Nature & Wildlife

An area of stunning natural beauty

Despite containing urban and industrial areas, the Wirral still has picturesque villages, sandy beaches, large areas of land owned by the National Trust as well as views across the two estuaries and out into the Irish Sea.

West Kirby & Hilbre Island

  • Discover the magical nature reserve at the mouth of the estuary
    Atlantic grey seals spraul out on the nearby sandbanks at low tide and can be seen swimming around the island at other times

  • When the tide is out, you can walk across to the Island
    ideal for people who enjoy exploring new areas, or for nature lovers

  • West Kirby Marine Lake
    Always great for a walk around, with fantastic views of the estuary.

Ness Botanical Gardens

  • Award-winning gardens founded in 1898.
    Ness is open all year round with a huge variety of seasonal flowers, shrubs and trees.

  • Ness events include guided tours and outdoor concerts
    There are also woodcarving and floristry classes.

  • Don't miss the Garden Kitchen Cafe for a light bite or sweet treat.
    I used to work in the Cafe, so can safely assure you the scones are incredible!
a brief glimpse at the stunning Ness Botanic Gardens, with a cute little bridge over a flowing stream

Thurstaston Common

  • Discover the sandstone tracks and woodland paths.
    A local nature reserve and a fantastic hill with views over the Dee Estuary to Wales. Great variety of wildlife, especially birds.

  • Home to Thor's Stone - the basis for the village name
    A large red sandstone outcrop, shrouded in Viking legend. I used to climb it all the time as a kid!

  • Great walking trails
    Popular with with dog-walkers, bird-watchers and families all year round.
Thor's Stone, a sandstone outcrop and the basis for the name of the village of Thurstaston