wirral walking festival 2019 wirral walking...wirral walking festival 2019 take part in one of the...

WirralWalkingFestival2019

Take part in one of the many walks on

the peninsula in May there’s something

for everyone!

17_WirralWalkingFestival2019.indd 1 26/02/2019 11:14

AccessAble, originally called DisabledGo, was set up in 2000 by Dr. Gregory Burke as a result of his own experiences as a wheelchair user and disabled walker. Gregory was frustrated to find that the best-case scenario when he looked for accessibility information was a few unhelpful words that only resulted in more uncertainty. Working alongside over 100 different disability groups Gregory launched DisabledGo’s first website in 2002. Since then the organisation has grown and developed, continually meeting and

listening to its user community. We can’t be a ‘best kept secret’, we know our work makes a massive difference, and we need to reach more people. The name AccessAble is just one of the ways we are looking to do this, we are a service for every disabled person and carer, regardless of impairment. We also want to help people who face access issues for other reasons.

To find accessibility information for Wirral sites please visit: bit.ly/2HDjREf

Many of the walks in this brochure are accessible to people with limited mobility.

However it is recommended that you check with the walk organiser for each event if you have specific requirements including wheelchair access or are unable to step over stiles. In many cases the walk route can be adapted to provide access for all.

Also, if you are unable to attend the walk at the times shown, again please contact the walk leader who will be able to advise of alternative meeting points for you to join the walk at a different location later on.

Dogs are welcome on all walks unless shown. The responsibility for the dog lies with the dog owner who must ensure that their dog remains under close control at all times.

Wirral Walking Festival 2019

Access Policy


Wirral WalkingFestival 2019

Many thanks to Hazel Thomson who has allowed us to use extracts from several of her paintings to illustrate this year’s brochure.

Hazel has been an artist in residence at Wirral Country Park and on Hilbre Island and last year was 2nd place (People’s Choice Award) at the Stockport Open Art Exhibition and 2nd place (Billy Wilson People’s Choice Award) at the Liverpool Art Fair.

To see more of Hazel’s art visit her website at: www.hazelthomsonart.com

Coordinated by Wirral Council’s Parks and Countryside Service, the Wirral Walking Festival highlights the variety of walks that take place on the peninsula in May each year from short strolls around the Secret Gardens of Oxton to long distance treks like the Coast to Coast walk.

Many of the walks are just part of an annual programme like the Buggy Park Fitness Sessions or Walking for Health Walks and both the Ramblers and Wirral Footpaths and Open Spaces Preservation Society offer a full calendar of walks that take place throughout the year.

For those who want an opportunity to go just a little bit faster we include the Run in Wirral programme aimed at beginners and are delighted to reintroduce Nordic walking sessions to the festival this year. We hope that you enjoy the 2019 Wirral Walking Festival and will look at the contributors’ websites and perhaps join one of our local groups and continue to discover the historic towns and villages and diverse landscapes that make the Wirral Peninsula such a wonderful place!

‘great’‘a big thank you’‘very successful’‘really marvellous’Wirral Walking Festival Feedback 2018


A Country Park of Great Worth Wednesday 1st May, 10-11.30am Cost: FREEBooking EssentialWalk Length: 2 miles

Join the Rangers to learn about the creation of Wirral Country Park and the Wirral Way from the old West Kirby to Hooton Railway and the work currently taking place as part of the park’s Master Plan: ‘The Renaissance of a Country Park’.Event Postcode: CH61 0HNContact: [email protected] at: The Wirral Country Park Visitor Centre, Thurstaston

Bluebells Galore! Thursday 2nd May, 2-4pmCost: FREE (donations welcome)Walk length: 2 miles

We will walk through some of the lesser-known parts of Dibbinsdale Local Nature Reserve to admire the displays of spring flowers in this ancient woodland including Bluebells, Wood Anemones, Celandines and many more and will also explore some local history, birds and bees. Sorry, registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH62 7AG Contact: 07855 053210E-mail: [email protected] at: Outside Bromborough Rake Railway Station

