Southport is one of the most beautiful places in the UK and has some of the best walks in the country.
From the iconic North Shore Beach Walk to the Rufford Country Park Walk, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll along the seafront promenade or explore the marshside nature reserve, there’s plenty of places to explore and enjoy the stunning scenery.
I’m here to tell you about some of the best walks Southport has to offer, so let’s get started!
North Shore Beach Walk
The North Shore Beach Walk is the perfect way to take in Southport’s stunning coastal views!
Starting at the south end of the beach, the walk takes in some of the most iconic landmarks in the city – from the famous Pier to the historic Marine Lake.
As you walk, you can’t help but be in awe of the beautiful scenery – the sea sparkling in the sunlight, the small boats bobbing in the waves, and the wild birds diving for fish.
The smell of the salt water and the cries of the seagulls create a peaceful atmosphere that makes it easy to forget the hustle and bustle of the city.
The walk is also a great way to get some exercise – the flat, sandy beach is perfect for jogging, biking, or just taking a slow stroll.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an invigorating workout, the North Shore Beach Walk is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
Hightown Cliffs Walk
Strolling along Hightown Cliffs, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and the Welsh coast.
A popular walk amongst locals and visitors alike, this peaceful route offers stunning views of the coastline, the occasional wildlife sighting, and plenty of fresh air.
The path is easy to follow and provides plenty of opportunity to take in the scenery.
As you make your way along the cliffs, you’ll pass through rolling meadows, wooded areas, and rocky outcrops.
You might even catch a glimpse of the occasional wild rabbit or fox.
Along the way, you’ll find plenty of places to stop and sit and take in the views of the surrounding countryside.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk with a friend or a brisk stroll with family, the Hightown Cliffs Walk is the perfect choice.
Not only will you be able to take in the beautiful views, but you’ll also be able to enjoy the fresh air and take in the sights and sounds of nature.
So, if you’re looking for a peaceful and enjoyable walk in Southport, make sure to check out the Hightown Cliffs Walk.
Town Centre Riverside Walk
Exploring Southport’s town centre along the Riverside Walk is a great way to take in the sights of the city.
Stretching from the Marine Lake to the Marine Lake Bridge, this picturesque trail is lined with lush greenery and follows the River Mersey.
Along the way, you’ll find a variety of public parks and gardens, as well as plenty of spots to relax and watch the boats go by.
The walk also features several historical buildings, including the former Customs House, which is now home to a museum.
The Riverside Walk offers plenty of opportunities to take in the beauty of Southport, from the stunning views of the marine lake to the quaint seaside atmosphere of the town centre.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a longer trek, the Riverside Walk is an ideal way to explore the area.
Marshside Nature Reserve Walk
Experience the breathtaking scenery of the Marshside Nature Reserve on a refreshing walk.
Stretching across a vast area of more than 300 hectares, this nature reserve offers a variety of habitats and species to explore.
From wet grasslands to reedbeds, you can take in the beauty of the flora and fauna of this area.
Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of wildfowl that inhabit the area, including wigeon, teal, and shoveler ducks.
The Marshside Nature Reserve also serves as a haven for rare species such as the natterjack toad and the woodlark.
With a beautiful boardwalk, walking trails, and a viewing platform, it’s easy to explore this nature reserve and take in its beauty.
The walks here are suitable for all ages and abilities, so grab your friends and family and take a stroll around this stunning nature reserve.
Seafront Promenade Walk
Take a leisurely stroll along Southport’s seafront promenade and soak in the stunning views of the Irish Sea. This walk is great for people of all ages and fitness levels, as it’s flat and accessible.
The promenade is a great place to take a break and relax, with plenty of benches and picnic tables along the way. You can even take a seat on the pier to take in the stunning views of the town and the sea.
The walk is also host to some fantastic attractions, with several popular shops and restaurants dotted along the way. You can also take a break to enjoy the popular Southport Beach, where you can find plenty of sand, sun, and surf.
Enjoy the sights and sounds of the sea, and take in some of Southport’s spectacular coastal scenery.
Birkdale Woods Walk
Embark on a peaceful journey through Birkdale Woods, where you can bask in the tranquil atmosphere of nature.
This vast woodland area is one of the most scenic walks in Southport, and it’s a great way to enjoy the beauty of the region.
You’ll be met by a lush canopy of trees, providing plenty of shade and the opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of the woods.
The paths themselves are fairly flat and easy to navigate, making them accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
As you make your way through the woods, you may spot some of the local wildlife, including woodpeckers, badgers, and squirrels.
The air is fresh and the smell of pine needles is strong; it’s a perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
At the end of your journey, you’ll be met with stunning views of the surrounding area, and the feeling of accomplishment that comes from taking a walk in the woods.
Scarisbrick Marina Walk
Get lost in the peaceful ambiance of Scarisbrick Marina on a gentle stroll that will leave you feeling refreshed.
This tranquil walk winds along the river bank, with views of the marina in the background.
Enjoy the serenity of the area, as you take in the sights of the boats bobbing in the water.
There are hidden spots for you to explore along the way, with plenty of places to pause and take in the moment.
The marina comes alive in the evening, with the lights of the boats twinkling in the darkness.
Take a stroll in the twilight and marvel at the beauty of the marina.
The peaceful atmosphere of the marina is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed after a long day.
Ainsdale Sand Dunes Walk
Experience the stunning beauty of Ainsdale Sand Dunes by taking a leisurely stroll through the area. This gorgeous landscape is a designated National Nature Reserve and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life.
The walk through the dunes is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and to get in touch with nature. The area is full of interesting sights and sounds, including the sight of the sand dunes rippling in the wind and the sound of birds singing in the trees.
