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Wirral is famed for its beautiful coastline, lush countryside and lively towns. Packed with heritage, delicious food, and friendly people, there’s so much to explore and it’s no wonder Wirral is known as the Leisure Peninsula. 

From the great outdoors to outer space, there are lots of quirky things to do in Wirral. Ranging from the world-famous Mersey Ferries to the popular Floral Pavilion Theatre and Conference Centre, the wealth of things to do makes Wirral a fantastic place to live and an ideal destination for a fun day out or short break. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

Top things to do in The Wirral

Walking

‍Wirral’s rich and diverse landscape makes it perfect for outdoor activities and is highly popular with walkers from across the country. From coastal strolls with awe-inspiring views to countryside walks with miles of unspoilt green land, walking in Wirral is not to be missed.

• Irby & Thurstaston: A rewarding 3.5-mile walk with breathtaking views across Wales to help set your mind free of any stress of everyday life.

• Royden Park: This walk is perfect for those who love to explore different landscapes. Part of the trail goes through Royden Park where you’ll roam through a grand forest to lovely meadows and pass by one of Wirral’s hidden treasures, Hilbark House. The park is open from dawn till dusk all year round.

• West Kirby and Cardy Hill: A sandstone outcrop full of lush greenery with stunning views out of Liverpool Bay and the River Dee.

• Bidston Hill and River Fender: One of the highest points on the Wirral, Bidston Hill is full of history. This route will take you through the lovely area of Bidson, passing Bidson Windmill along the way, which was said to have been built back in 1596.

• The Wonders of Birkenhead: Birkenhead has some fascinating historical attractions and this walk visits ten of them. It’s the perfect way to get to know Birkenhead in one afternoon from Hamilton Square, including the former Town Hall; walk right to Birkenhead Priory, Woodside Ferry, the new U-Boat Story, the Tramway, Egerton Bridge, the Transport Museum, Pacific Road Arts Centre, the Mersey Tunnel Ventilation Shaft and then all through to Shore Road Pumping Station. This walk is best followed at weekends, bank holidays and local school holidays as several of the attractions have restricted opening times.

• River Birket, Leasowe Lighthouse & the Coast: This is a beautiful 5-mile stroll alongside the River Birkett before arriving back at the coast. Look for Leasowe Lighthouse along the way- this historic building was built in 1763.

• Brimstage & Thornton Hough: For South West Wirral walks, this is perfect! You will be thrilled with lush green landscapes and picturesque villages, making it the perfect place for families and adventure-seekers alike on a 3-mile binge.

• Parkgate & Gayton: This walk through Parkgate and Gayton boasts amazing views across the Dee Estuary to North Wales. The Estuary is home to several rare species of birds, making spring and summer a stunning time to walk this route.

• Heswall Dales & Fields: This walk shows off the diverse landscape of Wirral with coastal pathways, giving way to inland trails through stunning ancient woodland. You will even spot some waterfalls along the way!

• Storeton Village: This enchanting 3 miles woods walk is perfect a route for dogs and their owners.

• Eastham & Bromborough: A walk just over 5 miles that brings together two areas of natural beauty- Dibbinsdale Local Nature Reserve and Eastham Country Park. It’s definitely longer than the other walks above, but you can make a day out of it by having a picnic along the way!
  

If you like a challenge, then these are for you! For keen walkers looking for even longer walks, check out:

• Arrow Park to Parkgate Circular walk: Taking in many of the beautiful areas mentioned above, this 15-mile walk takes you to many places including Storeton, Brimstage, Thornton Hough, Arrow Park and many more.

• The Wirral Circular Trial: This 35-mile trail navigates the whole peninsula for the ultimate explorer in you! Tackle this signposted trail by bike or foot as you navigate through every corner of our peninsula.
  
  

Cycling

There are a few cycling routes famed for their scenic and varied routes that attract many to the beautiful peninsula. From leisurely coastal bike rides to slightly more challenging off-road adventures, there are options to choose from when it comes to cycling in Wirral.

• Northwest Cycle Route: If you are after a ride with stunning views that start and finish in the same place, then this is perfect for you! It starts and finishes at Wirral Country Park in Thurstaston and takes you along the beautiful Wirral Way. The complete route is 15 miles and predominantly traffic-free.

• Northeast Cycle Route: This route takes advantage of the coastal location. It starts and finishes at Seacombe Ferry Terminal, and is one of the best routes for cycling on Wirral because it takes you around the historic Seacombe and New Brighton coastline. Here, you can gaze over the historic Liverpool skyline on the way. The full route is nearly 11 miles long and will involve some cycling on busy roads.

• Southwest Cycle Route: Taking in some breathtaking views across the Gayton Sands, this circular route gives you the opportunity to enjoy some of the tranquil Wirral Way. You can even visit the historic seaside town of Parkgate along the way, stopping off for some famous ice cream or some fish and chips! With plenty of fresh air and great views, this route is a favourite among cyclists. It’s predominantly off-road, but it can get a bit bumpy in places.

• Southeast Cycle Route: This route offers a rich mix of coast, countryside and history, and is incredibly popular. Starting and finishing at the scenic Eastham Country Park, a stone’s throw from the banks of the Mersey Estuary with panoramic views, the ride also visits the exquisite village of Port Sunlight- a place steeped in history and ornate architecture. This one is definitely not to be missed!
  
  

Golf

‍Wirral has 12 private and municipal golf courses, which include the world-famous Links course, Royal Liverpool Golf Club in Hoylake that hosted the tremendously successful 2014 and 2023 Open Championship. Having said that, all the golf courses are suitable for golfers of all abilities so it doesn’t matter if you are a budding pro or looking for a sociable course to enjoy with friends.

• Eastham Lodge Golf Club: Situated in a picturesque area in Wirral, overlooking River Mersey, this gold course is rated as “outstanding” and in the top 100 in the UK. Parking facilities are available on-site and so is a cafeteria and a restaurant with special dietary provision.

• Royal Liverpool Golf Club: This golf course at Hoylake has staged major tournaments throughout its long history. It’s set on the shores of the River Dee with the Welsh hills in the distance.

• Caldy Golf Club: Caldy provides a unique blend of seaside and parkland golf. It’s situated on the estuary of the River Dee with breathtaking views of the North Wales mountains and a rural outlook to farmland and dales to the South.

• Arrowe Park Municipal Golf Club: This is set on some 400 acres of parkland and it includes a cafe and toilet facilities. On entering the club, you will be met by The Cherry Orchard Steakhouse Pub, which will provide all your refreshment requirements.

• Bidston Golf Club: Accessible, affordable and friendly, Bidson Club has superb greens and welcoming to all golfers.

• Viking Quest Adventure Golf: This is a fully themed course that offers optional levels of difficulty. It ensures that adults are equally as challenged as the little ones, creating an ideal location for family time, an evening out with friends, date nights, birthday parties and much more!

• Heswall Golf Club: A gently rolling parkland course that offers beautiful scenic views over the Dee estuary, the Clwyd Hills, Moel Famau, Point of Ayr and Hilbre Islands. It also offers a blissful silence and abundant wildlife on the Dee marshes- a protected and internationally recognised bird sanctuary.

• Wallasey Golf Club: It’s situated on the Wirral Peninsula overlooking Liverpool Bay and the Irish Sea, leaving it open to elements and in particular, the wind.

• Prenton Golf Club: Prenton is located in Birkenhead and it provides a challenging parkland course that welcomes all visitors.

• Warren Municipal Golf Club: Situated adjacent to the River Mersey and the Irish Sea, Warren is a short (9-hole) undulating, sandy links course with a first-class green open all year round.

• Bromborough Golf Club: Located in the mature part of the Leverhulme Estate at the heart of the Wirra Peninsula, Bromborough Golf Club is renowned as a hidden gem golf course, notable for its many species of trees, copes and ponds that all add to its spectacular beauty.

• Leasowe Golf Club: A beautiful link course situated on the shoreline of the north coast of Wirral. It’s just a mile from junction one of M53, making it easily accessible from all parts of the region. What’s more, the modern clubhouse offers a venue where an excellent range of food and refreshments can be enjoyed, along with superb panoramic views extending from the mountains of North Wales and across Liverpool Bay towards the Lake District.

• Wirral Golf Club: A fantastic heathland course that provides an excellent opportunity for players of all ages and from all backgrounds.
  
  

Water sports

If you are into water sports, then you are in for a treat in Wirral whether you are new to it or a seasoned expert. Thanks to being located on a peninsula, Wirral is surrounded by water on three sides, giving plenty of opportunity if you prefer to go on open water, be it on a jet ski or a pleasure craft.

• West Kirby Marine Lake: This is a man-made saltwater lake that is set on the very tip of the peninsula with stunning views of the Welsh Hills and the Dee Estuary. It’s 52 acres large, 5 feet deep and totally enclosed. It’s an exceptionally safe facility, so it’s no wonder it’s a top tourist destination.

• Wirral Watersports Centre: Also at the tip of the peninsula like West Kirby Lake, Wirral Watersports Centre has breathtaking views of Wales and Hilbre Island, and the local wildlife. There are friendly instructors who are fully qualified to teach according to the methods set down by the Royal Yachting Association and British Canoe Union, making it a very safe facility and a perfect environment for learning.

• Boat Trips at Wirral Sailing Centre: Wirral Sailing Centre offers a variety of water sport activities, with courses available for all ages and levels of experience. The centre also offers boat trips which explore the beautiful Dee Estuary and the local wildlife in its natural environment. Sightings are not guaranteed, but it’s likely that you see Atlantic grey seals, which are quite inquisitive and often pop up to swim around the boat! For further details, just go to https://www.facebook.com/westkirbymarinelake.
  
