy challenging yourself to a long walk with lots of Liverpool sights, Otterspool Promenade to the Pier Head could be just for you.
If you’re visiting Liverpool for the first time, this is a fantastic way to get a real taste of the city and take in the magnificent landmarks along the way.
You may want to take a well earned break at one of the waterside pubs to break up the journey and make the most of the day.
Otterspool Promenade features a large playground area, so if you fancy bringing the kids along you may want to pay it a visit first.
When you reach the Pier Head, you’ll be blown away by the splendour of Liverpool’s historic and grand architecture.
Sefton Coastal Path
Taking you along the Sefton coastline from Crosby to Southport, the Sefton Coastal Path is an ideal walk for an afternoon of fresh air and scenery.
This trail is well-marked so you won’t have too much trouble navigating your way around it and there’s plenty to see along the way.
The seafront offers striking views of Liverpool, New Brighton and North Wales, while we also recommend taking a stroll down to the beach to see Antony Gormey’s famous iron men.
‘Another Place’ by Anthony Gormley features 100 cast-iron, life-size figures staring out to sea at the horizon.
After you’ve taken a few snaps of the iron men, carry on along the path towards Hightown but keep an eye out for remains of war bunkers within the dunes and art installation The Pebble.
Eventually, you’ll come to Formby where you’ll find the lovely Ainsdale National Nature Reserve.
The trail ends with Royal Birkdale Golf Course and the scenic pier of seaside town Southport.
At this point, it’s probably time for some ice cream!
Parkgate
On a sunny day, there are few better places to take a walk than the village of Parkgate.
The picturesque coastal resort has entertained families for decades, offering an abundance of wildlife and scenery alongside plenty of spots to grab a bite to eat.
And a day out to Parkgate wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Nicholls.
A local treasure and a favourite amongst visitors, the renowned ice-cream parlour has been serving an array of flavours of high-quality, delicious ice cream to customers since 1937!
What better way to spend a summer afternoon?
Formby Beach
There are few better family-friendly walks and trails near Liverpool than Formby.
With so much to do, why not bring the little ones along for an unforgettable day out?
You’ll make memories to cherish spotting the red squirrels as you explore the enchanting woodlands of Formby.
Perfect for a scenic picnic surrounded by nature, there’s lots of space to stop off for a rest and some sandwiches.
Afterwards, head further down to the sand tunes for breath taking views, a paddle in the sea and soft sand between your toes.
Delamere Forest
Perfect for catching the colours of Autumn foliage or rays of summer sun, escape the hustle and bustle of the city at Delamere Forest.
A favourite for nature and wildlife lovers, Delamere is home to everything from the small tortoiseshell butterfly to the green woodpecker.
And for those in search of some challenge and adventure, you’ll discover the high ropes of Go Ape overlooking the forest and the lake.
But don’t worry, if you’d prefer to keep your feet on the ground, there’s a variety of long-distance footpaths meandering through the forest.
The Sandstone Trial, Delamere Way and Baker Way are all worth backing a backpack for and heading off for a stroll.
We’d love to hear about your favourite walks and trails near Liverpool!