From Village to Park to Shore!Wednesday 1st May, 12.45-3.30pmCost: FREEBooking EssentialWalk Length: 5 miles

A sample of the walks which our groups enjoy on the first and third Monday of each month. We will visit Port Sunlight River Park for special views over the River Mersey. We then head north along the shore line, passing through Rock Park on the return journey. Please bring money for refreshments.Event Postcode: CH62 5EQContact: 0151 482 3456Meet at: Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight


Wildflowers in the Woodland Monday 6th May, 10am- 12noonCost: FREE | Walk length: 1.3 miles

Join the Rangers for a walk around Eastham Country Park at this special time of year when wildflowers begin to bloom on the woodland floor. Of particular note are the wonderful displays of native bluebells.Event Postcode: CH62 0BHContact: 0151 327 1007Email: [email protected] at: The Rangers Office, Eastham Country Park

Bromborough Pool: Price’s Garden VillageFriday 3rd May, 2-4pmCost: FREEWalk length: 2 Miles

From Prices Candle Works to the present day this gentle guided walk will look at historic features and will delve into the further past with a visit to the old courthouse site which may be muddy. Find out about the Heritage Lottery funded digs and the Role of Autism Together. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH62 4TTContact: 07587 550 060Email: [email protected] at: Bromborough Pool Garden Centre, 3-4 The Green

BidstonFriday 3rd May, 7.30-9.15pmCost: FREE Walk length: 3.5 miles

From the car park we will walk to Bidston Hill via Wirral Ladies Golf Club. We will then take the higher path to Bidston Hall before returning on the lower path passing Bidston Windmill and returning to the Wirral Hundred. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH43 9LFContact: 0151 605 0591Email: [email protected] Meet at: Townfield Close, off Townfield Lane by the Wirral Hundred Pub

Caldy, Wirral Way & DungeonsSunday 5th May, 10am-3pmCost: FREE | Walk length: 8 Miles

A nice walk with lovely views across the estuary. There are toilets near the start and midway at lunch. Please bring a packed lunch and suitable footwear. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH61 0HNContact: 07939 487686Email: [email protected] at: Wirral Country Park Visitor Centre Car Park, Thurstaston

Coast to Coast: Parkgate to EasthamMonday 6th May, 11.15am-4.15pmCost: FREE | Walk length: 10 miles

We will walk along the Wirral Way to Hadlow Road Station in Willaston for a picnic lunch (please bring your own) before continuing to Raby Mere and Dibbinsdale Local Nature Reserve before finishing at Eastham Country Park. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Grid Reference SJ 280 779Contact: 0151 604 1057Meet at: Mostyn House School, Parkgate


Wirral WalkingFestival 2019

Cost: £5.60 per session | Invigor8 members: FREE

Looking to get back in shape, make new friends and get fit at the same time? Have a go today! We cater for all levels of fitness and offer a choice of times and locations to suit - plus, no babysitter needed! Assistance dogs only.

Ashton ParkMondays & Wednesdays 10.30-11.30amMeet at the tennis courts, Upper Park. (except Bank Holidays)

The Oval Leisure CentreThursdays 1-2pmMeet at main entrance.

Run in Wirral

FrankbyThursdays, 5.30pmAbsolute beginners. Phone for location

Birkenhead ParkSaturdays, 9.45amMeet at the Visitor Centre

West Kirby Concourse Sundays, 8.30am longer runs – 10K plus as 2 groups – faster and slower group.

Cost:£4 per session | Invigor8 members: FREE

Ideal for anyone who would love to start running and wants some support and encouragement. Qualified run leaders will motivate and help you start your running journey off. We know that most people are very nervous when starting out but don’t worry as the group have all been there. We also understand that people have busy lives and everyone can dip in and out. You don’t need any special equipment at this stage - just turn up dressed ready to exercise, with your trainers on and you might want to bring a small bottle of water. Assistance dogs only.

