The Irish Sea coastline offers endless opportunities for families looking to experience traditional seaside fun, with plenty of space to spread out and explore. The coastal path network connects charming villages like Ainsdale Village to pristine beaches, while promenade gardens provide peaceful retreats for those seeking a break from the sand. As the sun sets over the water, the views become truly spectacular, making these shores among the finest in the UK.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in North West England:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Albert Luxury Hottub & Jacuzzi Apartments
- ✨ 5-Star: Boulevard Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Luxury Historic House
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Lovely 2 Bedroom Flat in Centre of Formby
- 💸 Cheap: Holland House New Brighton
- 🏢 Apartament: Orchid House Liverpool
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Bay View Apartment Newbiggin-by-the-Sea
- 🏩 For Couples: Marine Lake Apartment
No visit to the North West’s beaches would be complete without experiencing the unique character of each location – from St Annes’ genteel charm to the wild beauty of Merseyside’s beaches. The National Trust manages several key sites along this stretch, preserving both natural habitats and historic coastal features. Whether you’re seeking thrilling watersports, peaceful nature walks, or traditional seaside entertainment, the best times to visit are during the warmer months when you can fully appreciate these remarkable coastal destinations that have been delighting visitors for generations.
Best Beaches in North West England: Quick Overview
- 🏖️ For Classic British seaside: Blackpool Beach
- 🌊 For Vast sandy shores: Formby Beach
- 🏛️ For Unique beach art: Crosby Beach
- 🍽️ For Lively promenade: New Brighton Beach
- 🚶♂️ For Untouched paradise: Newbiggin Beach
- 🐕 For Dog-friendly coast: Ainsdale Beach
- 🏊♀️ For Water sports hub: West Kirby Beach
- 🌅 For Stunning sunsets: Southport Beach
1. 🏖️ Classic British seaside: Blackpool Beach
Natural Setting: Blackpool Beach stretches for 7 miles along the Lancashire coast, offering a vast expanse of golden sand that has been a quintessential British seaside destination for over a century. The beach is backed by a vibrant promenade, with the iconic Blackpool Tower dominating the skyline. The Irish Sea provides a dramatic backdrop, with its ever-changing moods from calm summer days to wild winter storms.
Beach Features: The beach is divided into several sections, each with its own character. Central Beach, near Blackpool Tower, is the busiest and most developed, while North and South beaches offer more space and tranquility. The beach’s gentle slope makes it ideal for paddling and swimming during high tide, while low tide reveals a vast playground for beachcombing and sandcastle building.
Activities: Blackpool Beach is a hub of seaside entertainment. Donkey rides, a tradition dating back to the 19th century, delight children along the shore. The nearby Pleasure Beach amusement park offers thrilling rides for all ages. Beach volleyball courts and designated areas for kite flying provide active pursuits, while the three piers extending into the sea offer fishing opportunities and traditional arcade games.
Amenities: The promenade is lined with a variety of amenities, from traditional fish and chip shops to modern cafes and restaurants. Deckchair and windbreak rentals are available, as well as fully equipped beach huts for daily hire. Public toilets, showers, and first aid facilities are conveniently located along the beachfront.
Evening Experience: As the sun sets, Blackpool Beach transforms into a magical spectacle during the famous Blackpool Illuminations. The promenade comes alive with millions of twinkling lights, creating a dazzling display that stretches for six miles. The reflection of the lights on the sea creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, drawing visitors to enjoy evening strolls along the illuminated shoreline.
Best Hotels Near Blackpool Beach
- Albert Luxury Hottub & Jacuzzi Apartments: Offering luxurious accommodations with private hot tubs and jacuzzis, these apartments provide a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence. Guests can enjoy modern amenities and a prime location for exploring the area.
- Boulevard Hotel: Located just 150 meters from the beach, this hotel offers stunning ocean views and top-notch amenities. Guests can enjoy a fitness center, beachfront access, and an on-site restaurant serving delicious meals.
