Whether you want rugged and secluded, posh or popular, we’re fortunate to boast some of the UK’s best beachy spots here in Merseyside and the North West.
The great British weather may be unpredictable but don’t let that stop you from seasiding this summer because there’s plenty to see and do around our coasts. Here’s a round-up of the best beaches and wicked waterfronts to add to your bucket list for the weeks ahead…
1. Cool off at Colwyn Bay
Once the fashionable seaside resort of choice for affluent Victorian travellers, Colwyn Bay remains a popular destination thanks to its three-mile promenade, 50-acre Eirias Park and new Porth Eirias development, home to a Michelin award-winning chef.
Even theatre-goers will have their appetites sated by Wales’ oldest working theatre and cinema, Theatr Colwyn, now modernised to offer a 21-st century entertainment experience.
Top tip: Leave time for a trip to the Welsh Mountain Zoo, a conservationist’s friend boasting Sumatran tigers, snow leopards and Californian sea lions!
2. Dive in at the Docks
If it’s a more exhilarating adventure you’re after, look no further than Liverpool Watersports.
Hold on tight as you embark on a fun-filled powerboat ride, glide like a pro on a paddle board, dip and dive your way through the aquapark, or dare an eerie outdoor swim - whatever you choose, prepare to get soaked!
Top Tip: Make-up lovers, don’t forget to wear waterproof mascara or you’ll resemble a panda when the fun has finished!
3. Flora and fauna it up in Formby
Formby is a nature haven for wildlife lovers, with miles of walking and cycling trails along the coast where some of Europe’s most important sand dune species’ thrive.
You can head into the pine woods, home to the National Trust’s Formby Red Squirrel Reserve, or catch a glimpse of the past thanks to the town’s prehistoric footprints and old shipwrecks.
Top Tip: Formby gets super busy in the summer and car parks fill up quickly so arrive early or travel by train if you can.
4. Summer nights in St Annes
Did you know you can spend sunny days and summer nights enjoying the stunning scenery of St Annes from your very own beach hut?
Taking pride of place on the South Promenade of The Island, St Annes Beach Huts offer a wonderfully-traditional way of exploring the enormous natural beach with the added convenience of modern facilities to enhance your seaside experience.
Top Tip: Bring your canine friends with you - dogs are welcome at the huts! But they must take place as one of the permitted occupants.
5. Music and more in Morecambe
To round off the summer, the Vintage by the Sea Festival brings music, dance, classic cars, fashion, workshops and street food against the stunning backdrop of Morecambe Bay.
This year is the festival’s 10th anniversary and promises a programme of art and culture inspired by the 20th century - from the 1920s to the 1980s.
Top Tip: Block 31st August - 1st September out in your diary and dig into your dressing up box for this free family festival.
