Formby Red Squirrel Reserve and Beach
Southport, Lancashire
Formby is one of the best places in England to see red squirrels, which thrive in the pine woodland planted on the dune system. The walk combines the pine woods with the vast sandy beach, where prehistoric human and animal footprints are exposed at low tide.
The Route
Start from the National Trust car park and walk through the pine woodland, looking for red squirrels feeding in the canopy. Cross the dunes to the vast sandy beach, where the Liverpool and Welsh Mountain skylines are visible. Walk along the beach (vast at low tide) before returning through the asparagus fields and pinewoods.
Dog-Friendly Details
Dogs must be on leads in the squirrel reserve (April to September). Off lead on the beach year-round. The beach is one of the best in the north-west for dogs, with miles of space. Dogs are not allowed on the fenced asparagus fields. Fresh water available at the car park.
Practical Information
National Trust car park (pay-and-display, free for members). The Freshfield pub nearby welcomes dogs. No facilities on the beach. The coast can be windy. Check tide times - the beach is best at low to mid tide. Prehistoric footprints visible in the peat beds near the waterline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I see red squirrels?
Red squirrels are present year-round but most visible in autumn when they gather food. Walk quietly through the pines and look up. Early mornings are best. They are genuinely wild so sightings are not guaranteed but are common.
What are the prehistoric footprints?
Footprints from humans, deer, aurochs and wild boar dating back 5,000-7,000 years are preserved in peat beds on the beach. They are exposed by tides and erosion. Look for them near the waterline at low tide.
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