- The Redstone Guesthouse: A charming guesthouse offering comfortable accommodations with a personal touch. Visitors can expect a warm welcome and convenient access to local attractions and beaches.
2. 🌊 Vast sandy shores: Formby Beach
Natural Setting: Formby Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline in Merseyside, characterized by its expansive golden sands and towering sand dunes. The beach is part of the Sefton Coast, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and is backed by a picturesque pine woodland. This unique combination of ecosystems creates a diverse and beautiful landscape that changes with the seasons.
Beach Features: The beach extends for several miles, offering ample space for visitors even on the busiest days. The sand dunes, some of the highest in the UK, provide natural windbreaks and create secluded spots for sunbathing. At low tide, the receding waters reveal fascinating prehistoric footprints preserved in the mud, offering glimpses into the area’s ancient past.
Activities: Formby Beach is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The adjacent pine woods are home to one of the UK’s last red squirrel populations, making wildlife spotting a popular activity. The vast sands are perfect for kite flying and beach games, while the dunes offer challenging terrain for sand-boarding. The waters are suitable for swimming and bodyboarding, though visitors should be aware of strong currents.
Amenities: While Formby Beach maintains a natural, unspoiled feel, it offers essential amenities for visitors. There’s a large car park managed by the National Trust, with toilet facilities and a small shop selling refreshments and beach essentials. Picnic areas are available in the pine woods, and there are several marked trails for exploring the diverse habitats.
Evening Experience: As the day winds down, Formby Beach becomes a serene spot for watching spectacular sunsets over the Irish Sea. The vast open skies and uninterrupted views of the horizon create a breathtaking panorama of colors. On clear nights, the lack of light pollution makes it an excellent location for stargazing, with the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights during certain times of the year.
Best Hotels Near Formby Beach
- Lovely 2 Bedroom Flat in Centre of Formby: Located just 350 meters from Formby’s center, this spacious apartment offers accommodation for up to 6 guests. Visitors can enjoy nearby activities including cycling, tennis, and golf, plus easy access to the beach and local pubs.
- Dora Cottage: A highly-rated accommodation, situated 1.2 km from Formby center. Perfect for families, this cozy cottage features two bedrooms and can comfortably host up to 4 guests.
- Drey Close: An exceptional property with, featuring a luxurious hot tub and modern amenities. Located 1.5 km from Formby center, it provides a perfect blend of comfort and relaxation.
3. 🏛️ Unique beach art: Crosby Beach
Natural Setting: Crosby Beach is a three-mile stretch of sand north of Liverpool, offering panoramic views across the River Mersey and the Irish Sea. The beach is part of the Crosby Coastal Park and is characterized by its wide, flat sands that extend far out at low tide. The coastline here is dynamic, shaped by strong tidal currents and prevailing winds.
Beach Features: The most striking feature of Crosby Beach is the installation of 100 cast-iron figures known as “Another Place” by renowned artist Antony Gormley. These life-size statues are spread out across the beach and into the sea, creating a haunting and ever-changing landscape as they are submerged and revealed by the tides. The beach itself is a mix of sand and shingle, with interesting rock formations visible at low tide.
Activities: The presence of the Gormley statues makes Crosby Beach a unique destination for art enthusiasts and photographers. Visitors often engage in “statue hunting,” trying to spot all 100 figures at various states of submersion. The beach is also popular for walking and jogging, with a promenade running its length. While swimming is not advised due to strong currents, kitesurfing and windsurfing are popular when conditions are right.
Amenities: Crosby Beach offers a range of facilities to enhance the visitor experience. There’s ample parking along the promenade, as well as public toilets and shower facilities. The nearby Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre provides refreshments and additional activities. Information boards along the beach provide details about the art installation and local wildlife.
Evening Experience: As the sun sets, Crosby Beach transforms into a magical landscape. The low light creates dramatic silhouettes of the Gormley statues, offering incredible photographic opportunities. The beach faces west, making it an ideal spot for watching the sun sink into the Irish Sea. On clear evenings, the lights of ships entering and leaving the Mersey estuary add to the atmospheric scene.
