More than just beautiful woods, Formby Pinewoods is a protected haven. Acquired by the National Trust in 1967 through a massive fundraising effort, this large conifer plantation was originally established to stabilise the incredible sand dunes.

Today, dedicated staff and volunteers tirelessly conserve this unique environment, safeguarding rare protected species like the beloved Red Squirrel and the elusive Natterjack Toad. The site is also steeped in local history - from prehistoric footprints found on the shoreline to the fascinating remnants of an asparagus farm that thrived here in the early 1900s!

Formby has good bus and train transport links and three main access points, each with a slightly different feel: Lifeboat Road, the Red Squirrel Reserve (Victoria Road), and Fisherman's Path .

Parking (Free for NT Members - Charges apply otherwise)

• Red Squirrel Reserve (Victoria Road) L37 1XU : First-time visitors, amenities (toilets/picnic area), and easy trail access. Parking located directly within the woods.
• Victoria Road Beach Car Park L37 1YD : Direct beach access via a steep, sandy path (can fill up fast!). Access to the beach via a challenging, steep dune.
• Lifeboat Road Car Park L37 2EB : Most accessible option. Beach access via hardstanding and boardwalk. Great for prams/wheelchairs heading to the sea.
  

Local Tips :

• Arrive early on sunny days - the car parks fill up fast!
• Take the Train (Merseyrail)
  Freshfield Station: Closest to Fisherman's Path and the Red Squirrel Reserve (a pleasant 13-minute walk down Victoria Road). Great for grabbing fish & chips or coffee at The Kiosk Café!
  Formby Station: Best for accessing the quieter Lifeboat Road area (approx. 14-minute walk).

Whether you're after a quick stroll or a challenging hike, there's a route for you. The first three trails start near the Victoria Road car park. Download this map

Red Squirrel Trail (Easy/Pram Accessible)

Wander through the heart of the pinewoods. While red squirrel sightings are rare, this beautiful path is perfect for spotting other wildlife and enjoying the classic Formby pinewoods and Sefton coast scenery. Suitable for prams and wheelchairs (though can be muddy after rain!).

Cornerstone Walk (Easy/Kid-Friendly)

Look for the sign near the toilets at the Red Squirrel Reserve. This lovely forest loop passes a popular woodland play area with stepping stones and walkways. It's mostly accessible, though paths can be rough terrain in parts.

Asparagus Trail (Circular & Historic)

This trail guides you through woodland, grassland, and the dunes, celebrating Formby's 19th-century asparagus farming history. Keep an eye out for fascinating wooden sculptures and signs detailing the area's agricultural past.

Lifeboat Road Exploration (Historic & Accessible)

Head here to discover the fascinating history of 'The Devil’s Hole' (a huge dune blowout possibly caused by WWII bombs!) and the remains of ‘Formby-by-the-Sea’. While the dune trails are challenging, Lifeboat Road offers the easiest hardstanding and boardwalk access to the beach.

Fisherman’s Path (Relaxing Coastal Route)

Starting near Freshfield train station, this gentle path leads you through the woods, past Formby Golf Course, and out toward the tranquil dunes and beach.

Formby to Crosby Beach (The Challenge!)

For the serious walker, join the Sefton Coastal Path for a long, rewarding hike to Crosby Beach to visit the famous Anthony Gormley 'Iron Men' statues. Finish by grabbing the train back to Freshfield!

• Toilets & Ice Cream: Toilets (10 am – 4 pm) are located at the Red Squirrel Reserve car park on Victoria Road. You’ll usually find the all-important ice cream van nearby during peak times!
• Picnic Time: A dedicated picnic area with benches and a sandy spot is near the Red Squirrel Reserve car park. (Please keep dogs on leads and outside the picnic area).

Kids Activities in Formby Pinewoods

• Wildlife Spotting: Bring monkey nuts for squirrels or search for Natterjack Toads (look for info signs!). If late in the day, look for owls or birds of prey.
• Woodland Play: Find the stepping stones and the log xylophone on the Cornerstone Walk.
• Den Building: Get adventurous and build a den out of logs and branches!
• Beach Fun: Head to the beach for sandcastles and a seaside picnic!

• Save on Parking: If driving, become a National Trust member for free parking and entry across the many other fantastic places across North West England and the UK. It's a great way to support conservation efforts! There are two train stations with easy access to the pinewoods and beach too.
• Beat the Rush: Formby is popular, especially when the sun shines! Arrive early to secure a car park space, or opt for the train or the quieter Lifeboat Road area during busy periods.
• Pack a Picnic: Hot food and drink amenities are limited near the pinewoods and and beaches, so pack a great picnic to enjoy a full day of discovery.
• Dogs Welcome: Formby Pinewoods is dog-friendly, but remember to keep them on leads and away from the dedicated picnic areas.
• Watch the Tides: Be aware of the tides if walking far on the beach, and avoid dune edges (they are protected and fragile). At low tide check the shoreline for prehistoric human and animal footprints - and even shipwrecks!.
• Dress for Sand and Mud: Even if the weather is nice, the dune paths and forest trails can be soft, wet, or sandy. Wear appropriate footwear.