Manchester, a vibrant city known for its rich history and dynamic culture, serves as an excellent base for exploring some of the UK’s finest coastal escapes. Just a short drive away, you’ll find yourself amidst the golden sands and Victorian charm of seaside resorts like Blackpool and Southport.
Blackpool Beach, with its iconic Blackpool Tower and lively promenade, offers a classic British seaside experience complete with donkey rides and fish and chips. Meanwhile, the tranquil sands of Formby Beach, surrounded by lush pine forests and dramatic sand dunes, provide a serene retreat for nature lovers and families alike.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Manchester:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: CitySuites Aparthotel
- ✨ 5-Star: Grade 2 Listed Apartment Southport Promenade
- 🏨 4-Star: 45 The Prom
- 🛏️ 3-Star: The Royal Liverpool
- 💸 Cheap: Orchid House
- 🏢 Apartment: Bayona Guest House
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: New Brighton House
- 🏩 For Couples: Woodside Lodge
For those seeking more adventure, the North West coast boasts a variety of stunning beaches perfect for every kind of beachgoer. Ainsdale Beach is ideal for kite enthusiasts, while Llandudno Beach offers a taste of Victorian seaside elegance with its historic pier and sweeping views of the Irish Sea.
Whether you’re strolling along the long sandy stretches of Crosby Beach or exploring the picturesque shores of Lytham St Annes, each destination promises unique experiences. From the National Trust nature reserves to the bustling seafronts dotted with beach huts, Manchester’s coastal neighbors are ready to welcome you on your next sunny day escape.
Best Beaches in Manchester: Quick Overview
- 🏖️ Perfect for Victorian seaside charm: Blackpool Beach
- 🌊 Coastal walks and sand dunes: Formby Beach
- 🍽️ Dining and promenade strolls: Lytham St Annes Beach
- 🚶♂️ Quiet, artistic shoreline: Crosby Beach
- 🐕 Dog-friendly sands: Ainsdale Beach
- 🏊♀️ Water sports and activities: Southport Beach
- 🌅 Scenic sunset views: New Brighton Beach
- 🏞️ Nature reserve exploration: Thurstaston Beach
1. 🏖️ Blackpool Beach – Victorian Seaside Grandeur
Natural Setting: Blackpool Beach stretches magnificently for seven miles along the Irish Sea coastline, creating one of Britain’s most iconic seafronts. The beach features a stunning Victorian architectural backdrop, anchored by three historic piers – North Pier (1863), Central Pier (1868), and South Pier (1893), with the majestic 518-foot Blackpool Tower (1894) standing sentinel over the golden sands.
Beach Features: The beach presents a vast expanse of flat, golden sand that becomes even more impressive at low tide. The famous Golden Mile, actually spanning 1.6 miles, runs between the North and South piers, creating a vibrant entertainment corridor filled with traditional seaside attractions. The beach cleverly divides into distinct sections for different activities, maintaining its Victorian charm while accommodating modern beachgoers.
Activities: The beach offers traditional seaside entertainment, including beloved donkey rides where each animal has its own name badge and scheduled holidays. RNLI lifeguard service operates during peak season, ensuring safe swimming areas, while designated zones accommodate beach sports like volleyball and football.
Amenities: The promenade features quintessential British seaside treats, from fish and chips shops to ice cream parlors. Traditional stalls selling cockles and whelks maintain the authentic Victorian atmosphere, while modern facilities include public toilets, shower facilities, and first aid stations at regular intervals.
Evening Experience: As dusk approaches, Blackpool Beach transforms with its famous Illuminations, a dazzling six-mile light show featuring over one million bulbs that has been enchanting visitors since 1879. The spectacular sunset views over the Irish Sea create a magical backdrop for this iconic display, making it one of Britain’s most celebrated evening beach experiences.
Best Hotels Near Blackpool Beach
- CitySuites Aparthotel: Luxurious aparthotel offering spacious rooms and suites equipped with flat-screen TVs and marble bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a fitness center, a hot tub, and a restaurant with delicious breakfast options.
- Motel One Manchester-Royal Exchange: Modern hotel located in the heart of Manchester, featuring stylish rooms with comfortable furnishings. The hotel offers a continental breakfast and is just a short walk from major attractions and transport links.