Best Hotels Near Crosby Beach
- Luxury Historic House: A beautifully preserved historic property offering elegant accommodations with modern amenities. Perfect for those seeking a unique stay with character and charm.
- The Royal Hotel: Located just 750 meters from the beach, this hotel features two restaurants and excellent breakfast options. Guests can enjoy various activities including golf and themed dinners, while being just 7 km from Liverpool city center.
- Woodlands Guest House: A comfortable guest house providing a cozy atmosphere and convenient location for exploring Liverpool. Ideal for travelers seeking a homely environment with personal service.
4. 🍽️ Lively promenade: New Brighton Beach
Natural Setting: New Brighton Beach is situated at the northeastern tip of the Wirral Peninsula, offering stunning views across Liverpool Bay and the River Mersey estuary. The beach is a long stretch of golden sand, backed by a vibrant promenade that has undergone significant regeneration in recent years. The beach faces east, providing shelter from prevailing winds and creating a microclimate that’s often warmer than surrounding areas.
Beach Features: The beach is divided into two main sections by the historic New Brighton Pier. The northern section is wilder and more natural, while the southern part is more developed and family-oriented. At low tide, the beach extends far out, revealing interesting rock pools and the remains of an old submarine defense system from World War II.
Activities: New Brighton Beach offers a wide range of activities for all ages. The Marine Lake, adjacent to the beach, is popular for sailing and paddleboarding. The promenade features a long cycle path, perfect for leisurely bike rides or rollerblading. Children enjoy the traditional seaside amusements, including a small funfair and arcades. The Fort Perch Rock, a former coastal defense battery, now serves as a local history museum.
Amenities: The promenade is the heart of New Brighton’s seaside experience, offering a diverse array of amenities. The Marine Point development includes a cinema, bowling alley, and numerous restaurants and cafes with sea views. There are well-maintained public toilets, shower facilities, and plenty of seating areas along the promenade. The Floral Pavilion Theatre provides cultural entertainment, while the Championship Adventure Golf offers family fun.
Evening Experience: As night falls, New Brighton’s promenade comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere. The illuminated Marine Point complex creates a festive ambiance, with outdoor seating areas of restaurants and bars filling up with visitors enjoying the sea air. The lights of Liverpool across the Mersey provide a stunning backdrop, especially when reflected in the calm waters of the Marine Lake. During summer, open-air concerts and events often take place, adding to the lively evening scene.
Best Hotels Near New Brighton Beach
- Holland House New Brighton: A budget-friendly accommodation offering comfortable rooms in a convenient location. Perfect for travelers seeking value for money while exploring New Brighton.
- The New Brighton Hotel: Located just 200 meters from the city center, this welcoming hotel offers excellent breakfast options. Guests can enjoy live music performances, sports broadcasts, and various room types suitable for different group sizes
- Well-appointed apartment in New Brighton: A highly-rated apartment, located 500 meters from the city center. This spacious accommodation can host up to 6 guests and features one bedroom with modern amenities
5. 🚶♂️ Untouched paradise: Newbiggin Beach
Natural Setting: Newbiggin Beach is a hidden gem on the Northumberland coast, offering a tranquil escape from the more crowded seaside resorts. The beach forms a sweeping bay, flanked by rocky headlands that provide shelter and create a sense of seclusion. The coastline here is part of the Northumberland Shore Site of Special Scientific Interest, known for its diverse marine life and geological features.
Beach Features: The beach is a mix of golden sand and shingle, with interesting rock formations visible at low tide. One of its most striking features is the “Couple” sculpture by Sean Henry, which stands in the sea just offshore, creating an intriguing focal point. The beach is backed by a promenade and grassy areas, providing a natural transition to the town.
