Birkdale Sandhills
Wild coastal dunes and a Blue Flag beach offering natural beauty, wildlife, and invigorating walks along the Sefton Coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos & wildlife
Birkdale Sandhills
Best Time
Best light for photos & wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Wild coastal dunes and a Blue Flag beach offering natural beauty, wildlife, and invigorating walks along the Sefton Coast.
"The sand dunes are stunning, absolutely amazing place to walk in all types of weather!"
🐾 Dog Waste Vigilance
Bring bags and be mindful of dog waste; it's a recurring issue.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Trails can be sandy and uneven; comfortable shoes are a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sefton Coast Dunes
Birkdale Sandhills
Expansive sand dunes offering diverse landscapes, from woodland to traditional sandy stretches. Perfect for walks and wildlife spotting.
+1Ainsdale Beach
Adjacent to Birkdale Sandhills
A pristine beach with a Quality Coast Award and Blue Flag status, ideal for sun-seeking families and dog walkers.
Wildlife Encounters
Throughout the Sandhills
Keep an eye out for Roe Deer and various bird species, adding a magical element to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Timing is Everything
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog Waste Vigilance
Bring bags and be mindful of dog waste; it's a recurring issue.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Trails can be sandy and uneven; comfortable shoes are a must for exploring.
🧥 Layer Up for Weather
Coastal weather can change quickly; dress in layers for comfort.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The dunes and coastline offer stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog Waste Vigilance
Bring bags and be mindful of dog waste; it's a recurring issue.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Trails can be sandy and uneven; comfortable shoes are a must for exploring.
🧥 Layer Up for Weather
Coastal weather can change quickly; dress in layers for comfort.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The dunes and coastline offer stunning photo opportunities, especially at sunset.
🦌 Look for Wildlife
You might spot deer or birds, adding a special touch to your walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Birkdale Sandhills for its stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and the expansive Ainsdale Beach. It's a popular spot for dog walkers and offers opportunities for wildlife spotting. However, some find the amount of dog waste left by others to be a significant downside, and bins can be infrequent or overflowing.
"We took a walk in Ainsdale pine woods on Monday 2nd June, then walked to the beach and on our way back spotted a dear with a baby dear! Such a dreamy walk, our dog absolutely loves it here!"
Kym McGrath
"we have a rescue dog,and discover he loveees dunes.
so after a google search .drive way from home 50 min,im from Leigh under Wigan"
Dog sitter Leigh, Wigan (pet sitter)
"The sand dunes are stunning, absolutely amazing place to walk in all types of weather!
The one and only downside is the amount of dog poo left by others, its everywhere unfortunately!"
Aaron Maxwell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Birkdale Sandhills are accessible by car, with parking available near Ainsdale Beach. Public transport options include local buses and trains to Ainsdale station, followed by a walk.
Yes, there is parking available, particularly near Ainsdale Beach, which serves as a common access point to the sandhills.
Cycling is generally permitted on designated paths, but be mindful of the sandy terrain and other visitors.
Due to the sandy and uneven terrain, wheelchair access can be challenging. Some paved paths near the beach may offer limited accessibility.
Walking and running are popular ways to explore. Consider following the various routes through the dunes and woodland for a varied experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Birkdale Sandhills and Ainsdale Beach is generally free. Parking may incur a fee depending on the location and season.
The sandhills are open access, meaning you can visit at any time. However, facilities like car parks may have specific operating hours.
Ainsdale Beach itself does not typically have an entrance fee, but parking charges may apply.
Yes, dogs are welcome in the sandhills and on Ainsdale Beach, but owners are strongly advised to keep them under control and clean up after them.
While generally open, be aware of any seasonal restrictions or local bylaws, especially concerning dog access during peak times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy walking, running, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. Ainsdale Beach offers opportunities for sunbathing and beach activities.
Basic facilities like bins are available, but they can sometimes be overflowing. Toilets are usually found near the main beach access points.
The area is generally safe, but it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially if venturing off main paths.
You might encounter Roe Deer, various bird species, and other coastal wildlife.
Picnics are welcome, but please ensure you take all your litter with you to help keep the area clean.
📸 📸 Photography
The rolling dunes, coastal vistas, and dramatic sunsets over the Irish Sea provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic light for landscape and seascape photography.
Focus on the unique dune grasses, the vastness of the beach, and any wildlife you might encounter.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing distant wildlife.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and airspace restrictions. Always check before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities can be limited. Sun protection is essential, even on cloudy days. While dogs are welcome, ensure they are well-behaved and kept under control, and always be mindful of other visitors and the environment.
🐶 Dog Owners
Key advice for dog owners: Be prepared for sandy paws and potentially muddy conditions. The most critical tip is to always clean up after your dog. Unfortunately, dog waste is a recurring issue here, and responsible owners are vital to keeping the area pleasant for everyone.
🏃♀️ Runners & Fitness Enthusiasts
+1Running tips: Wear appropriate footwear for sandy terrain. Consider the tide times if planning a long run along the beach. The ever-changing landscape ensures that no two runs are quite the same.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Sefton Coast Dunes
+1Many visitors enjoy the walking and running trails that wind through the dunes. These paths provide access to stunning viewpoints and allow for exploration of the diverse flora and fauna. The prairie grass and other hardy vegetation play a crucial role in stabilizing the dunes, creating a beautiful, textured landscape.
It's important to stick to marked paths where possible to help preserve the fragile dune environment. The natural beauty of the sandhills is a major draw, offering a sense of wildness and tranquility that many find rejuvenating.
Ainsdale Beach: More Than Just Sand
The beach is also a designated area for dog walkers, making it a fantastic destination for those with canine companions. However, this popularity means that responsible dog ownership, including waste disposal, is crucial for maintaining the beach's cleanliness.
Beyond sunbathing, the vast expanse of Ainsdale Beach is also used for activities like running and even driving on certain sections (check local regulations). The beach provides a different perspective of the Sefton Coast, with wide-open views of the Irish Sea.
Wildlife Wonders of Birkdale
Birdwatchers will also find plenty to appreciate, with various species inhabiting the dunes and surrounding coastal habitats. The mix of grassland, scrub, and proximity to the sea creates diverse opportunities for birdlife.
Beyond the larger mammals and birds, the sandhills support a rich invertebrate population, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the area. Even a simple walk can reveal the intricate details of this coastal ecosystem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit