Crosby Beach and Formby Beach are two captivating coastal destinations in the Liverpool area, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a beach lover, or simply seeking a scenic outdoor adventure, this stretch of the Merseyside coastline is sure to captivate your senses.
Discovering Crosby Beach and Its Iconic Sculptures
Crosby Beach is renowned for its striking Anthony Gormley’s “Another Place” installation, which features 100 cast-iron figures spread across a 2-mile stretch of the shoreline. These thought-provoking sculptures, each standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall, create a mesmerizing and contemplative experience for visitors. The beach itself is a mix of sand and pebbles, offering panoramic views of the Liverpool docks and the Irish Sea.
Exploring the Diverse Landscapes of Formby Beach
In contrast, Formby Beach is characterized by its expansive sand dunes, pine woods, and the captivating Red Squirrel Reserve. This natural haven is a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities to spot the elusive red squirrel and explore the serene coastal paths. The beach itself is a vast expanse of golden sand, perfect for leisurely strolls, sandcastle building, and enjoying the tranquility of the seaside.
Accessibility and Transportation
Reaching these coastal gems is relatively straightforward. Crosby Beach is easily accessible by public transport, with regular trains from Liverpool Central to Blundellsands & Crosby station, which is just a short walk from the beach. To get to Formby Beach, you can take a train from Liverpool Central to Formby station and then either take a short bus ride or walk to the beach.
The Coastal Path: A Scenic Journey
The coastal path that connects Crosby Beach and Formby Beach is an 11-mile route that takes you through a diverse range of landscapes, including beaches, dunes, and coastal paths. This scenic journey can take between 4 to 6 hours, depending on your pace and the number of stops you make along the way. The route starts at Marine Crescent in Crosby, leading you down the path to Crosby Marina and then onto Crosby Beach. From there, you’ll follow the coastal path, passing through Hightown Beach with its Submerged Forest and then onto Formby Point.
Cost and Timings
Access to both Crosby Beach and Formby Beach is free, but there are charges for car parking at Formby Beach, which is operated by the National Trust. The coastal path walk can be enjoyed at your own pace, with the full journey taking between 4 to 6 hours, depending on your fitness level and the number of stops you make.
Safety and Facilities
Both Crosby Beach and Formby Beach have lifeguard services during the summer months, and it’s advisable to check the tide times before embarking on the coastal walk. Formby Beach also has additional facilities, including toilets, a café, and a National Trust shop at the Formby Point Visitor Centre.
Incidents and Statistics
While there have been isolated incidents, such as a stabbing on Formby Beach in 2021, the beaches remain popular and safe destinations for visitors. The overall safety record of these coastal areas is generally positive, and they continue to attract thousands of visitors each year.
Exploring the captivating landscapes from Crosby Beach to Formby Beach is a truly rewarding experience for beach enthusiasts, nature lovers, and outdoor adventurers alike. Whether you choose to visit one or both of these coastal gems, you’re sure to be enchanted by the unique charms and natural wonders that this stretch of the Merseyside coastline has to offer.
References:
– Crosby Beach to Formby Beach Coastal Walk
– Crosby Beach and Formby Beach: A Coastal Adventure
– Crosby Beach to Formby Beach: A Scenic Coastal Journey