Buggy Park Fitness

West Kirby ConcourseMondays & Wednesdays, 6.30pmCouch 2 5k as well as usual session(except Bank Holidays)

West Kirby ConcourseTuesdays & Thursdays, 9.30am

The OvalWednesdays, 6.15pm

Contact: Fiona Hanik 07769 674 718 | E-mail: [email protected]


ParkgateTuesday 7th May, 7.30-9.15pmCost: FREE | Walk length: 3.5 miles

A flat, easy walk following roads, paths and part of the Wirral Way. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH64 6QJContact: 0151 605 0591Email: [email protected] at; The Old Quay Car Park

Bats in Brotherton ParkTuesday 7th May, 8.45-10.45pmCost: FREE | Walk length: 1.5 milesBooking essential

Join the Ranger for a walk around Dibbinsdale Local Nature Reserve looking and listening for the bats that live in and around the valley. There are some hills and sturdy footwear is recommended. Children are welcome but must be well supervised. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH62 2BJContact: 0151 334 9851Email: [email protected] at: The Rangers Office, Dibbinsdale Local Nature Reserve

History WalkFriday 10th May, 10am-12.30pmCost: FREE Walk length: 2 miles

Join the Rangers and Friends of Dibbinsdale for a walk around the reserve looking at the ancient and recent history of this hidden gem. There are some steep hills and steps along the route. Dogs must be kept under control at all times.Event Postcode: CH62 2BJContact: 0151 327 5923Email: [email protected] at: The Rangers Office, Dibbinsdale Local Nature Reserve

MeolsFriday 10th May, 7.30-9.15pmCost: FREE Walk length: 4 Miles

This circular walk takes us via Dovepoint Road to the prom and heading south west to King’s Gap and along the coast to Red Rocks. Return is via Stanley Road and the Green Lodge back to the station with no ascent involved. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Grid Reference: SJ 233 897Contact: 0151 605 0591Email: [email protected] Meet at: Meols Station Car Park

Red Rocks Evening WalkFriday 10th May, 7.30-9.30pmCost: £6 adult (CWT non-member)£5 adult (CWT member), children freeWalk length: 2 kilometresBooking essential, please go to:www.cheshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/events

Join members of Cheshire Wildlife Trust on an evening walk at Red Rocks with a chance to listen out for singing Natterjack Toads. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH47 1HNContact: 019488 20728Email: [email protected] Meet at: Stanley Road, Hoylake


The Secret Gardens of Oxton Sunday 12th May | 10am-5pmCost: £6 (if purchased before the event) £8 (purchased on the day)

Tickets on sale at various locations in Wirral from early April, or online from the Oxton Society website theoxtonsociety.co.uk

Oxton History Walk (West)Saturday 11th May, 11am-12.45pmCost: FREEWalk length: 1.5 milesBooking essential

A guided history walk around Oxton Village exploring its development from its early agricultural origins to the place it is today and the events and characters who helped to shape it. This walk includes Village Road, Bidston Road and Wellington Road.Event Grid Postcode: CH43 5SFContact: 0151 652 [email protected] at: Centre of Oxton Village adjacent to Home Cafe

Heswall Dales &Dungeon WoodlandSunday 12th May, 10.30am-1.30pmCost: FREEWalk length: 5 miles

Join the Rangers for a walk that takes in the Dungeon Woodland, Heswall Dales, the Dee Estuary shoreline and the dramatic clay cliffs at Thurstaston. There are steep hills, steps and uneven ground along the route and it may be muddy so sturdy footwear is essential. Dogs must be kept under control at all times.Event Postcode: CH61 0HNContact: 0151 327 1007Mobile: 0776 747 4478Email: [email protected] at: Wirral Country Park Visitor Centre, Thurstaston