- Motel One Manchester-Piccadilly: Conveniently situated near Piccadilly Station, this hotel features contemporary design and cozy accommodations. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast and easy access to the vibrant city center, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
2. 🌊 Formby Beach – Natural Wonder and Wildlife Haven
Natural Setting: Formby Beach combines pristine dunes and lush pine forests along the Merseyside coastline. This hidden gem is part of one of Britain’s largest undeveloped dune systems, creating a unique landscape where nature thrives undisturbed.
Beach Features: The beach presents expansive sandy shorelines with gentle slopes, backed by extensive sand dunes that give it a distinctly rural feel. The area is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, protecting its unique ecology and prehistoric heritage. At low tide, the beach reveals ancient mud layers containing human and animal footprints dating back 5,000-7,000 years.
Activities: The soft, golden sand provides perfect conditions for swimming and paddling, with RNLI lifeguards patrolling during summer months. The surrounding pine woods house rare red squirrels, making wildlife spotting a popular activity, while the extensive dune system offers excellent opportunities for nature walks.
Amenities: Managed by the National Trust, the beach maintains essential facilities while preserving its natural character. Parking is available and free during quiet times, with chargeable options during busy periods. The area includes toilet facilities and is accessible via well-maintained pathways.
Evening Experience: The beach offers breathtaking sunset views over the Irish Sea, with clear days providing spectacular vistas of the Cumbrian hills and Snowdonia. The dunes create perfect vantage points for watching the sun sink into the horizon, while the peaceful evening atmosphere allows visitors to connect with the area’s ancient history.
Best Hotels Near Formby Beach
- Grade 2 Listed Apartment Southport Promenade: Located on Southport Promenade, this Grade 2 listed apartment combines historic charm with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy a unique stay with beautiful views of the promenade and easy access to local attractions.
- Tea in Liverpool Tours English Accommodation: A cozy guesthouse in Liverpool offering comfortable rooms and personalized tours. This accommodation provides a homely atmosphere and is perfect for exploring the city’s cultural landmarks.
- Woodlands Guest House Liverpool: Situated in a quiet area of Liverpool, this guesthouse offers spacious rooms and a peaceful environment. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing stay while being within easy reach of the city center.
3. 🏖️ Lytham St Annes Beach – Refined Coastal Elegance
Natural Setting: Located between the Ribble Estuary’s mud flats and Blackpool’s bright lights, Lytham St Annes offers a more sophisticated seaside experience. The beach presents a vast expanse of golden sand perfect for traditional beach activities.
Beach Features: The beach features a historic pier dating back to 1885, measuring approximately 600 feet in length. The area includes attractive gardens, a boating lake, and Lytham’s iconic green windmill, all contributing to its picturesque charm.
Activities: While swimming isn’t recommended near the estuary, the beach is perfect for sandcastle building, paddling, and family activities. The area is also popular for kite surfing and windsurfing, with designated areas for these sports.
Amenities: The beach offers comprehensive facilities including cafes, restaurants, toilets, and first aid points. Beach huts are available for hire, and the promenade provides excellent walking opportunities with stunning views.
Evening Experience: The beach provides captivating coastal views, especially at sunset. Visitors can enjoy evening walks along the promenade, with vibrant sunsets over the estuary creating a relaxing and picturesque atmosphere.
Best Hotels Near Lytham St Annes Beach
- The White House: Located just 300 meters from the beach in Lytham St Annes, this property offers a peaceful stay with easy access to the promenade. Guests can enjoy a traditional English breakfast and explore the nearby attractions, just 2.1 km from the city center.
- 45 The Prom: A beachfront property offering stunning views of the sea and promenade in Lytham St Annes. Ideal for those looking to relax by the beach, with restaurants and shops just a short walk away.
- Offshore - The Inn Collection Group: Situated on South Promenade, this hotel provides direct beach access and features an on-site restaurant. Guests can enjoy traditional English breakfasts and are just 200 meters from the nearest beach, perfect for a relaxing coastal getaway.
