There’s so much to see and do throughout Merseyside. Did you know that idyllic beaches such as Formby and green spaces like Sefton Park are only a short journey from Liverpool city centre? All of which are easily accessible by Merseyrail, ‘Bike and Go’ or foot! Here are our top 20 things to do when visiting the wider city region...
Southport
Southport is a perfect destination for the ultimate family day out. Kids of all ages will LOVE amusement park, Pleasureland. Relax with a picnic by Kings Garden... if you have little ones a visit to the play area here is not to be missed, plus throughout the year King's Gardens host some brilliant events, including an outdoor cinema.
Hillside
Hillside is home to the Royal Birkdale Golf Course, voted as the number one golf club in England and one of the top five in the UK! The Royal Birkdale has held more Championship and International tournaments than any other course in the world. Visitors can expect a warm welcome on and off the course delivering a golfing experience second to none.
Ainsdale
The sandy, dune backed beach of Ainsdale is considered the main bathing beach of Southport with the oldest iron pier in Britain. You can also find Ainsdale Discovery Centre situated on the edge of the beach. The area is cycle-friendly, so you can pick up a Bike & Go from Ainsdale Station and take a trip down the coastline.
Freshfield
Take a stroll around the different paths and trails in the idyllic woodland area of Freshfield Squirrel Reserve… how many Squirrels can you spot?
Formby
Formby Beach is ideal for families, with large picnic areas and marked paths to the beach, dunes and woodland areas. On a clear day, the high dunes afford excellent views across the Irish Sea, even the mountains of Cumbria can be seen!
Hall Road
You can find West Lancashire Golf Club across from Hall Road station. Founded in 1873, it is one of the top ten oldest golf clubs in England. The course offers an imaginative and varied in layout, with stunning views of the Mersey Estuary, and the Welsh Mountains.
Hightown
Head to The Pheasant Pub for a local, lively atmosphere serving hearty modern dishes and cask ales. Cosy up by the log fires or enjoy a spot of alfresco dining in their beautiful gardens.
Blundellsands & Crosby
Check out Anthony Gormley’s art installation ‘Another Place’ on Crosby Beach. 100 spectacular cast-iron, life-size figures are spread across three kilometres of the foreshore and stretch almost one kilometre out to sea. The Another Place figures - each one weighing 650 kilos - are made from casts of the artist's own body standing on the beach, all of them looking out to sea, staring at the horizon in silent expectation.
Waterloo
Try out something new at Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre! If you love adventure, then you’ll love taking part in their water sport classes; try out water sports such as sailing, paddling, windsurfing and powerboating. Or, you can watch from afar the indoor Lakeside Bar & Bistro.
Seaforth & Litherland
Head to Piccola Italia in Litherland for some delicious, authentic Italian food. It’s the first and only Italian restaurant in the area and is a firm favourite with locals. We recommend trying out their Prosciutto E Funghi pizza.
Aintree
Across from the station is the world-famous Aintree Racecourse which is best known for annually holding the Grand National and Ladies Day race events. They have also started hosting outdoor concerts and have recently had Craig David and Lightning Seeds perfoming live.
Old Roan
Something different to try with a group of mates - Having a Bubble Football! Bubble Football is an activity in which players are encased in an inflatable Bubble from the head to waist, legs are kept free in order to run. Participants are encouraged to bounce into one another in games and football matches in order to claim the ball/win the challenge. Extremely popular with stag and hen parties!
Town Green
Town Green Brasserie is a cosy, family-friendly pub, based in the charming Aughton Village, a short walk from Town Green Station. It’s a favourite meeting place for a glass of wine or cocktail with friends. The brasserie offers quality seafood specials as well as traditional British classics from some of the finest local suppliers.
Ormskirk
Head to Miyagi, a pan-asian inspired restaurant and bar that serves amazing soul food such as Nori Taco's, Katsu and Bao Buns!
Sandhills
Try out Climbing Hangar, an all-age and ability indoor rock-climbing and bouldering centre. They also offer a range of clubs and classes to help you gain confidence and meet new people!
Central
Liverpool Central is situated in the heart of Liverpool, where there is plenty to see and do. Take a stroll up Bold Street, one of the best shopping streets in the country. From independent stores to incredible cafes and restaurants. The famous Albert Dock and waterfront is also a short walk away from Liverpool Central.
Brunswick
Take part in Team Sport's adrenaline-fueled go karting circuit, offering buckets of fast, furious fun. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced driver, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable day on the track.
St Michaels
St. Michael’s Station is a short walk away from Liverpool’s famous Lark Lane and Sefton Park. Enjoy some delicious food from independent restaurants such as Esteban, the Monkey Grinder or Love & Rockets. Take a stroll around the incredible Sefton Park, A magnificent 235 acre park which is Grade 1 listed, the perfect place of a leisurely walk, a picnic with the family or even a run, if you fancy it! It’s also home to the beautiful Palm House which has lots of events going on, a children's playground plus so much more!
Aigburth
Head to the Festival Gardens in Aigburth, a beautiful tranquil space with oriental gardens, pagodas, lakes, waterways and waterfalls. Enjoy a picnic, look for wildlife or even enjoy an ice cream in the sun!
Liverpool South Parkway
South Parkway is the station predominantly used to travel to John Lennon Airport. However, a short taxi drive from the station is Speke Hall Garden & Estate. There’s no shortage of adventure at Speke Hall, and most activities are completely FREE! Discover the Maze, play areas and the Giant Childe of Hale play trail.