SpitalTuesday 14th May, 7.30-9.15pmCost: FREE Walk length: 4 Miles

A circular walk starting from the station, through Brotherton Park and Spital Dam towards Bebington Village along the disused Lever Railway Line by the back of the Croft Retail Park before crossing the A41 and back through Brotherton Park. You may wish to bring a torch for the short tunnel section! Registered assistance dogs only.Event Grid Reference: SJ339 829Contact: 0151 605 0591Email: [email protected] Meet at: Spital Station Car Park

The Ron Williams Memorial WalkWednesday 15th May, 10.30am-3pmCost: FREE Walk length: 6.5 miles

An annual walk covering routes Ron Williams made popular during his time as a Walk Leader for Walking for Health. The walk starts and finishes at Arrowe Country Park taking in Irby, Thurstaston Common and Royden Park where there will be a stop for lunch (toilets available) before returning to Arrowe Country Park. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH49 5LWContact: 07803 460 449Email: [email protected] at: The Redrooms Café, Arrowe Park Rd

Oxton History Walk (East)Wednesday 15th May, 11am-12.45pmCost: FREE | Walk length: 1.5 milesBooking essential

A guided history walk around Oxton Village exploring its development from its early agricultural origins to the place it is today and the events and characters who helped to shape it. Includes Fairview Rd, South Bank and Arno Rd. Parts are on unmade roads.Event Grid Postcode: CH43 5SFContact: 0151 652 [email protected] at: Centre of Oxton Village adjacent to Home Cafe

Past, Present & Future at River ParkFriday 17th May, 1.30-3pmCost: FREE |Walk length: 2 milesBooking essential

Discover this new park, reclaimed from a landfill site; and the future with Heritage Lottery funded Heritage centre, staff & local archaeology. The park has woodlands, wetlands and amazing views of Wirral, north Wales and the Liverpool skyline. This walk is on surfaced paths with some slopes. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Grid Postcode: CH62 4LNContact: 07587 550 [email protected] at: Port Sunlight River Park, Dock Road North, New Ferry


Cestrian Ramblers(Chester)If you enjoy hiking and would like to share your day with others, come and join our friendly group of like-minded people. Based in Chester, we attract members from all around the region including Wirral, North Wales and Cheshire.

We have a full day walk every Sunday, two Thursday walks each month (one with a pub lunch) and evening walks during the summer. Special interest, slower walks are occasionally organised to observe flora and fauna. As part of the 2019 Wirral Walking Festival, we’d be delighted to invite members of the public to join us on our 2-hour walk:

Willaston WanderWednesday 8th May, 7-9pmCost: FREE (bring some money for a drink afterwards)Walk length: 3.75 milesBooking essential

Mostly flat through woodlands and fields with some country lanes. Walking boots recommended. Join us for a drink and chat afterwards at the Pollard Inn. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH64 2XRContact: 0151 336 5927Email: [email protected] at: The Green in the centre of Willaston Village

Check out our website for our programme of walks, all our social activities and further information of our group: [email protected]


Willaston Bluebell WalkFriday 17th May, 1.50-5pmCost: FREE Walk length: 6 milesBooking essential

After leaving the village, the route mainly follows bridleways and footpaths through fields and bluebell woods towards Raby. It returns via the Wirral Way. Good footwear is required (preferably boots). Please bring your own refreshments. There are toilets at the station and the cafe may be open. Event Grid Reference: SJ 330 773Contact: 0151 327 4125 (please announce yourself as ‘Wirral Festival’)Email: [email protected] at: Hadlow Road Station, Willaston

Thor’s Rocks: Geology at ThurstastonSaturday 18th May, 2-4pmCost: FREE | Walk length: 3 kilometresBooking essential - please go to:www.cheshirewildlifetrust.org.uk/events

We will climb to the viewpoint on top of the hill in order to look at the overall impact of the underlying geology on the scenery around the Dee Estuary. We will then tour Thurstaston Common looking at various outcrops of red sandstone. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Grid Reference: SJ 246 846Contact: 019488 20728Email: [email protected] Meet at: Thurstaston Hill Car Park, Telegraph Road, near to the Cottage Loaf Pub

