
Coastal town in Wirral, Merseyside, England
Photo: Peter Craine, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
West Kirby is on the Wirral Peninsula in Merseyside.
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The island group consists of Hilbre (pronounced HILL-bree) itself, Middle Eye and Little Eye. Walk out to Hilbre or its smaller (and closer) outcrop, Little Eye (be very careful of tides: read guidance on signs near the boathouse, at northern end of the marine lake). A raincoat and wellies or sturdy, waterproof walking boots are recommended for the walk across. To get to the island accepted wisdom is, when the tide is on the ebb to walk from West Kirby from the northern end of the Marine Lake to Little Eye first and then around the "back" of Middle Eye avoiding what can be impassable gullies to the "front" of the islands, and thence to Hilbre itself. Crossing when unsure of the tides can mean, at best, being isolated on the islands until the tide ebbs, or at worst, the risk of being caught between fast flowing tidal gullies. The walker should not be tempted to walk direct to Hilbre from "Red Rocks" at the end of Stanley Rd Hoylake.
The marine lake can be viewed from the lengthy promenade, which has parking, plus benches to enjoy the often busy sailing activity. There is also a walkway around the marine lake, which provides very good views of the summer sunset.
The most northerly point of the Wirral Way.
Thurstaston Visitor Centre
Wirral Country Park features a 12-mile footpath following the line of the old West Kirby to Hooton railway line, offering superb views over the Dee Estuary to Wales. Today it is a must for a family day out and its facilities include the Visitor Centre, Bird Hide, Toilets, Picnic Areas, BBQ area, Café, and Green Shop. The Green Shop contains an information and sales desk where you can pick up leaflets, guides, books of special interest and information. Staff will be happy to assist you. You can access the beautiful beach from the bottom of Station Road or Tinkers Dell Steps.
Visit the museum to see the collection of stone artefacts, dating from 900AD onwards.
Marine Lake
Founded in 1869, this hosted the British Open in 2023.
The Concourse
Indoor swimming.
Pub dating back to 1810.
JD Wetherspoons
Actually better than it used to be, when it was a 'real' pub!
More than 200 years old, the pub is quite small but friendly & interesting.
JD Wetherspoons
Reasonably priced, with pub-chain restaurant.
RNLI-related gifts and merchandise.
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