Formby

Formby is a wild stretch of the Sefton Coast north of Liverpool where a wide sandy beach backs onto some of north-west Europe's most important dunes, home to natterjack toads, and pinewoods that shelter one of England's few remaining red squirrel populations. History shows through if you look: prehistoric human and animal footprints appear on the shore at low tide, and the Asparagus Trail crosses fields that once supplied the Victorian trade. Two natural play trails run through the woods, dogs are welcome under close control, and the Victoria Road dunes have reopened with new pine woodland walks after a major restoration. Reviewers love the clean, spacious beach and the peace of the woods. Tips from visitors: the two small car parks fill quickly on sunny days, so come by Merseyrail, Formby station for the boardwalk at Lifeboat Road or Freshfield for Victoria Road; there are no bins, so take rubbish home; and bring your own food, as only an ice cream van serves the car park in season.