Coastal Attractions

Wirral Beaches and Coastal Parks

On the East Coast, with superb views over the Mersey, lies Eastham Country Park. The broad-leaved woodland supports a variety of wildlife and contains some of the finest trees in Wirral, The cliffs at Eastham Country Park provide superb sites for viewing the flocks of waders and ducks on the Estuary.

Located to the North of the Wirral Peninsula is Vale Park. The park leads down to Egremont Promenade, from where there are magnificent views over the River Mersey to the Liverpool waterfront. The waterfront is world famous and this is reflected in its recently awarded World Heritage Site status. Vale Park has beautiful gardens and a full programme of summer events in its Art Deco Bandstand.

At the top of the Peninsula lies the North Wirral Coastal Park, stretching for four miles and with its very own 18th century lighthouse, Leasowe Lighthouse.

On the west coast lies Wirral Country Park, Thurstaston and Hilbre Islands with their fantastic views over the River Dee to the Welsh shore, a mere 5-miles away. Search for crabs and seashells on this sandy shore, count the different birds, watch for weasels in the hedgerows or explore the waterfall and old oak woodland of the 'Dungeon'. Within the park lie many opportunities for cycling, walking and horse riding.

There are also picnic areas and a visitor centre. The Dee Estuary dominates the park from Neston to West Kirby and is world famous amongst the bird-watching community.

Hilbre Islands

Hilbre Islands are the three tidal islands lying at the mouth of the Dee Estuary. They are designated as Local Nature Reserves so access is free of charge.

The Hilbre Islands are not only a beautiful place to visit, but are an important stopping off point for the twice-yearly migration of birds along the West Coast of Britain. This was the main reason for the founding of the Hilbre Island Bird Observatory in 1957, which now often sees several very uncommon species of visiting birds.

Leasowe Lighthouse

Built in 1763, Leasowe Lighthouse is the oldest brick built lighthouse in Britain. It stands one hundred and one feet (27 metres) tall on Leasowe Common, and was one of four lights on the North Wirral Foreshore, used to guide ships into the entrance to the Rock Channel and the port of Liverpool. Now a site of public interest, the Lighthouse features guided tours, special events and a Visitor Centre with displays about Leasowe, North Wirral Coastal Park and the Wirral Coastline.

Fort Perch Rock

Fort Perch Rock was built as a coastal defence battery during the Napoleonic period to protect the Port of Liverpool. It is open all year round and features a museum, exhibitions, tea-room and it the venue for many exciting events.It features an Aviation and Archaeology Museum, as well as a 'Luftwaffe over Merseyside' permanent exhibition.

West Kirby Marine Lake

Surrounded by water on three sides and with strong breezes from the Irish Sea, Wirral is a haven for "windcatchers" and there is no more perfect place than West Kirby Marine Lake. Set at the very tip of the Peninsula with stunning views of the Welsh Hills and the Dee Estuary, this man-made saltwater lake is fast becoming a top tourist destination. It is 52 acres in size, 5 foot deep and totally enclosed.