With its sweeping beaches, whispering pine woods, and shifting dunes, Formby on the Sefton Coast is a dream for walkers who crave a blend of wild beauty and manageable distance. And the best part? There are some fantastic circular walks near Formby that let you explore it all—without retracing your steps.
Whether you’re after a gentle family stroll, a nature-filled ramble, or a brisk hike with sea views, Formby offers something for every pace. Here’s your guide to the best circular routes in and around this stunning coastal gem.
🥾 1. Formby Red Squirrel Walk (Approx. 1.8 miles / 3 km)
Start/End: National Trust Formby Car Park (Victoria Road)
Terrain: Easy, flat, woodland paths
Highlights:
- Spotting rare red squirrels in their natural pine forest habitat
- Peaceful trails through the National Trust’s woodlands
- A perfect short walk for families and wildlife lovers
Look out for well-marked paths and interpretive signs. Early morning or late afternoon are best for squirrel sightings.
🥾 2. Formby Point Coastal & Woodland Loop (Approx. 4 miles / 6.5 km)
Start/End: Lifeboat Road Car Park
Terrain: Moderate – mix of sand, boardwalk, and woodland trails
Highlights:
- Panoramic views across the Irish Sea
- Dramatic sand dunes and whispering marram grass
- A mix of habitats: beach, pine woods, and open dunes
- Ideal for birdwatching, especially in spring and autumn
This circular route begins at Lifeboat Road and loops through the dunes and woodland before returning along the beach—ideal at low tide for a firm sandy stroll.
🥾 3. Ravenmeols Circular Trail (Approx. 5.5 miles / 9 km)
Start/End: National Trust Formby (Victoria Road or Lifeboat Road)
Terrain: Moderate – sandy and grassy paths
Highlights:
- The remote Ravenmeols Sandhills, a quiet and lesser-known gem
- Possible sightings of natterjack toads and dune flora
- A true sense of wildness just minutes from the car park
This circular trail is quieter than the main National Trust paths, with a more rugged feel. Great for those wanting solitude and space to explore.
🥾 4. Formby to Ainsdale Circular via Woodland and Coast (Approx. 7 miles / 11 km)
Start/End: Lifeboat Road or Ainsdale Discovery Centre
Terrain: Moderate – some sandy stretches
Highlights:
- A mix of woodland trails, open dunes, and coastal paths
- Views across the Sefton coastline, often dotted with windsurfers and wading birds
- Links up with the Sefton Coastal Path for a bigger day out
Start at either end, and follow a loop that includes beach walking (check tides), woodland paths, and a return inland through nature reserves.
🌿 Good to Know
- Dogs welcome on most routes, but may need to be on a lead during bird nesting or red squirrel breeding season.
- Car parks at Victoria Road and Lifeboat Road are run by the National Trust—free for members, charges apply for non-members.
- Toilets and picnic spots available at both main NT car parks.
- Always check tide times if your route includes a beach section, as the sea comes in fast along this coast.
☕ After-Walk Refreshments
- The Freshfield Pub – A local favourite with a big beer garden, dog-friendly.
- Squirrel Café (NT Formby) – A great pit stop for light bites and a brew.
- Formby Village – Full of cafés, bakeries, and independent shops if you want to round off your walk with a treat.
🚆 Getting There
- By Train: Formby and Freshfield stations are both within walking distance of trailheads.
- By Car: Easy access from Liverpool, Southport, and the M58; follow signs to National Trust Formby for parking.
✨ Final Thoughts
Formby is more than just a beach—it’s a coastal landscape teeming with life, layered with history, and stitched together by some of the most scenic circular walks in the North West. Whether you’re here for an hour or a whole day, there’s a route waiting to show you a different side of this beautiful stretch of coast.
So lace up your walking boots, bring your binoculars, and let the dunes, squirrels, and sea breeze guide you.
Have a favourite walk in Formby? Share your trail tips in the comments below!