Activities: Newbiggin Beach is perfect for those seeking a peaceful coastal experience. It’s an excellent spot for beachcombing, with a variety of shells and sea glass to be found. The bay’s calm waters make it suitable for sea kayaking and paddleboarding. Birdwatching is popular, especially during migration seasons when the bay attracts a variety of seabirds. The Newbiggin Maritime Centre offers insights into the area’s rich fishing heritage.
Amenities: While Newbiggin Beach maintains an unspoiled feel, it offers essential amenities for visitors. There’s a car park near the beach with public toilets and a small cafe. The promenade provides seating areas and information boards about local wildlife and history. The nearby town center offers additional dining options and shops for essentials.
Evening Experience: As day turns to night, Newbiggin Beach offers a serene and contemplative atmosphere. The lack of commercial development means minimal light pollution, making it an excellent spot for stargazing on clear nights. The sound of waves lapping against the shore and the silhouette of the “Couple” sculpture create a romantic setting for evening walks. During summer, the long northern twilight bathes the beach in a soft, ethereal light, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Best Hotels Near Newbiggin Beach
- Bay View Apartment: Located just 100 meters from the beach, this apartment offers comfortable accommodation with a terrace. Guests can enjoy various activities including bowling, fishing, and golf, all within easy reach.
- Captains Lodge: Situated just 50 meters from the beach, this offers excellent access to activities like diving, windsurfing, and cycling. Perfect for active travelers, with multiple pubs nearby and great walking routes.
- Sandridge Northumberland: A comfortable guest house providing easy access to local attractions and beaches. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful coastal retreat with convenient amenities.
6. 🐕 Dog-friendly coast: Ainsdale Beach
Natural Setting: Ainsdale Beach is part of the Sefton Coast, a stunning stretch of coastline in Merseyside known for its expansive sand dunes and diverse wildlife. The beach itself is a vast expanse of golden sand that seems to stretch endlessly, backed by an impressive dune system that’s home to rare flora and fauna. The area is part of the Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve, adding to its ecological significance.
Beach Features: The beach is characterized by its wide, flat sands that extend far out at low tide, creating an immense playground for dogs and their owners. The dunes behind the beach are some of the largest in England, offering a unique landscape that changes with the seasons. At certain times, the receding tide reveals fascinating shipwrecks, adding an element of historical interest to beach walks.
Activities: Ainsdale Beach is a paradise for dog owners, with no seasonal restrictions on canine visitors. The vast open space is perfect for dogs to run freely and play fetch. For humans, the beach is popular for kite flying and land yachting due to its consistent winds. The dunes offer excellent opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching, with designated trails providing access to different habitats.
Amenities: While maintaining a natural feel, Ainsdale Beach offers amenities to enhance the visitor experience. There’s a large car park with easy beach access, public toilets, and a seasonal cafe. The Ainsdale Discovery Centre provides information about the local ecosystem and offers educational programs. There are also designated areas for barbecues, making it a popular spot for family gatherings.
Evening Experience: As the sun sets, Ainsdale Beach transforms into a tranquil haven. The vast open skies create spectacular sunsets, with the dunes silhouetted against the colorful horizon. The beach faces west, making it an ideal spot for watching the sun sink into the Irish Sea. In the quieter evening hours, it’s not uncommon to spot local wildlife emerging from the dunes, adding to the magical atmosphere.
Best Hotels Near Ainsdale Beach
- Orchid House: Located 550 meters from the beach, this cozy apartment offers various activities including bowling, fishing, and tennis. Perfect for couples or small families, it features one bedroom and scores a solid from recent reviews.
- Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa: A luxurious resort featuring a spa center, fitness facilities, and multiple dining options including the Fairway Grill restaurant. Guests can enjoy various wellness activities including yoga classes, swimming pool, and specialized spa treatments.
- Spacious Victorian Birkdale Apartment with Garden: A Victorian apartment with two bedrooms accommodating up to 8 guests, located just 1.1 km from the beach and city center. The property features a garden and is conveniently situated near golf courses.