Heswall DalesFriday 17th May, 7.30-9.15pmCost: FREE | Walk length: 4 Miles

We meet at the entrance to the Dales in Oldfield Road, past Dale Farm down through the Dales to Pipers Lane and onto the Wirral Way near to Sheldrakes Restaurant. We go up through the Dungeons and back to Oldfield Road. This walk is mostly flat except for the stepped climb at the Dungeons. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH60 6SNContact: 0151 605 0591Email: [email protected] Meet at: Oldfield Road, Heswall

BrimstageSunday 19th May, 10am-2pmCost: FREE | Walk length: 7 Miles

A lovely, easy walk from the famous Claremont Farm in Clatterbridge, across farmland and tracks. Suitable footwear and packed lunch required. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH63 4JBContact: 0759 453 486Email: [email protected] Meet at: Claremont Farm Shop (park on road outside)


Health WalksHealth walks are FREE short, friendly, weekly walks for all, especially those new to walking. Meet new people and enjoy the beauty of Wirral with our trained walk leaders.

There’s no need to book but please arrive 10 minutes early on your first walk to register. You need comfy shoes and water if it is hot. These walks continue throughout the year and additional locations may be available. Sorry, registered assistance dogs only unless stated. For current walks, please go to: www.walkingforhealth.org.ukWirral: Walk On - your local Health Walk scheme

Bromborough LibraryMondays, 10.30am (not bank holidays)Some inclines and uneven surfaces on various routes to Dibbinsdale or Eastham Country Park.Meet at: Bromborough Library, Allport Rd

Birkenhead ParkMondays, 11amParticularly suitable for beginners.Meet at: the Visitor Centre

Wallasey Village LibraryMondays, 11am (not bank holidays)A short walk along pavements avoiding steep inclines and accessible for all with views of the coastMeet at: Wallasey Village Library, St. George’s Road

West KirbyMondays, 12noon (not bank holidays)This walk is not suitable for beginners.Meet at: Concourse Leisure Centre, West Kirby

Arrowe Country ParkTuesdays, 10.30amA faster walk of up to 3 miles. Meet at: Red Rooms, Arrowe Country Park

WarrensFirst and third Tuesdays each month, 11amAn easy walk around Arrowe Country Park.Good footwear advisable.Meet at: The Warrens Medical Centre, Arrowe Park Road

Port Sunlight River ParkTuesdays, 10.30amA choice of walks from 1-2 miles with views of Wirral and the Liverpool skyline. The longer route has some inclines.Meet at: Port Sunlight River Park Car Park, off Dock Road North, Bromborough

Joining Forces Short Health WalkTuesday 14th May,11.15am–12.30pmCost: FREE | Walk Length: 2.5 milesBooking Essential

Our Joining Forces Project offers activities to veterans aged 65 and over.Three twenty minute routes around Port Sunlight Village, which contains a Grade I Listed war memorial. Please bring money for refreshments. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH62 4UQContact 0151 482 3456Meet at: outside the Bridge Inn, Bolton Road, Bebington


WallaseyTuesday evenings, 7.15pm.Particularly suitable for beginners.Meet at: Grove Road Station

Wallasey Village LibraryWednesdays, 11amA short walk along pavements avoiding steep inclines and accessible for all with views of the coast.Meet at: Wallasey Village Library, St. George’s Rd

Port SunlightWednesdays, 11amParticularly suitable for beginners.Meet at: Port Sunlight Station

West KirbyWednesdays, 12noon.Particularly suitable for beginners.Meet at: Wirral Sailing Centre

Eastham Country ParkWednesdays, 1.30pmSuperb views across the River Mersey. Meet at: The Visitor Centre

Port Sunlight River ParkWednesdays, 5.30pmA choice of walks from 1-2 miles with views of Wirral and the Liverpool skyline. The longer route has some inclinesMeet at: Port Sunlight River Park Car Park, off Dock Road North, Bromborough