4. 🚶♂️ Crosby Beach – Quiet, Artistic Shoreline
Natural Setting: Crosby Beach is renowned for its unique landscape that features the striking installation of Antony Gormley’s “Another Place,” which consists of 100 cast-iron figures spread out across the shore. The beach is located near the River Mersey and offers stunning views of Liverpool’s skyline.
Beach Features: The beach has a vast expanse of flat sandy areas ideal for walking and exploring. It is backed by gentle sand dunes and offers wide open spaces for various activities. The beach is also characterized by its tidal nature, exposing long stretches of sand at low tide.
Activities: As a non-bathing beach, Crosby is perfect for long walks, beachcombing, and photography enthusiasts looking to capture the unique art installation. The lifeguard presence ensures safety during outdoor activities, making it a great spot for families and individual visitors alike.
Amenities: The beach is equipped with accessible pathways, and public toilets are available. Nearby cafes and facilities serve refreshments, making it convenient for a relaxing day out. Several picnic areas are also situated on the promenade for visitors.
Evening Experience: Crosby Beach offers exceptional sunset views, especially when the sun sets over the Liverpool skyline. The combination of art, sand, and open skies creates a peaceful atmosphere perfect for evening strolls, while the iron figures seem to resonate beautifully against the twilight.
Best Hotels Near Crosby Beach
- The Royal Liverpool: Located in the heart of Liverpool, this hotel offers easy access to the city’s top attractions, including the iconic Royal Albert Dock. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving traditional British cuisine.
- Lovely 2 Bedroom Apartment near Crosby Beach: A modern two-bedroom apartment located just a short walk from Crosby Beach. Perfect for families or small groups, it offers a fully equipped kitchen and easy access to local shops and restaurants.
- Beech Cottage Merseyside: A charming cottage located in Merseyside, offering a peaceful retreat with a garden and outdoor seating area. Ideal for those looking to relax while still being within a short drive of Liverpool’s city center and nearby beaches.
5. 🐕 Ainsdale Beach – Dog-Friendly Sands
Natural Setting: Ainsdale Beach is located on the Sefton Coast of Merseyside, known for its expansive sandy shore that stretches for miles along the Irish Sea. This beautiful beach is part of the Ainsdale and Birkdale Sandhills Local Nature Reserve, featuring impressive sand dunes that provide a stunning natural backdrop.
Beach Features: The beach is renowned for being dog-friendly, allowing dogs all year round. This makes it a popular spot for pet owners who appreciate the spacious sandy shores and dunes that create an ideal playground for dogs to run and play freely.
Activities: Ainsdale Beach offers various activities including beachcombing, picnicking, and sandcastle building. The large open spaces accommodate dog walkers and families alike, ensuring a leisurely experience for all visitors. The natural beauty encourages exploration and relaxation among nature.
Amenities: Facilities include nearby cafes and eateries that cater to visitors’ needs. Public toilets are available along with designated areas for BBQs and picnics. Ample parking is provided close to the beach to accommodate guests throughout the year.
Evening Experience: In the evening, Ainsdale Beach provides a serene environment for sunset strolls along the shore. The beautiful colors of sunset reflected on the water create a picturesque ending to a day at the beach, making it an ideal spot for quiet reflection or romantic walks.
Best Hotels Near Ainsdale Beach
- Orchid House: Located just 550 meters from the beach in Southport, this cozy house offers a quiet retreat with easy access to local attractions. Guests can enjoy nearby activities like hiking, golf, and mini-golf, making it ideal for couples or small groups.
- N'ista Boutique Rooms Birkdale Southport: A stylish boutique hotel located in Birkdale, Southport, offering modern rooms with a unique design. Perfect for travelers looking for a chic stay close to the beach and local restaurants.
- Apartment in Birkdale - 2 Bedrooms: A spacious two-bedroom apartment in Birkdale, ideal for families or small groups. The apartment is fully equipped with modern amenities and is located just a short walk from the beach and local shops.
6. 🏊♀️ Southport Beach – Water Sports and Activities Hub
Natural Setting: Southport Beach is located along the coast of Merseyside adjacent to Southport town center. This vibrant beach features a long stretch of golden sand backed by a lively promenade with stunning views across Marine Lake.