As you walk, you’ll be able to spot a variety of wildflowers, butterflies, and other wildlife. The walk is a great way to connect with nature and to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area.
The views of the dunes and the surrounding countryside are breathtaking, and the serenity of the environment is something to truly be appreciated. Ainsdale Sand Dunes is the perfect place to escape the stresses of everyday life and to enjoy a peaceful and calming walk.
Woodvale Cemetery and Nature Reserve Walk
Leaving the coast behind, I’m now heading inland to Woodvale Cemetery and Nature Reserve to explore a different type of nature walk.
This walk is peaceful, serene, and tranquil.
Situated between Southport and Ormskirk, the cemetery is a small but beautiful area of green space.
The beauty and tranquility of the cemetery make it the perfect place to take a peaceful walk.
The cemetery itself is relatively small, but the grounds are well-maintained, with plenty of flowers, trees, and shrubs.
There are also plenty of benches and seating areas, so you can take a break and enjoy the views.
As you wander around the cemetery, you can also explore the nature reserve, where you can spot a variety of birds and wildlife.
A walk through the cemetery and nature reserve is a great way to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Southport Town Centre Walk
Exploring Southport Town Centre is a great way to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this seaside town. From the bustling promenade to the historic Lord Street, there’s something for everyone.
Take a stroll along Lord Street and admire the 19th-century architecture, which includes the magnificent Grade II listed Clifton House.
Stop off at Southport Pier, the second longest pier in the UK. Or, take a leisurely stroll along the Marine Lake promenade, taking in the panoramic views of the coastline.
There are plenty of places to take a break, including the many cafes, pubs, and restaurants along the way.
Southport Town Centre is the perfect place to take an afternoon walk to relax and take in the scenery. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder it’s one of the best walks in Southport.
Churchtown Village Walk
Leaving the hustle and bustle of Southport Town Centre behind, I now turn my attention to Churchtown Village, a delightful area located a few miles south of Southport.
A picturesque stroll through Churchtown Village is a great way to relax and take in the beauty of the village.
The village is full of hidden gems, from the cobbled streets and the charming shops to the historic buildings and the lovely parks.
A stroll around the village will take you past the Churchtown Methodist Church, the ancient Churchtown Hall, and the beautifully maintained Churchtown Gardens.
These gardens are a great place to stop and admire the flowers and trees, or just take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of the village.
The winding lanes are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the village’s pubs and cafes are great places to take a break and refuel.
Ainsdale Beach Walk
Adventuring to Ainsdale Beach, visitors can take in the stunning coastal views and soak up the sun-drenched atmosphere.
With a walk along the sandy shore, guests will be captivated by the picturesque beach, with its wide stretches of sand and sparkling blue waters.
There’s plenty to explore, with rockpools and sand dunes to discover, as well as plenty of spots to relax and take in the sights.
Ainsdale Beach is also a great spot for bird-watching, and visitors can expect to spot a variety of different species, including curlews, oystercatchers, and sandpipers.
For those looking for a longer walk, the beach is connected to the Sefton Coastal Path, which extends for miles along the coast, providing stunning views of the Irish Sea.
With its breathtaking scenery, Ainsdale Beach is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll.
Rufford Country Park Walk
Heading to Rufford Country Park, you’ll be immersed in nature’s beauty with its vast woodlands and meadows. Known as one of the best walks in Southport, this 4-mile walk takes you around the lake, giving you a chance to experience the diverse wildlife, including birds, deer, and butterflies.
As you walk, you’ll pass by historic sites like the 14th century Rufford Old Hall and the Victorian Rufford Hall. You’ll also have the chance to explore the gardens, which are full of interesting and colorful plants, a unique feature of this park.
The route is easy to follow, with signposts along the way, so you can take your time to enjoy the scenery. For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, there are longer options, including the 8-mile long trek through the surrounding area.
Whether you’re looking for a short, leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike, Rufford Country Park is the perfect destination for a great walk in Southport.
Scarisbrick Hall Walk
Exploring Scarisbrick Hall is an enchanting experience, giving you a chance to appreciate the beauty of its lush grounds and grand architecture. Located in Southport, Scarisbrick Hall is one of the most popular walking spots for those looking to get away from it all.
The grounds of the hall feature plenty of paths and trails to explore, as well as plenty of wildlife to observe. The path circles around the perimeter of the grounds, offering stunning views of the beautifully maintained gardens and pond.
The Hall itself is a grand, Tudor-style building that’s worth admiring. Its stunning architecture and classic design add a sense of character and charm to the walk.
As you make your way around Scarisbrick Hall, there are plenty of benches and seating areas that allow you to take a break and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.
With its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Scarisbrick Hall is an ideal spot for a leisurely walk.
Hesketh Park Walk
After the stunning views of Scarisbrick Hall, our next stop is Hesketh Park. This is a beautiful walk located in Southport, offering a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere.
The park itself consists of a lake, gardens, a wooded area, and the Hesketh Golf Club. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll around the lake, taking in the sights of the park.
The lake is home to a variety of waterfowl, so you can enjoy watching them while you walk. The wooded area is perfect for exploring, with a variety of trees and plants to admire. The gardens are also beautiful, boasting a variety of flowers and plants.
The golf course is also a great spot to take in the view of Southport from a different perspective. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or an adventure, Hesketh Park has something for everyone.
Conclusion
There’s no better way to explore Southport than on foot. From the tranquil North Shore Beach Walk to the ever-impressive Hesketh Park Walk, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Whether you’re seeking an invigorating hike or a leisurely stroll, these 15 best walks in Southport are sure to leave you feeling energized and inspired.
So grab your walking shoes and explore the best Southport has to offer! You won’t regret it.