7. 🏊♀️ Water sports hub: West Kirby Beach
Natural Setting: West Kirby Beach is situated on the Wirral Peninsula, offering stunning views across the Dee Estuary towards the Welsh hills. The beach is characterized by its long stretch of sand and a unique marine lake, separated from the sea by a sandstone wall. This combination of open sea and enclosed lake creates diverse conditions perfect for various water sports.
Beach Features: The beach itself is a mix of sand and shingle, extending along the promenade. At low tide, a vast expanse of sand is revealed, connecting the mainland to the nearby Hilbre Islands. The marine lake, a rectangular body of saltwater covering about 52 acres, is the beach’s most distinctive feature, providing calm waters for water sports enthusiasts.
Activities: West Kirby is renowned as a water sports paradise. The marine lake is ideal for windsurfing, sailing, and paddleboarding, with consistent winds and flat water conditions. Kitesurfing is popular on the main beach when conditions are right. For those preferring land-based activities, the beach is excellent for kite flying and sandcastle building. The walk to Hilbre Island at low tide is a popular adventure, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Amenities: The beach and marine lake are well-equipped for visitors. There’s a sailing center offering equipment rentals and lessons for various water sports. The promenade features several cafes and ice cream shops, as well as public toilets and shower facilities. Deckchair rentals are available during summer months. The nearby town center offers a range of restaurants and shops.
Evening Experience: As day turns to night, West Kirby Beach offers a serene setting for evening strolls. The marine lake, often still busy with water sports enthusiasts until dusk, becomes a mirror-like surface reflecting the colors of the sunset. The promenade comes alive with people enjoying evening walks and the cooling sea breeze. On clear nights, the lights of the North Wales coast twinkle across the estuary, creating a magical atmosphere.
Best Hotels Near West Kirby Beach
- Detached 2-Story Property in the Heart of Town: This spacious two-story property is situated in a central location, making it ideal for exploring local attractions. With modern amenities and comfortable living spaces, it’s perfect for families or groups looking for a convenient stay.
- Victorian Home 200m from Seafront: Located just 200 meters from the seafront, this beautifully maintained Victorian home offers a charming atmosphere with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy a highly-rated breakfast and easy access to local beaches and attractions.
- Marine Lake Apartment: This well-appointed apartment is situated in the heart of Southport, just a short walk from Marine Lake. Ideal for couples, it features cozy accommodations and is close to local dining options and entertainment.
8. 🌅 Stunning sunsets: Southport Beach
Natural Setting: Southport Beach is part of the Sefton Coast, a long stretch of sandy shoreline in Merseyside. The beach is characterized by its vast expanse of flat sand that extends for miles, creating an otherworldly landscape at low tide. Backed by elegant Victorian architecture and manicured gardens, Southport Beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty and classic seaside charm.
Beach Features: The most striking feature of Southport Beach is its sheer size – at low tide, the sea can be over a mile away from the promenade. This creates an immense playground of sand, perfect for long walks and beach activities. The beach is punctuated by Southport Pier, the second longest pleasure pier in Britain, stretching out towards the distant sea.
Activities: Southport Beach offers a wide range of activities for all ages. The vast sands are perfect for kite flying, land yachting, and beach games. Horse riding along the shore is a popular activity, offering a unique way to experience the beach’s vastness. The pier provides a pleasant walk out to sea, with a tram service for those preferring a ride. Birdwatching is excellent, especially in the nearby Marshside RSPB reserve.
Amenities: Southport’s Victorian heritage is evident in its well-maintained promenade and gardens adjacent to the beach. The town offers a wide range of amenities, from traditional fish and chip shops to upscale restaurants. There are plenty of public toilets, shower facilities, and beach shops along the promenade. The nearby Pleasureland amusement park provides additional entertainment for families.
Evening Experience: Southport Beach is renowned for its spectacular sunsets, which are enhanced by the vast open skies and distant horizon. As the sun sinks towards the Irish Sea, it paints the sky and the wet sand in a palette of vibrant colors, creating breathtaking vistas. The pier, silhouetted against the setting sun, offers an iconic photo opportunity. After sunset, the illuminated gardens and promenade create a magical atmosphere for evening strolls, with the sound of the distant sea providing a soothing backdrop.