Pensby LibraryFirst & third Thursdays each month, 2.30pmWith a choice of two routes returning to the library for a cuppa and a chat!Meet at: Pensby Library, Pensby Road

Commonfield Road SurgeryThursdays, 12noonA short walk around Arrowe Country Park or Woodchurch Meet at: Commonfield Road Surgery

Royden ParkThursdays, 2.30pmA longer than usual walk – not suitable for beginnersMeet at: Royden Park Car Park

Wallasey Village LibraryFridays, 11amA short walk along pavements avoiding steep inclines and accessible for all with views of the coast.Meet at: Wallasey Village Library, St. George’s Road

West Kirby MacMillanFridays, 12noonA short walk especially for beginners or people in recovery, with coastal and easy access along the Wirral Way.Meet at: West Kirby Concourse

Birkenhead ParkSundays, 11amParticularly suitable for beginners with a choice of longer and shorter routesMeet at: T he Visitor Centre

Health Walk Leader Training, Port Sunlight River ParkFriday 10th May, 9.30am-4pmCost: FREEBooking essential

A fun, active full day’s training to help you to lead health walks in Wirral accreditedby Walking for Health. A packed lunch or money for lunch is needed. Drinks will be provided. Please call for access. Event Postcode: CH62 4TQContact: 07587 550 060Email: [email protected] at: the Heritage Centre (10 mins’ walk from Dock Road car park)


A Tour of Ness Botanic GardensSunday 19th May, 11am-1pmCost: £7.50 | Walk length: 3 miles

A fascinating tour around stunning Ness Botanic Gardens taking in buildings and parts of the garden not normally accessible to visitors. The tour includes a look at some ofthe research projects taking place and thestories behind the place and the plants.Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH64 4AYContact: 0151 795 6300Email: [email protected] at: Ness Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre

Willaston’s Fields and PathsWednesday 22nd May,10.30am-1.30pmCost: FREE Walk length: 3 or 5.25 milesBooking essential

This is a pretty and varied stile-free ‘figure of eight’ walk to the north and west of Willaston village with plenty of local history and points of interest. Walkers can ‘opt out’ after the first 3 mile loop. Please note that this walk can be muddy in places Event Postcode: CH64 2UFContact: 0151 677 4594Email: [email protected] Meet at: Hadlow Road Station Car Park, Willaston

StoretonTuesday 21st May, 7.30-9.15pmCost: FREE | Walk length: 4 Miles

From Marsh Lane we walk south through Storeton Wood and Hancock Wood to Bracken Lane before descending through fields to Brimstage Lane. Here we turn right through fields and pass the cattery to Storeton, returning via Lever Causeway to the start. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Grid Reference: SJ314 853Contact: 0151 605 0591Email: [email protected] Meet at: Top of Marsh Lane, near Storeton Road, Higher Bebington

Williamson WalkSunday 19th May, 11am–12.45pmCost: FREEWalk length: 1.5 milesBooking essential

A guided history walk starting at the Williamson Art Gallery and exploring the development of parts of Claughton and Oxton, its architecture and the lives of some of the people who developed the area or who came to live there. The route includes Caroline Place, Devonshire Place and Alton Rd.Event Grid Postcode: CH43 4UEContact: 0151 652 [email protected] at: Williamson Art Gallery & Museum

Eastham Country Park History WalkSunday 19th May, 1-3pmCost: FREEWalk length: 1.5 miles

Join the Rangers for a walk around Eastham Country Park looking back in time at the history of this unusual and interesting site. Dogs must be kept under control at all times.Event Postcode: CH62 0BHContact: 0151 327 1007Email: [email protected] at: The Rangers Office, Eastham Country Park


Nordic Walking Taster SessionsNordic walking was originally a summer training regime for cross-country skiers. It is based on using specially designed walking poles in a way that harnesses the power of the upper body to propel you forward as you walk.

It’s now a recognised way to turn a walk into whole-body exercise that can be done by anybody, anywhere. Regular Nordic walking can lower your risk of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, asthma, stroke and some cancers. Nordic walking, like any other form of exercise, can also be used as part of an exercise programme to lose weight.