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Enjoy the Theatre & Music

Wirral theatres and music venues are some of the best in the North West:

• The Floral Pavilion is surely one of Wirral’s best-loved and oldest entertainment venues and has recently been transformed into a stunning state-of-the-art theatre and conference centre. It’s located in the seaside town of New Brighton, on the promenade overlooking the River Mersey. It presents a mix of comedy, music and children’s shows, including a Christmas pantomime.

• Gladstone Theatre is home to many famous shows, artists, actors and musicians alike, comedians and dancers. It’s also used by Local Operatic Societies, Musical Groups, Youth Organisations and dancing schools.
  

Track a mermaid

Do you believe in mermaids? If you do then you are in for a treat! Take this walking trail around New Brighton to discover 6 mermaids- there are 5 identical mermaid statues sculpted by a local artist and decorated by the local school groups based on the tale of a local sailor.

• Statue 1: Kings Parade
• Statue 2: Atherton Street/Victoria Road
• Statue 3: Seabank Road 
• Statue 4: Marine Promenade
• Statue 5: Victoria Parade
  

Explore the Wirral Maritime Trail

The legacy of this heritage is clearly visible throughout, but it is most evident along the Mersey Waterfront from Eastham up to New Brighton. Stretching along the Wirral coast of river Mersey, there is a wealth of maritime history from the ferry services across the river from medieval times to the building of the Ark Royal.

• Eastham
• Woodside
• Seacombe
• Egremont
• New Brighton
  

See Countryside & Rural Attractions

Wirral is made up of several towns, many country villages and smaller hamlets, but the country villages are especially attractive and provide visitors with interesting and quiet places to visit. The unique landscape in these places and the huge wealth of wildlife is one of Wirral’s greatest assets. There are hundreds of acres of woodlands and heath to be explored, in places like Wirral Country Park, Bidston Hill or Heswall Dales Local Nature Reserve.

You can also visit the amazing award-winning Ness Botanic Gardens, parks and farms, many of which provide great activities to get children enjoying the great outdoors and country life.

Farm experiences:

• If you are interested in organic farms and farm-based activities, then Church Farm in Thurstaston is ideal. It is no ordinary farm as it has not just friendly animals, but also beautiful views, family events and a fantastic farm shop.

• For a great summer experience, The Maze at Brimstage Farm is the place to be. You will find plenty of family fun and adventure within its seven-acre maze. There are also lots of other indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy.

• If you’re a foodie, you have to visit Claremont Farm in Bebington! It has a farm shop and an array of activities such as coarse fishing, picking your own strawberries, well walks and tantalising food events. If cake or afternoon tea is the order of the day, then you can’t go wrong with Benty Farm Tea Rooms.
  
  

Just a few other highlights:

For ramblers, cyclists, horse riders and birdwatchers, visit these beautiful Wirral Parks:

• Wirral County Park
• Eastham Country Park

For lovers of flora, fauna and stunning landscaped gardens, Ness Botanic Gardens is a must-see! If you would rather opt for an attractive and historical park, then Birkenhead Park would be ideal.

Shopping

For retail therapy sessions, there is a wide variety of retail experiences, ranging from high-street names to high-quality independent retailers and boutique stores.

• The Pyramids in Birkenhead is spread over an indoor centre and pedestrian outdoor streets with more than 130 high-street shops, banks and great places to eat out. It’s a popular destination for both visitors and locals alike.

• Brimstage Hall & Courtyard is all about a relaxing shopping experience in the countryside. It’s a popular destination with quality independent shops, including local artists, gifts, ladies’ fashion, home furnishing, fair trade, beautiful flowers and so much more! These stores are set around a courtyard along with a restaurant and coffee shop.

• Carr Farm Garden Centre has been a full-working farm since the 1930s and it has been transformed into a modern farm that fits into today’s mould. You can get anything from fresh produce to the finest wine, as well as quality garden products such as furniture, house plants and much more!

• Gordale Garden and Home Centre is another great place for your garden needs. It’s much more than just a garden centre though- it's an award-winning destination and home store with a loyal team of experts. It’s conveniently situated in South Wirral and set in glorious 15 acres. You can be sure to find outdoor and indoor furniture, gifts for all ages, seasonal products, indoor plants and artificial flowers, fashion clothing and so much more. There’s even a food hall featuring locally sourced produce, a cafe/coffee shop, children’s play areas, extensive landscaped gardens and resident wildlife, featuring guinea fowl!
  

Nearby:

You can also get your shopping fix at Cheshire Oak- a shopping destination for people across the Northwest, and of course in Liverpool where the city centre offers a range of great retail options and some restaurants and bars for when you’ve finished!

If Wirral is the place for you and you would like to set up your home there, then check out our variety of properties across Wirral.

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