Beach Features: The beach is characterized by its wide sandy areas that are perfect for sunbathing and playing games like frisbee or football. It features extensive tidal flats that emerge at low tide, creating vast expanses of sand ideal for exploration and family fun.
Activities: Southport Beach serves as a hub for water sports activities such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and sailing on Marine Lake. Families can enjoy traditional beach games while various events throughout summer attract visitors from near and far.
Amenities: The promenade is lined with cafes, restaurants, shops offering refreshments and local delicacies. Public toilets are available along with changing facilities to accommodate beachgoers comfortably. There are also designated picnic areas perfect for gatherings.
Evening Experience: As evening falls, Southport Beach offers stunning sunset views over Marine Lake. Vibrant colors reflecting off the water create a picturesque setting for evening strolls along the promenade where visitors can enjoy live music or outdoor entertainment during summer months.
Best Hotels Near Southport Beach
- Bayona Guest House: A cozy guesthouse located in Southport, just 900 meters from the beach and 500 meters from the city center. Guests can enjoy a traditional English breakfast and nearby attractions such as golf courses and the Southport Pier.
- Beach Retreat: A beachfront property in Lytham St Annes, offering stunning sea views and just 150 meters from the beach. The retreat features two bedrooms and is perfect for families or groups of up to six guests.
- Tiny Beach House: A charming, compact beach house located in Lancashire, ideal for couples or small groups looking for a peaceful seaside escape. The property is just a short walk from the beach, offering a cozy and intimate stay.
7. 🌅 New Brighton Beach – Scenic Sunset Views
Natural Setting: New Brighton Beach is situated on the Wirral Peninsula along the Mersey Estuary, offering breathtaking views of Liverpool’s skyline across the water. This expansive sandy beach is framed by lush green spaces and historical landmarks like New Brighton Lighthouse.
Beach Features: The beach features wide stretches of golden sand that are perfect for sunbathing and engaging in various seaside activities such as building sandcastles or playing games with family. It has a lively atmosphere with plenty of space for everyone to enjoy their time outdoors.
Activities: New Brighton Beach is popular for recreational activities including swimming (in designated areas), beach volleyball, kite flying, and enjoying picnics on sunny days. Nearby Marine Lake offers opportunities for boating and fishing as well.
Amenities: Numerous cafes, restaurants, ice cream parlors line the area catering to visitors’ needs throughout their stay at New Brighton Beach. Public toilets are conveniently located alongside changing facilities while amusement arcades provide additional entertainment options.
Evening Experience: New Brighton Beach is particularly known for its spectacular sunsets over Mersey Estuary. As day turns into night, visitors can enjoy stunning views as vibrant colors fill the sky creating an enchanting atmosphere perfect for evening walks along this scenic coastline.
Best Hotels Near New Brighton Beach
- New Brighton House: A cozy house located in Wallasey, just 2 km from the beach. Ideal for families or small groups, it offers modern amenities and easy access to local attractions like New Brighton Pier and promenade.
- Stunning 2 Bedroom Apartment in Wallasey: A spacious two-bedroom apartment located just 950 meters from the center of Wallasey. Perfect for families, it offers beach access and comfortable accommodations for up to 4 guests.
- A Quirky 2 Bedroom Apartment - 5 Mins from the Sea: This unique two-bedroom apartment in Wallasey is just a short walk from the beach. With modern decor and space for up to 8 guests, it’s ideal for larger families or groups looking to enjoy seaside activities like cycling, fishing, and mini-golf.
8. 🏞️ Thurstaston Beach – Nature Reserve Exploration
Natural Setting: Thurstaston Beach lies within Wirral Country Park along the Dee Estuary providing stunning views of both land and sea. This area features diverse habitats including salt marshes, mudflats, and sandy beaches surrounded by lush greenery that supports various wildlife species.
Beach Features: The beach consists of a mix of sand and shingle areas providing unique landscapes ideal for exploration. It’s part of a nature reserve that supports diverse wildlife making it an excellent spot for nature lovers seeking tranquility away from urban life.
Activities: Visitors can enjoy coastal walks along well-maintained paths leading to scenic viewpoints overlooking estuarine landscapes filled with birdlife during migration seasons. Birdwatching opportunities abound due to diverse species inhabiting this region throughout different times of year.
