Attractions and Places To See in Sefton - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Sefton include a diverse range of notable landmarks, striking natural features, and cultural sites. This metropolitan borough in Merseyside, England, offers an expansive coastline, historic village centers, and significant green spaces. Sefton provides numerous opportunities for exploration, encompassing both natural beauty and historical interest.
Best attractions and places to see in Sefton
- The most popular attractions is Southport Pier, a historical site that offers views of the Irish Sea and a classic…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Woodland Path, Ainsdale National Nature Reserve
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Southport Pier
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Another Place Sculptures, Crosby Beach
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Crosby Beach (Blundellsands)
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Formby Beach
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Leeds & Liverpool Canal
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Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve
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The Scotch Piper Inn
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Sefton Coast Cycleway by Altcar Training Camp
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Airplane Sculpture at Shore Road Roundabout
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Tips from the Community
The statues are scattered up a long stretch of beach
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Beltin pub for a bite and pint, just off Cheshire Lines path.
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Formby Beach is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in the UK, located along the Sefton coast in Merseyside. Managed by the National Trust, it offers a mix of golden sand dunes, pine woodlands, and breathtaking sea views. The Pine Woodlands hosts red squirrels, natterjack toads and various seabirds species.
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If you don't stop at the roundabout you will miss it
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"Southport Pier opened in August 1860, it is the oldest iron pier in the country. Its length of 1,108 m (3,635 ft) makes it the second-longest in Great Britain, after Southend Pier. Although at one time spanning 1,340 m (4,380 ft), a succession of storms and fires during the late 19th and early 20th centuries reduced its length to that of the present day. The pier has been host to famous entertainers, including Charlie Chaplin in the early 20th century. It was visited by steamliners in its heyday, but silting of the channel meant that by the 1920s very few steamers were able to reach the pier, and the service ceased in 1929. The pier fell into disrepair throughout the late 20th century, and by 1990 it was operating at a significant annual loss with rising maintenance costs. The local council sought to have the pier demolished, but were defeated in their attempt by a single vote. The pier was significantly restored during 2000–2002, and opened to the public in May 2002. The Southport Pier Tramway ran from Southport Promenade to the pier head at various times in the pier's history with various rolling stock, most recently until June 2015. The pier is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade II listed building, first listed on 18 August 1975." Source: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southport_Pier
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"This sculpture commemorates two double transatlantic flights in the early days of aviation undertaken by the pilot Dick Merrill, via Southport. The Lady Peace ‘Ping Pong’ Flight In 1936, Dick Merrill was looking to do a double transatlantic flight. The object was to fly from New York to England and then back again. He teamed up with a famous broadway entertainer called Harry Richman. Richman not only owned a plane capable of doing this feat, but was prepared to finance the journey to the tune of $360,000, a huge sum in those days. His aircraft was a specially modified monoplane Vultee V-1A, which he named the Lady Peace. However, part of its modifications involved the installation of 41,000 table tennis balls in the wings and tail which supposedly would help with buoyancy if the plane landed in water. This led the press to dub it the ‘Ping Pong Flight’. After making it successfully from New York to Wales, the plane then flew on to London. But the return trip was to prove a problem – they needed a really long runway in order to take off, as they would be carrying a lot of fuel. The largest runway in the country at the time was at Liverpool’s Speke airport, but this was deemed too short. The solution lay relatively nearby though; the stretch of beach from Ainsdale to Birkdale was deemed ideal. At 3am on the 14th September 1936, on a makeshift runway lit by flares, the plane ran along nearly a mile of beach before successfully taking off. Bad winds and an accidental loss of fuel on the way over the Atlantic meant that they were forced to land 100 miles north of St John, Newfoundland. A week later they finished their trip and arrived in New York. The Coronation Flight Just eight months later, Dick Merrill was hired to do the same double Atlantic trip again. The abdication of Edward VIII meant there would be a coronation of a new king, George VI, on May 10th 1937. The American press baron, William Randolph Hearst, wanted pictures in his papers before his competitors got them, and this led two Wall Street brokers, knowing of Merrill’s previous flight, to engage him to deliver the goods." Source: https://lancashirepast.com/2018/08/18/early-transatlantic-flights-via-southport/
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I experience Sefton's natural beauty and wildlife?
Sefton offers several stunning natural areas. Formby Beach is renowned for its golden sand dunes, pine woodlands, and is a habitat for rare red squirrels and natterjack toads. Another key location is Ainsdale National Nature Reserve, a vital stronghold for the natterjack toad and home to red squirrels, sand lizards, and diverse wildflowers. You can also explore Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve for birdwatching and tranquil landscapes.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Sefton?
