Wirral Country Park offers a tranquil green space along a former railway line with scenic coastal views, supporting a variety of outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.
Wirral Country Park spans approximately 10 miles along the disused railway track between the towns of Heswall and West Kirby on the Wirral Peninsula, Cheshire, England. Established in the early 1970s, it was the first designated country park in Britain. The park follows the route of the former Birkenhead Railway, now transformed into a largely flat, accessible path known as the Wirral Way. The park is best known for its mixed woodland, coastal marshes, and views over the Dee Estuary, providing habitats for diverse bird species including migrating waders and owls. Its gently graded trail attracts walkers, joggers, cyclists, and horse riders alike. Notable landmarks include Thurstaston Hills with panoramic views, the historic New Brighton Lighthouse ruins near West Kirby, and several quaint railway heritage features such as old signal boxes and station platforms. The park draws families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking nature, quiet strolls, and birdwatching opportunities. Throughout the year, seasonal wildflowers paint the meadows and wetlands, while interpretive signs inform visitors about the area's natural and industrial past. The accessibility of the park, combined with its proximity to urban areas, makes Wirral Country Park a valued recreational green corridor.
The Wirral Way – a flat, multi-use trail following the former railway line
Views across the Dee Estuary with excellent birdwatching spots
Thurstaston Hills and Woodland offering panoramic vistas and native trees
Historic railway remnants including old station platforms and signal boxes
A 10-mile heritage trail along the disused railway offering scenic views and easy terrain for all visitors.
Wooded hill area with panoramic views of the Dee Estuary and surrounding countryside.
Important mudflats and salt marsh habitat attracting a variety of migratory and resident bird species.