Amenities: Thurstaston Beach has basic facilities including public toilets available nearby as well as parking options close by ensuring convenience during visits here while maintaining focus on preserving natural beauty around it.
Evening Experience: As evening approaches Thurstaston Beach provides tranquil settings perfect watching sunsets over Dee Estuary where colorful skies reflect off calm waters creating picturesque scenes enjoyed by those seeking peace amidst nature’s splendor after long days filled exploration adventures!
Best Hotels Near Thurstaston Beach
- Woodside Lodge: Located in Thurstaston, this lodge offers a peaceful retreat just 1.8 km from the town center. Guests can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and windsurfing, making it perfect for nature lovers.
- Marine Lake Apartment: A modern two-bedroom apartment in West Kirby, just 550 meters from the town center and close to the beach. Ideal for families or small groups, it offers easy access to windsurfing and golfing nearby.
- Manor Garden Lodge: A charming lodge located in Wirral, 4 km from the town center. This property features comfortable double rooms and is perfect for guests looking for a quiet stay with access to local pubs and scenic walking routes.
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top beaches near Manchester to visit?
The top beaches near Manchester to visit include Blackpool Beach, Lytham St Annes Beach, Ainsdale Beach, and West Kirby Beach. Each beach offers unique experiences, from the lively atmosphere of Blackpool to the tranquil beauty of Ainsdale, making them perfect for day trips.
How can I reach beautiful beaches near Manchester?
You can reach beautiful beaches near Manchester by train. For example, you can take a train from Manchester to Blackpool, which takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Lytham St Annes Beach is also accessible by train with a quick change at Preston.
What is the nearest beach to Manchester?
The nearest beach to Manchester is likely Ainsdale Beach, located on the Sefton Coast. It’s a sandy beach that is great for families and dog walkers alike. You can reach it by taking a train to Southport and then a short bus ride or taxi.
Are there any sandy beaches near Manchester that are worth a visit?
Yes, there are several sandy beaches near Manchester worth a visit! Ainsdale Beach and Formby Beach both feature beautiful sandy shores and are ideal for sunbathing and beach activities. Formby Beach also boasts stunning sand dunes and nature trails.
What activities can I enjoy at Rhyl Beach near Manchester?
Rhyl Beach offers a variety of activities including swimming, sunbathing, and beach games. The beach also features a beautiful promenade perfect for walking or cycling. Additionally, you can explore nearby attractions like amusement parks and arcades.
Is West Kirby Beach suitable for families?
Yes, West Kirby Beach is particularly family-friendly with its wide sandy beach and shallow waters, making it safe for children to play. The beach also has facilities such as cafes and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable day out for families.
How long does it take to reach Meols Beach from Manchester?
To reach Meols Beach from Manchester, you can take a train to Hoylake, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. From Hoylake station, it’s just a short walk to the beach where you can enjoy the scenic views of the Dee Estuary.
What makes Formby Point a unique beach destination?
Formby Point is unique due to its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The beach is part of a National England Nature Reserve featuring sandy cliffs and ancient pine woodlands. Visitors can enjoy walking trails while spotting wildlife like red squirrels and various bird species.
Are there any clean beaches near Wallasey that I should visit?
Yes! Wallasey has several clean beaches worth visiting, including New Brighton Beach. This beach is known for its beautiful promenade and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot for swimming and enjoying seaside activities while taking in views of Liverpool’s skyline.
What should I bring when visiting the best sandy beaches near Manchester?
When visiting the best sandy beaches near Manchester, be sure to bring essentials such as sunscreen, water, a beach towel, hats for sun protection, and suitable footwear for walking on sand. If you’re heading to more secluded spots like Ainsdale or Formby Point, consider packing snacks and an umbrella since facilities may be limited.
How does Manchester serve as a great base for exploring nearby beaches?
Manchester is a great place to stay because it offers easy access to some of the best beaches in the UK. With frequent train services connecting the city to popular coastal destinations like Blackpool and Southport, visitors can enjoy day trips without hassle while experiencing urban life in the city itself.
