Along the North West coast is miles of beautiful shoreline; there are charming seaside towns with old-fashioned piers, vast beaches and of course Blackpool, home to the iconic illuminations. And there are those spots which provide a more rugged and wild coastal experience, perfect for a day trip this autumn.
Formby Beach is probably the go-to destination if you’re looking for pretty sand dunes and woodland walks, yet a few miles further north there’s a quieter alternative with equally gorgeous scenery. Ainsdale Beach has all the things Formby has, just without the crowds.
Ainsdale features a serene pinewood, where you can wander along various trails which weave their way through the towering trees. It’s an atmospheric walk and certainly delivers if you’re after that classic autumnal atmosphere.
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You may even spot a red squirrel or two among the pine trees, so keep your eyes peeled. Eventually the trees clear as the pinewood gives way to rolling, grass-topped sand dunes, which line the shore.
From the top of the dunes there are stunning views out to sea. It’s also an important habitat for a variety of wildlife, including the rare natterjack toad. The dunes gently slope down to the huge, golden beach.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Ainsdale Beach is recognised as one of the best beaches in the UK for extreme kite activities. It has zones set aside for kite buggy and landboard use, where you can glide along the sand as the wind pulls you along.
The beach itself is spacious and perfect for walking and there’s lots of room for kids to run around. There is a dog-free zone 200m either side of the main beach entrance, stretching to the tide line.
There are not many facilities at the beach so it’s worth packing up a picnic and a flask or two. Ainsdale Beach is around an hour and 15 minutes’ drive away from Manchester.
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