5 Best Beaches You Need To Visit Near Liverpool

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If you are planning on staying in the United Kingdom this Summer then do not fear as you can still have all the fun you would abroad especially if the weather is kind to you. I think when we think of holidays with the nicest beach and blue waters we always assume we have to get there by travelling on a plane. That's not true, the UK has lots of holiday choices to meet all your needs including some of the best beaches with golden sand, water sports, iconic attractions, and even horse riding. Some of these beaches can be found as close as our own Liverpool beaches and on the Wirral Peninsula which is less than an hour away from Liverpool. 

Blundellsands Beach / Crosby Beach

Hall Road, Blundellsands, Liverpool L23 8SY

Crosby beach is ideal for those who like to enjoy the feel of sand between their toes and breathe in the sea air. Located just 6 miles from Liverpool City Centre, Crosby beach is a great place for all ages. 

The beach itself is the only beach which boasts the iconic sculptures, The Iron Men. Another Place by Antony Gormley. A must see attraction for art lovers. The Iron Men statues are dotted around the beach looking out over the River Mersey. It can also provide you beautiful views of the Albert Docks in the distance. 

Crosby also has a marine lake with clean water perfect and on sunny days you can head over to the newly revamped Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre to join in with their water activities.  There is a children's play area which has play structures for both younger and older children. There is also lots of open grass space which is ideal if you want to take along a football, games or just enjoy a picnic. 

The coastal walk also offers you the chance to sit back and relax as drinks and snacks are available from pop up food and drink stalls and there are also toilets available here too.

It's a perfect place to maybe meet some of your footballing heroes as some have made Crosby their permanent home.

The beach can be reached by car and public transport with a car park close by and Waterloo train station just a 10 minute short walk away.  

Formby Beach

Formby, Liverpool L37 1YD

The Sefton Coastal path is a popular destination for long seaside walks which lead over the high dunes and low dunes and on to Formby beach. The huge stretch of sand is extremely popular all year round with plenty of space to enjoy a beach day/ Just bring along your deck chairs, parasols and find a great spot for a picnic. Whether you fancy a relaxing hour away from the hustle and bustle, a paddle in the sea or a day of beach fun with the kids Formby beach is a great choice. 

The beach can also be accessed via the National Trust, Formby. Available to both members and non members you can access woodland walks, try to spot red squirrels, picnic areas and public toilets. Please note a car parking fee is applicable to non members. 

Freshfield train station is 1.2 miles away and a 20 minutes walk.

Southport Beach

Southport, PR8 1SB

Southport beach is hard to beat. The seaside resort has everything you need to spend a full day out. The beach itself is huge so you will always find a space to put up you deckchair and set yourself up for the day. It's just a short drive from the  town centre and cars are usually allowed on the beach too so if you don't fancy walking too far you can also drive to find a lovely spot.

Southport Pier is a popular tourist destination. The pier extends out across the beach giving spectacular views of the Irish sea and on Summer days you can usually spot the famous Blackpool Tower and one of the UK's famous theme parks, Blackpool Pleasure Beach. The pier is Britains longest pier which you can walk along and visit the ice cream parlour and enjoy arcade games at the end. You can also take the tram for those who don't fancy the walk. 

Other highlights are a small theme park, marina lake, children's adventure play area close by and lots of high street shops. It really is the perfect place to enjoy a day trip.

Southport beach can be reached by car or is a 20 minute walk from Southport train station.

New Brighton Beach

Ian Fraser Walk, New Brighton, Wallasey CH45 2NW

The promenade sits beside approx 3 miles of sand overlooking the Liverpool port. New Brighton beach is very popular amongst the locals on warmer days and after the resorts £60 million makeover it is attracting lots of tourists now too. 

You will also find some landmarks dotted around the beach including the Perch Rock Lighthouse and The Black Pearl pirate ship Art Installation

The promenade also boasts hotels, cinema, restaurants, a marina lake, shops and an amusement arcade. 

New Brighton beach can be reached by car with lots of car parking options available or by train to New Brighton Train Station. The beach is just a 10 minute walk from the station.

Lifeguards patrol the sandy beaches as at high tide access to Perch Rock Fort can be cut off by the sea. 

West Kirby Beach

South Parade, West Kirby, Merseyside, CH48 0QG

West Kirby Beach may only be small at just 300 metres long but it is very popular during the Summer months as it sits just between 1km of sand dunes and a further 2km of sand flats which can be seen when at low tide. These head towards Hoylake beach, Meols Beach and Wallasey Beach and it's impressive West Kirby Marine lake. 