To celebrate the Wirral Walking Festival 2019, you are invited to come along to a free introductory session to learn the basic Nordic Walking technique.

Nordic WalksMonday 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th May, 11.45am startCost: FREEWalk length: 75 minutesBooking essential

The 75 minute session will include an introduction and training as well as a two mile walk, starting and finishing at the Visitor Centre. Sorry, registered assistance dogs only. Places are limited and restricted to one free session per person so booking is essential. Event Postcode: CH61 0HNContact: 07717 39380Email: dancingintherain.gettimely.com/bookMeet at: Wirral Country Park Visitor Centre


Coast to Coast: Parkgate to EasthamMonday 6th May

Willaston Bluebell WalkFriday 17th May

Willaston’s Fields and PathsWednesday 22nd May

Ask the walk leaders about the society, the work that we do and how you can get involved. Alternatively, email [email protected]

The Wirral Footpaths and Open Spaces Preservation SocietyThe Society appeals to all who are interested in the continued enjoyment of the pleasures of the countryside of Wirral to join now. Members are the eyes and ears of the Society, watching constantly for threats to the rural scene. Without a large, keen and active membership, we cannot function satisfactorily. You can help to safeguard the footpaths of Wirral. Take the first step! Join the Society today. Please visit: www.wirralfootpaths.org.uk

Join us on one of our 2019 Wirral Walking Festival walks:

SubscriptionsIndividuals: £4 paCouples / 2 at one address: £6 paGroups / Societies: £5 paLife Membership: £60 Your support of our work will be greatly appreciated

For further information about the society including news, events and for membership application forms please visit: www.wirralfootpaths.org.uk


River Park to Rock ParkFriday 24th May, 1.30-4pm | Cost: FREE Walk length: 3.75 miles

This walk follows the Wirral Circular Trail out of the River Park to Shorefields, down and then up two flights of steps, through Rock Park to the Refreshment Rooms where we’ll stop for a drink and then return. The history of the area will be touched upon during the walk. Surfaced paths throughout. Event Postcode: CH62 4TQContact: 07587 550060Email: [email protected] at: Port Sunlight River Park, Dock Road North

Thornton HoughFriday 24th May, 7.30-9.15pmCost: FREE Walk length: 4 miles

From the village green we head north west past the primary school. We cross the Leverhulme access road and head for Brimstage. From here we return on good paths across fields before passing Thomas’s path and returning to the start on the pavement of Thornton Common Road. Registered assistance dogs onlyEvent Grid Reference: SJ303810Contact: 0151 605 0591Email: [email protected] Meet at: The church opposite the Seven Stars pub

Arno History WalkSaturday 25th May, 11am-12.45pmCost: FREE | Walk length: 1.5 milesBooking essential

A guided walk exploring Arno Hill and the Arno and part of Oxton and how it has developed from its early agricultural origins to the place it is today and the events and characters who helped to shape it. The walk includes Duck Pond Lane, Birch Road and Fairview Road.Event Grid Postcode: CH42 8PQContact: 0151 652 [email protected] at: The noticeboard next to Sainsbury’s petrol station

Sunset Walk to HilbreFriday 24th May, 6.30-9.30pmCost: £5| Walk length: 4 milesBooking essential

Join the Rangers and the Friends of Hilbre for a relaxed evening stroll across the sands to the Hilbre Islands. We’ll stop regularly to learn more about the natural and maritime history of this unique island at the mouth of the dee Estuary, hopefully enjoying a stunning sunset as we return to the mainland. Suitable footwear and clothing essential. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Postcode: CH48 0QAEmail: westkirbyhoylakemeolsparks@ wirral.gov.ukMeet at: Dee lane Slipway, West Kirby


Bats of the River ParkFriday 31st May, 8.45-10.30pmCost: £3 | Walk length: 1.5 milesBooking Essential