Yes, Sefton has many family-friendly options. Southport Pier offers a classic seaside experience. The unique Another Place Sculptures at Crosby Beach are fascinating for all ages. Formby Beach with its sand dunes and red squirrels is also a popular choice for families. Additionally, the Leeds & Liverpool Canal provides opportunities for family-friendly walks and cycling.
What historical sites or cultural landmarks can I visit in Sefton?
Beyond the well-known pier, Sefton boasts several historical and cultural sites. The Scotch Piper Inn is a historical pub. Churchtown Village in Southport, dating back to the Domesday Book, offers a glimpse into Sefton's past with its historical churches and quaint cottages. The Sefton Village Conservation Area features the stunning St. Helen's Church, a Grade I listed building with parts from 1320. Crosby Blitz Beach also holds historical significance as a dumping ground for rubble from the Liverpool Blitz.
What are some popular walking or cycling routes near Sefton's attractions?
Sefton offers various routes for outdoor enthusiasts. For walking, you can explore the Crosby Beach loop & the Another Place Sculpture from Waterloo Station or the Formby Asparagus and Squirrel Trail. Cyclists can enjoy the Leeds & Liverpool Canal or the Sefton Coast Cycleway by Altcar Training Camp. For more options, check out the Running Trails in Sefton or Gravel biking in Sefton guides.
How can I get to the "Another Place" sculptures at Crosby Beach?
The "Another Place" sculptures by Antony Gormley are located on Crosby Beach. You can reach Crosby Beach by public transport, with Waterloo and Blundellsands & Crosby train stations nearby. If driving, parking is available in the vicinity. The sculptures are spread along the foreshore, making for an accessible walk once you arrive.
Is public transport available to Formby Beach and its nature reserves?
Yes, Formby Beach and its associated nature reserves are accessible by public transport. Freshfield Station is a convenient train station for reaching the Formby area, including the National Trust site at Formby Beach and the nearby pine woodlands and dunes. Ainsdale Station is also close to Ainsdale National Nature Reserve.
What is the best time of year to visit Sefton for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for outdoor activities in Sefton, offering milder weather for exploring beaches, nature reserves, and trails. During these seasons, you're more likely to spot rare species like natterjack toads and enjoy the full bloom of wildflowers. However, the coastal paths and woodlands can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering a different perspective.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths or attractions in Sefton?
Yes, Ainsdale National Nature Reserve offers accessible options. The Woodland Path and Fisherman’s Path within the reserve are accessible by wheelchairs and pushchairs, and there is a fully accessible picnic area along the Woodland Path. Many of the coastal promenades, such as those near Southport Pier, also provide smooth surfaces suitable for wheelchairs.
Where can I take my dog for a walk in Sefton?
Sefton offers several dog-friendly walking areas. The expansive Formby Beach and its surrounding pine woodlands are popular for dog walks, though some areas may have restrictions during nesting seasons or for wildlife protection. The Leeds & Liverpool Canal towpaths also provide long, scenic routes suitable for dogs on leads. Always check local signage for specific rules and restrictions.
Are there attractions in Sefton suitable for visiting in bad weather?
While many of Sefton's attractions are outdoors, there are options for inclement weather. Southport Pier, with its covered sections and amusements, can still be enjoyed. The town of Southport itself offers shops, cafes, and indoor attractions. Additionally, the Sefton Park Palm House (though located in Liverpool, it bears the Sefton name) is a beautifully restored Victorian glasshouse that provides a warm, dry environment to explore diverse plant collections.
What are some lesser-known natural spots or "hidden gems" along the Sefton Coast?
Beyond the popular beaches, the Sefton Coastline itself, stretching 22 miles, is a Site of Special Scientific Interest with intertidal sand flats, mudflats, and heathland. Lunt Meadows Nature Reserve, bordering Roughlys Wood, is a significant natural area popular for birdwatching, offering a quieter experience. Sefton Meadows, comprising Jubilee Woods, Roughlys Wood, and Brooms Cross, provides woodland trails and opportunities for spotting barn owls and short-eared owls.
Are there any unique pubs or dining experiences in Sefton?
Yes, The Scotch Piper Inn is a notable historical pub in Sefton, offering a unique experience. Southport, a classic resort town, also features a variety of restaurants and cafes, providing diverse dining options after a day of exploring.
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