Paddling and watersports is also a popular choice here as the water is usually clean and safe. 

Hilbre Island Local Nature Reserve is located a km off shore and accessible on foot at low tide. It will give you panoramic views of the North Wales hills in the distance. 

West Kirby Beach can be reached by car with both free and payable parking available within the area and West Kirby train station is just a 5 minute walk away. 

These are five our our favourites beaches which are within easy reach if you are visiting Liverpool or close by. Some of the beaches hold blue flag status and a coastal award for their safe waters. They really are the best way to spend family days and also if you have time you can also enjoy the surrounding area. including the very popular tourist destination, Liverpool. 

Have you visited a beach local to Liverpool? Is there a beach that I haven't mentioned which you enjoy going too? If so we would love to hear about it. I am always on the look out for new places to enjoy with the family. 

If you are looking for more days out ideas you can visit our Out and About. We try to cover as much of the UK as possible.

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Michelle

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Light The Night - The Snowman and The Snowdog Brick Model Trail

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Disclosure - We were invited to complete the The Snowman and The Snowdog Brick Model Trail for the purpose of this post. We have been compensated for our time. 

Light The Night - The Snowman and The Snowdog Brick Model Trail has arrived in Blackburn. The trail includes 16 illuminated brick models which are located in and around Blackburn's town centre and is the perfect day out for fans of the beloved animated classic The Snowman. 

What To Expect At The Light The Night - The Snowman and Snowdog Brick Trail, The Mall, Blackburn BB1 5AF

If you want to take part in The Snowman and The Snowdog Brick Trail then all you need to do is head to The Mall Ask Me Point to pick up a trail map and quiz. From here you can then follow the trail to find all 16 models. If you would prefer to be more interactive, you can download the free experience Blackburn app to join in with the QR code trail. Both trails will give you the chance to win a prize too. 

If you would like an sneak peak of where you can expect to see the illuminated brick models here are some confirmed locations 

Morrisons Instore Opticians

Mortimers Estate Agents

Rhode Island Coffee, The Mall

6G/The Wifi Centre

Grays Outfitters

Blue Inc

The Works

Althams

Jack & Jones

Edmondsons

Ainsworth Jewellers

Hobkirks Sewing Machines

Blackburn Central Library

M&S

Next

Blackburn Market

The trail includes 4 larger models including a 1.8m tall Snowman which used 53,851 bricks!

This is the third brick model trail we have done over the past few years. First we did a Paw Patrol trail and then We did Brickosaurs brick trail and in our opinion they keep getting bigger and better. The Snowman and The Snowdog brick trail perfect for this time of year and will really get you in the Christmas mood and is free to do.

The Light The Night - The Snowman and The Snowdog trail will illuminate from the 27th November to the 5th January. We loved the trail and would definitely recommend.

If you do the trail we would love to se your photos. Make sure you tag us on socials @playdaysrunways and use the #brickburn

I am always so grateful for any support I receive on my blog and social channels. If you did find this post useful there are a few ways that you could say thanks and support Playdays and Runways.

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Michelle

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Pennington Flash, Leigh

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A few friends have told us about visiting Pennington Flash recently so during the Summer holidays we decided to put on our walking shoes and head to the flash for an afternoon walk. As we had never visited before and couldn't really find much online we didn't know what to expect, other than the flash is a very large body of water. 

What To Expect At Pennington Flash, Leigh WN7 3PA

When looking at the map of the flash both online and upon arrival it's quite difficult to see which path leads where so we started out at the car park and took it from there.  There are maps dotted around the car park to show the different paths so we took a photo of the map to help us navigate . 

The car park is chargeable at £1.50 per day. There were plenty of spaces even though some of the car park was taken up by travellers.

When looking at the flash we headed right towards a toilet block which was closed. These were the only toilets on site which made it a little tricky as we were expecting to be at Pennington Flash for at least a few hours. Someone did tell me that there is a Morrisons about a 15 minute walk away if the toilets are closed on your visit. 

Just behind the toilets is a children's playground. It had the usual play equipment, swings, see-saws, climbing frame. 

We then followed a path which led us alongside the flash, in towards the woods and up alongside the Liverpool Leeds canal. 