Best Hotels Near Southport Beach
- Orchid House: Located in Southport, this apartment features a cozy atmosphere and is just 550 meters from the beach. Guests can enjoy various activities such as bowling, fishing, and tennis, making it a great choice for families or couples looking for a relaxing getaway.
- Tiny Beach House: This charming beach house offers a unique and intimate setting, perfect for a romantic getaway or a solo retreat. With stunning views and easy access to the beach, it provides a cozy atmosphere for guests to unwind and enjoy the seaside.
- St Annes Beach Apartments: Located just 150 meters from the beach, these apartments boast excellent ratings and a variety of accommodation options for families or groups. Guests can enjoy amenities like mini-golf and table tennis while being close to local attractions.
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best sandy beaches in the North West of England?
The North West boasts plenty of good sandy beaches, each with its own unique character. Some of the finest include the vast expanses of Formby Beach, the golden sands of Ainsdale Beach, and the picturesque Haverigg Beach on the edge of the Lake District. These beaches offer not only great British seaside experiences but also stunning natural beauty, with sand dunes and vast areas of unspoiled coastline to explore.
Are there any beaches in the North West that are particularly good for water sports?
Yes, several beaches in the area are popular spots for water sports enthusiasts. West Kirby Beach on the Merseyside coast is a hub for activities like windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to its consistent winds and large marine lake. Ainsdale Beach is also a great spot for kite buggies and other beach-based sports, with its wide, flat sands and bountiful sand dunes.
What are some of the most scenic beaches in the North West?
The North West is home to some truly stunning coastal scenery. The beaches around the Duddon Estuary, on the edge of the Lake District, offer breathtaking views of the surrounding fells and mountains, while the views across Morecambe Bay from St Annes Beach are equally impressive. For a unique and thought-provoking experience, visit Crosby Beach to see Antony Gormley’s “Another Place” art installation, which features 100 life-size iron figures gazing out to sea.
Are there any beaches in the North West that are located in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty?
Yes, several beaches in the region are situated within designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The Sefton Coast, which includes Formby Beach and Ainsdale Beach, is a prime example, with its stunning sand dunes and vast areas of unspoiled coastline. The beaches around the Duddon Estuary are also located within the Arnside and Silverdale AONB, known for its diverse wildlife and striking limestone pavements.
What are some of the best beaches to visit within an hour’s drive of Liverpool?
If you’re looking for great beaches within an hour’s drive of Liverpool, you’re spoilt for choice. Formby Beach, with its red squirrel reserve and stunning dunes, is just a short drive away, as is Crosby Beach with its iconic “Another Place” art installation. Slightly further afield, but still easily accessible, are the bustling seaside town of Southport and the tranquil stretches of the Sefton Coast, including Ainsdale Beach.
Are there any beaches in the North West that offer traditional British seaside experiences?
Yes, many beaches in the area offer quintessential British seaside experiences. Blackpool is perhaps the most famous example, with its iconic tower, Pleasure Beach amusement park, and Madame Tussauds wax museum. Southport is another classic seaside town, with its Grade II listed pier, traditional amusement arcades, and miniature railway. For a more low-key experience, head to St Annes or Morecambe, where you can enjoy fish and chips and ice cream while strolling along the promenade.
What are some hidden gem beaches in the North West that are worth seeking out?
While the North West has plenty of well-known beaches, there are also some hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Haverigg Beach, on the edge of the Lake District, is a peaceful spot with stunning views of the Lakeland fells, while the beaches of the Duddon Estuary offer a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy some tranquility. For something truly unique, take a trip to Hilbre Island off the coast of West Kirby – this tiny island is cut off from the mainland at high tide, but at low tide, you can walk across the sands and explore its rugged coastline and diverse wildlife.
