One of my favourite things about Wirral is that you don’t have to spend the earth to have a memorable day out. Here are my favourite free things to do in Wirral.
I feel so lucky that I got to grow up in Wirral and spend days visiting the beaches, biking along the coastline, popping over to Liverpool, visiting local art galleries, and walking to Hilbre Island. If you are looking for some fun and free things to do in Wirral, here are some ideas to get you started.
This is my list of free things to do in Wirral. For a more comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Wirral, including paid attractions, visit my things to do in Wirral, the ultimate locals guide, here.
1. Visit the Williamson Art Gallery & Museum
The Williamson Art Gallery & Museum opened to the public in 1928, thanks to the generosity of John and Patrick Williamson, who funded the museum through Birkenhead Borough Council.
The gallery boasts an extensive collection of artworks, ceramics, sculptures, and maritime history. They offer free admission to all of their exhibitions at the Williamson Art Gallery & Museum so you can experience the joy of art without worrying about the cost.
The Williamson Art Gallery & Museum, Slatey Rd, Oxton, Birkenhead, Prenton CH43 4UE
2. Find fairies and plenty of magic at Vale Park
Vale Park is a lovely place to spend an hour or two, with views of the River Mersey and lots of space to play and enjoy nature. A unique feature of this park is the fairy village. My son loves to create stories about the fairies that live here and even tries to spot them hidden amongst the trees.
During the summer, there is a bandstand that hosts events such as music and outdoor theatre, making it an excellent spot for children. We will often wander around this park after a visit to New Brighton.
Vale Park, New Brighton, Wallasey CH45
3. Watch the sunset at Wirral Country Park
Wirral Country Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Wirral. It’s one of our favourite spots! You can stroll on Thurstaston Beach or enjoy a delicious barbecue or picnic in one of the designated areas.
Although it can get busy during peak times, the beach is never overly crowded as it’s less accessible than other Wirral beaches. We promise watching the sunset here is just incredible! The park also offers access to the Wirral Way, a 12-mile-long walking or cycle route with separate horse riding trails.
https://www.high-endrolex.com/43
Wirral Country Park, Station Rd, Thurstaston, Wirral CH61 0HN
4. Feed the animals at Tam O’Shanter Farm
Tam O’Shanter Farm is a free and educational experience for kids and adults. It’s located on Bidston Hill, which is also a beautiful walking area.
Tam O’Shanter is dedicated to promoting engagement with nature and enhancing mental and physical well-being through exercise, horticulture, outdoor activities, nature trails, scavenger hunts, regular events, and more.
The farm provides education and volunteering opportunities for all ages, and there’s even a play area and cafe for families to enjoy. While the farm is free to enter, any donations to support this fantastic place are greatly appreciated, so if you visit, please donate whatever you can.
Tam O’Shanter, Boundary Rd, Bidston, Birkenhead, Prenton CH43 7PD
5. Walk or cycle the Wirral Way
The Wirral Way is a path on an old railway track from West Kirby to Hooton in Wirral. It offers superb views over the Dee Estuary to Wales. Initially, the railway formed a circuit of Wirral. It’s great to cycle with children away from busy roads. Or, walk and stop for a picnic, spot wildlife and admire views.
6. Walk to Red Rocks
Red Rocks, located west of Hoylake on the Wirral Peninsula, is a hidden gem that boasts SSSI status and an area of sand dunes and reed beds. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely walk, wildlife spotting, and sunset watching.
Despite being one of my favourite places to visit in Wirral, Red Rocks is often overlooked. Most people tend to flock to West Kirby beach or Hoylake promenade instead. As kids, my cousins and I would spend hours playing at Red Rocks, which is accessible from both West Kirby and Hoylake.
Red Rocks Nature Reserve, Stanley Rd, Hoylake, Wirral CH47 1HZ
7. Save up your pennies for the arcades at New Brighton
I have been visiting New Brighton for beach days and fun at the arcades for many years, even before it received a £60 million redevelopment scheme. It now boasts a Travelodge hotel, several restaurants, Light Cinema and Caffe Cream Ice Cream Parlour and Coffee Shop, and Championship Adventure Golf at Marine Point.
In addition, the Floral Pavilion Theatre and Conference Centre is also located there, making it a perfect destination for a family day out. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a lovely day out here. You can enjoy the beach, save up pennies for the arcades, bike ride, picnic on the grass dips and loads more. These little things I remember from childhood make for a fun and memorable day out.
The Promenade New Brighton, Ian Fraser Walk, New Brighton, Wallasey CH45 2NW
8. Jump on board the miniature railway at Royden Park
Royden Park is a really special place. The parkland spans 250 acres of land. You can find woodlands, meadows, fields and even a lake there. If you’re looking for a nice spot to have a picnic, there are large open spaces with picnic tables that don’t lead onto roads. And if you’re up for some nostalgic fun, you should check out the miniature railway run by volunteers. It’s a fun experience for all ages, and all they ask for is a small donation before hopping on board.
Royden Park, Hill Bark Rd, Frankby, Birkenhead, Wirral CH48 1NP
9. Crabbing at Marine Lake, West Kirby
West Kirby Marine Lake is a unique spot that covers 52 acres and has a lovely promenade. You can take part in a variety of activities there, such as sailing, kayaking, birdwatching, and picnicking. We enjoy walking around the promenade the most, particularly when the sun sets or spending a leisurely afternoon crabbing with the kids.
For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of benches where you can relax, devour fish and chips and appreciate the breathtaking views of North Wales in the distance.
West Kirby Marine Lake, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 0QG
10. Walk to Hilbre Island
One of my favourite free things to do in Wirral, which I always urge visiting friends and family to do, is walk to Hilbre Island! You can find the Hilbre Islands Local Nature Reserve in the Dee Estuary, an archipelago of three islands.
It’s an easy walking route that is just so rewarding. Once you reach the island, there’s plenty to see, including the remains of the Lifeboat Station and Telegraph Station and breathtaking views of North Wales. I suggest packing a picnic and spending the whole day there. You might even spot a seal or two!
Hilbre Island, Wirral CH47 1HZ
So these are my favourite free things to do in Wirral. Of course, there are many more, but these are a great starting point for exploring Wirral further. I hope this has inspired you to have a less costly day out! For ideas for family days out in Wirral, click here.
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