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Beaches & Coast in Liverpool

A day at the coast from Liverpool usually means one of three places. Crosby Beach has Antony Gormley's cast-iron figures dotted along the sand, free to wander any time. National Trust Formby is a bit further out, with dunes and pinewoods to explore, sand wheelchairs available to borrow, and no fires allowed so the wildlife stays undisturbed. Southport Beach is a longer trip out, but the seafront there is Victorian and the sand stretches for miles, with plenty of room to paddle. Crosby is the easy choice if you want free and simple, no booking, no faff. Formby suits a proper morning out, especially if you want trails to follow or need step-free access to the sand, though it does ask you to book ahead. Southport is the one for open space and a walk that does not feel hemmed in, good for older kids who want to properly stretch their legs. None of the three charge for entry, so the only real decision is how far you fancy driving.

✓ 3 places✦ 2 free to visit