There were hideouts alongside the paths which are great for bird watchers and were very popular. Some of the seats where marked as belonging to people, which I assume is just their way of saying they spend a lot of time here watching the wildlife over the year. 

After we had walked alongside the Liverpool Leeds canal we had to find our way back on the path which was a little tricky and very steep so we did double back. Luckily we were able to watch a canal boat going past, the man on board looked like he was enjoying himself waving to the kids as he went past.  There is a large bridge which takes you over the canal just here and its a great place for taking photos and looking out onto the canal. 

We then joined the path but somewhere on that path we should have turned and followed a path back to the car park which is approx a 1-2 mile walk if we wanted a short walk that wouldn't have covered the entire flash. 

We continued on a path which took is right around the flash. The path was mostly defined however it was wet and muddy in places so we did have to go in to the bushes a few times and climb over a fence. We managed to get really close to the waters edge at times too which meant we could stop to throw stones and have a little break watching the birds and swans.  

We then ended up on a main road but managed to get back in to the country park again on clear paths that took us through some private land with public footpaths through. There are signs to let you know where you need to go and which areas are private.

This walk wasn't what we expected and took us around 3 hours and was approx 7-8km. However it was enjoyable and there was plenty to see along the way including the boats on the flash from the nearby sailing club. 

Walking shoes or boots are definitely essential as even though there are defined paths they are rocky and proper walking boats will protect your ankles. 

There is an ice cream man at the car park until close each day. Luckily we had £10 cash with us as the ice cream man wasn't taking cards when we visited. 

We really enjoyed our walk around Pennington Flash and although we only expected to walk 1-2 miles it was a nice walk and was easy on the legs for most of it. The hideouts are great if you want to spot birds and the walk along the canal was really calm and peaceful. 

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- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle

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Flip Out Trampoline Park, Liverpool

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Disclosure - We were gifted tickets for the purpose of this post. All thoughts, opinions and photographs are our own. 

We have been trying to keep busy this Summer, getting out and about so the boys don't just sit on their screens all day. As we can't rely on the British weather we have had to plan a few outdoor days out and also some indoors. Luckily we have quite a large selection of indoor play centres in the North West and we recently visited Flip Out, Liverpool.

What To Expect At Flip Out, Liverpool L9 5AT

Flip Out, Liverpool is not just a trampoline park, it is so much more. Flip Out is home to a 65ft donut slide, total wipeout, cyber towers, drop slide, stunt boxes, a huge interconnected trampoline arena and lots more.

The arena is split in to different sections. There are steps down away from the trampolines which lead you in to an area that has a play structure, donut slide, and climbing frame. It's a great addition to the trampolines and the boys spent a lot of time there, climbing and sliding. 

The simple trampolines are a great way to get you used to bouncing and work out where everything is. There are also some high power trampolines that allow you to launch yourself into a foam fit, flipping as you go if you wish.

The 65ft tube slide, which is very similar to an ice slide is lots of fun. You sit in a rubber ring and slide to the bottom. I haven't seen one of these anywhere other than in ice adventure areas, and it was just as much fun.

The stunt area has higher powered trampolines all around a well padded Lamborghini car that can be jumped on, or over.  This was a really good area to get some height into your bouncing. This area has a minimum height restriction of 1.2m.

There was also an assault course type area, again with minimum height requirement, this was similar to a play area structure with climbing, rolling, and a decent size slide at the end which was very quick.

You are guaranteed lots of laughs on the total wipe out zone. This is an activity where you stand on a spot and have to either jump over or duck under a moving bar. 

Anything Else?

Each standard jump session is 90 minutes which we felt was just the right amount of time. We were able to explore the large arena and enjoyed all the features inside. A 90 minute session costs £15.

You can enjoy some toddler time at Flip Out during off peak times. Monday 1pm then Tuesday to Friday at 10am, 11:30am and 1pm. Costs for the Toddler and Parent session is £12 with one adult free (term time only).

A family bounce is available which saves you money. Each family ticket is for 4 (must include one adult over 18) and costs just £50 anytime on any day.

For those who would like to enjoy a reduced sensory environment with dimmed lights and reduced noise you can enjoy an additional needs session. The sessions run on a Tuesday 5:30-7pm and Sunday 10am-11:30am. Price is £12 and carers go free. We found it very loud and busy when we visited so I would highly recommend these sessions to those who may be overwhelmed.

