Sefton Coastal Footpath
A 21-mile long-distance path in the Merseyside region. Highlights include Crosby, Formby, Ainsdale National Nature Reserve, and Birkdale, featuring varied terrain such as sandy beaches, coastal marshes, pine woodlands, and tidal estuaries. With map, statistics, and GPX route file.
Statistics and Files
Start: Waterloo Station, Merseyside
Grid Ref: SJ 321 981
Distance: 21 miles (34 km)
Grid Ref: SJ 321 981
Distance: 21 miles (34 km)
Climbing: 70 metres
Time: 8–10 hours
Duration: 1–2 days
Time: 8–10 hours
Duration: 1–2 days
Ordnance Survey Explorer Maps (1:25,000):
266 Wirral and Chester
275 Liverpool, St Helens, Widnes and Runcorn
285 Southport, Chorley, Wigan, Formby and Ormskirk
Summary
The Sefton Coastal Footpath extends from Crosby on the northern outskirts of Liverpool through Sefton, Formby, Ainsdale National Nature Reserve, Ainsdale and Birkdale Local Nature Reserve, and Birkdale to Southport. Throughout the walk, there is a rich variety of landscapes and wildlife, with sandy beaches, coastal marshes, pine woodlands, heathland, and tidal estuaries to enjoy.
The walk also provides expansive views across the Irish Sea to North Wales, Snowdonia, and the Lake District.