Visit Formby Beach near Liverpool. Explore sand dunes, pine woods, and sea views — home to red squirrels, coastal walks, and one of England’s wildest beaches.

A Wild Escape on the Merseyside Coast

Craving open skies, sea air, and nature at its best? Formby Beach, managed by the National Trust, lies just north of Liverpool and offers miles of unspoiled coastline backed by towering dunes and whispering pine forests. It’s a haven for walkers, wildlife lovers, and families seeking space to breathe.

Golden Sands and Coastal Beauty

Formby’s vast, golden beach stretches for miles along the Sefton Coast. With views across the Irish Sea, it’s perfect for:

Long walks and beach runs on firm sand.

Family picnics in the dunes.

Beachcombing and fossil hunting after the tide retreats.

The beach is backed by one of the most impressive dune systems in England — constantly shifting and changing shape with the wind.

Red Squirrel Reserve

Just inland lies the famous Formby Pine Woods, home to one of Britain’s few remaining populations of native red squirrels. Follow the marked Red Squirrel Walk through the trees and you’ll often spot them darting between the branches.

The woodlands also provide habitat for natterjack toads, sand lizards, and hundreds of bird species.

Learn more about wildlife trails and conservation on the National Trust Formby page

Walking Trails and Outdoor Adventures

Formby is part of the Sefton Coastal Path, a 21-mile trail connecting Crosby, Hightown, and Southport. Popular routes include:

Formby Dune Trail (3 km) – A loop through the dunes with sea views.

Lifeboat Road Trail – Linking the beach and woodlands.

Victoria Road Woodland Walk – Best for spotting red squirrels.

The area is also ideal for dog walks, photography, and birdwatching — especially around the dunes and tidal pools.

Facilities and Accessibility

Formby Beach is managed by the National Trust, ensuring excellent facilities and environmental care:

Car parks at Victoria Road and Lifeboat Road.

Toilets and picnic areas near both entrances.

Marked paths and accessible routes through the dunes.

Dog-friendly areas all year round (with wildlife zones to avoid).

Why Visit Formby Beach?

Few places in England capture wild coastal beauty like Formby Beach. From red squirrels in pine forests to sweeping dunes and open sands, it’s a place where nature takes centre stage.

Breathe deeply, explore freely, and rediscover the wild coast of Formby.