See and hear the amazing variety of bats living here. Meet in the car park for a 10 minute walk to the Heritage Centre for the talk. Suitable for accompanied children aged 8 years and over. This walk is part of a Bioblitz wildlife recording weekend. Moth traps mat also be out. Please call to arrange disabled accessEvent Grid Postcode: CH42 4TQContact: 07587 550 060Email: [email protected] at: Port Sunlight River Park, Dock Road North, New Ferry

Wetland Walk at Dibbinsdale LNRMonday 27th May, 12.30-2.30pmCost: FREE | Walk length: 2 milesBooking essential

Join the Rangers for a walk alongside the River Dibbin and explore this rich wetland habitat. Try your hand at pond dipping for a closer look at the aquatic wildlife. There are some steep hills and steps along the route. Dogs must be kept under control at all times.Event Postcode: CH62 2BJContact: 0151 334 9851 / 0776 747 4478Email: [email protected] at: The Rangers Office, Dibbinsdale Local Nature Reserve

Thornton HoughTuesday 28th May, 10am-2pmCost: FREEWalk length: 6 miles

A lovely moderate walk from the village across farmland and tracks. Suitable footwear and packed lunch required. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Grid Reference SJ 303810Contact: 07707 190 567Email: [email protected] at: The Old Smithy, Thornton Hough

Port Sunlight River ParkTuesday 28th May, 7.30-9.15pmCost: FREE Walk length: 4 miles

A circular walk in Port Sunlight River Park. We cross the A41 to Corona Road, over the football fields and descend to Shorefields. In the park we pass the lake with excellent views of the Mersey, Liverpool and the Welsh hills. We return to Port Sunlight via Bolton Road Esat. Take your camera! Registered assistance dogs onlyEvent Postcode: CH62 4UWContact: 0151 605 0591Email: [email protected] at: The Bridge Inn, Port Sunlight Village

West KirbyFriday 31st May, 10.45am-12noonCost: FREE Walk length: 2.5 milesBooking essential

The walk will be made up of three twenty minute routes covering Ashton Park and South Parade as well as surrounding streets. Please bring some money for refreshments.Event Postcode: CH48 4DQContact: 0151 482 3456Meet at: Ashton Park, corner of Westbourne Road and Church Road

Raby to Cherry WoodFriday 31st May, 7.30-9.15pmCost: FREE | Walk length: 4 miles

From the Wheatsheaf we head south along a track that takes us to Cherry Wood and them emerges onto Quarry Road. We then go by track and road; first to the Old Mill and then return passing Roselea Cottage before a pleasant walk up rural School Lane and then across fields to return to Raby. Registered assistance dogs only.Event Grid Reference: SJ312 798Contact: 0151 605 0591Email: [email protected] Meet at: The Wheatsheaf Car Park, Raby


Wirral’s rich and diverse landscape lends itself perfectly for outdoor adventures, and is highly popular with walkers from across the country, and beyond.

We’re known for our fantastic mix of coast and countryside, and we have developed many walking guides below which help you explore these scenic elements of our landscape. From coastal strolls with awe-inspiring views, to countryside walks with miles of unspoilt green land. Walking in Wirral is not to be missed.

www.visitwirral.com/information/download-brochures

Are you ready for Walk to School Week?Join the greatest national Walk to School celebration: 20-24 May 2019!

Living Streets’ Walk to School Week 2019 is a fun walking challenge where pupils and grown-ups around the UK unite for one week of walking to school and enjoying the many benefits that this act brings.

www.livingstreets.org.uk

Wirral Self-Guided Walks

Wirral Council maintains over 1,500 hectares of public open space and parks in the region including country parks, coastal parks, lakes, play areas and gardens. To find out more visit wirral.gov.uk


We are Borough of Culture for Liverpool City Region this year. Check out some of the exciting highlights coming up and be part of it!

imaginewirral.co@imaginewirral#Wirral2019


wirral walking festival 2019 wirral walking...wirral walking festival 2019 take part in one of the...

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