An after dark session brings a party atmosphere to the arena with light shows and super sound systems. After Dark runs for 2 hours every Friday and Saturday at 6pm. Cost is £16 or you can upgrade to a Flip Feast which includes a 9" pizza and drink for £20.

If you are thinking of a party there are some dedicated party rooms with plenty of space throughout and even free wifi for the parents. We didn't try the cafe although it looked to serve a good selection of food and drinks and there was plenty of seating around too.

It is recommended you book online to guarantee entry. 

Arrive at the venue 30 minutes before your bounce time and sign your waivers before you arrive to save time. 

Flip Out socks can be purchased from reception for £3 per pair. 

There are plenty of parking spaces however near the session times it was very busy to park.

We all really enjoyed our visit. The separate areas, slides and climbing frame really give the trampoline park that extra something. 

I am always so grateful for any support I receive on my blog and social channels. If you did find this post useful there are a few ways that you could say thanks and support Playdays and Runways.

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Michelle

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Afternoon Tea On Board The Floating Grace

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John and I are always looking for places to go for date days and nights. Whilst looking online for something to do, John recently came across The Floating Grace. The Floating Grace is Liverpool's only floating restaurant and bar. 

What To Expect On Board The Floating Grace, Salthouse Quay, Liverpool L3 4AE

The Floating Grace is docked in the Salthouse Quay within The Albert Dock. There are a choice of cruises available which will take you on a historical tour of the Albert Dock taking in beautiful views of 8 of Liverpool's Docks. 

We bought an afternoon cruise and boarded the boat just before 2pm. The seating plans were already arranged and we were shown to our table for two. There were tables of two, four and six on our cruise and it was at full capacity. 

Once seated we chatted amongst ourselves, looking at the views whilst the staff came and took our drinks order. There is a bar on board, no draught beers or soft drinks but plenty of choice of bottled beers, wines, Prosecco and soft drinks. A drinks menu is on your table upon arrival for you to glance over. If you don't want to order drinks that is absolutely fine as you will be served tea or coffee with your afternoon tea. 

The captain introduced himself shortly before setting sail at 2:30pm. He did a safety chat letting the passengers know where to find life vests and emergency exit. He was able to give us lots of information about the different docks we sailed in and out of and so much history. It was quite obvious that he loved the docks and his passion really came across. 

Afternoon tea was served shortly after the cruise began. The three tiered afternoon tea had ham and tomato, tuna and mayonnaise, cheese and onion and egg mayonnaise sandwiches. Two scones with clotted cream and jam, two small pieces of lemon drizzle cake, two small cupcakes, two coconut macaroons and two wafer biscuits. It was more than enough for two. 

Your tea and coffee is served to you in large mugs. You do not have your own teapot however we were asked if we wanted a top up of tea. 

The staff on board were very friendly and approachable. The lady serving us was the captains wife and the waiter seemed like a family friend. The cruise had a lovely feel to it and was very enjoyable. 

The captain spoke about the history all the way along the docks and it was so interesting to hear. Once we had reached the end of the docks and we could not go any further the captain switched off his mic and we sailed back to some music. 

We boarded at 2pm and we got back to the Salthouse Quay at just before 4pm. The price for the cruise is £20 per person. 

Anything Else?

The afternoon tea cruise runs Wednesday to Saturday

There is an evening dinner cruise which again runs Wednesday to Saturday. Enjoy a three course meal on board with a glass of bubbly on arrival. Boarding at 7pm, set sail at 7:30pm and return at 9pm. The price for the evening dinner cruise is £35.

You can also enjoy a Sunday lunch cruise on board The Floating Grace. The 2 hour cruise offers a 2 course lunch with a glass of bubbly on arrival. You can choose to board at 12pm or 3pm. The price for the Sunday lunch is £25 per person. 

If you have any allergies or specific dietary requirements you can let them know beforehand via email or in the comments when booking. 

We really enjoyed our cruise on The Floating Grace. It was a lovely relaxed atmosphere, great food and lots of historical information. We would definitely like to book another cruise to experience the Sunday Lunch or Evening Dinner.

To find out more about the cruises, menus and booking information visit The Floating Grace.

I am always so grateful for any support I receive on my blog and social channels. If you did find this post useful there are a few ways that you could say thanks and support Playdays and Runways.

Leave us a comment below and let us know what you thought. 

Like us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Buy Us A Virtual Coffee

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Michelle

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