https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-4000887400212447

The North West Coastal Path Wirral section is one of the most varied coastal running routes in the North West of England. Covering the coastline from New Brighton through West Kirby and onwards to Neston on the Welsh border, this route combines historic landmarks, seaside promenades, wildlife-rich beaches, and sections of true trail running.

As part of my challenge to complete the North West Coastal Path section by section, I have been exploring the route, accompanied by my Jack Russell, Austin. The Wirral section was split into two stages:

• New Brighton to West Kirby
• West Kirby to Neston

Together, these sections showcase the changing character of the Wirral coastline, from busy seaside promenades and marinas to isolated beaches and estuary landscapes.

---

North West Coastal Path: New Brighton to West Kirby

Starting the Wirral Coastal Route at New Brighton

The adventure began at New Brighton Merseyrail station, where Austin and I stepped off ready to continue my North West Coastal Path journey. There was no need for extensive route checking; we simply headed towards the seafront and began an easy jog towards the coast.

Choosing the starting point for the Wirral section required some consideration. I had debated beginning at Seacombe or even Bromborough, as the exact transition between the Liverpool waterfront, the River Mersey and the recognised coastal path is open to interpretation. Having started the Liverpool section at the Liver Buildings, New Brighton felt like the natural counterpart directly across the river.

The morning was bright, the promenade was wide and inviting, and confidence was high. Perhaps too high. The run began with the optimism that comes at the start of any long coastal adventure.

---

New Brighton Promenade and Fort Perch Rock

The broad promenade provides an excellent opening section for runners, allowing you to settle into a comfortable rhythm while enjoying views across the River Mersey.

Looking back across the water, the cranes of Seaforth Docks are visible in the distance, offering a reminder of previous sections of the coastal journey. Closer along the shoreline sits Fort Perch Rock, a historic defensive battery constructed during the late Georgian period to protect Liverpool from naval threats.

Today, Fort Perch Rock has a very different role, hosting tours and cultural events throughout the year.

New Brighton itself reflects the changing fortunes of British seaside towns. Like many traditional coastal resorts, it experienced decline during the downturn of the classic seaside holiday industry. However, it has successfully reinvented itself and now offers plenty of attractions, making it a worthwhile destination before or after completing the route.

---

Leasowe Lighthouse and the Moreton Coastal Defences

Leaving New Brighton behind, the route continues along long stretches of concrete promenade towards Leasowe Lighthouse and the coastal defences at Moreton Beach.

The unusual concrete sea defences are one of the most interesting features of this section. Their angled blocks are designed to reduce the impact of incoming tides, creating a distinctive landscape unlike many other parts of the coastal path.

For runners, however, caution is required. The surfaces can become extremely slippery, particularly where thick green moss has developed. They are fascinating to explore but require careful footing.

Leasowe Lighthouse is a highlight of this section. Built in the eighteenth century, it is the oldest surviving brick-built lighthouse in the United Kingdom and provides an important piece of Wirral maritime history.

Facilities are plentiful along this part of the route, with cafés, shops, toilets and opportunities to refill water bottles available before continuing towards Hoylake.

---

Meols and Hoylake: The Coast Begins to Change

At Meols, the character of the coastline begins to shift. Small boats sit along the shoreline, replacing the more urban waterfront feel of the earlier route.

The path continues towards Hoylake, where runners pass another expansive promenade, the beach and the town’s RNLI lifeboat station.

Hoylake is a useful location for supplies, with shops and cafés available close to the route. However, leaving the coastal path to enter the town adds approximately an extra mile to the journey.

---

Trail Running Towards West Kirby

The final section into West Kirby feels completely different from the earlier promenade miles.

The coastline becomes quieter, the ground becomes more uneven and the experience shifts from urban coastal running to genuine trail running. This was where Austin truly came into his own, with endless distractions from rock pools, sea life and the many small creatures hidden along the shoreline.

The uneven terrain requires more concentration, but the reward is a much more natural coastal experience.

Long before reaching West Kirby, Hilbre Island and its surrounding smaller islands come into view, signalling that the finish line is approaching.

By this stage, the combination of distance and summer heat was beginning to take its toll, but the growing excitement around West Kirby provided plenty of motivation.

Walkers were making their way across the sands towards Hilbre Island, while families and visitors enjoyed the beach.

Austin and I finished the run with a well-earned lunch overlooking the coastline, followed by a walk around West Kirby Marine Lake. Watching the sailing, paddleboarding and other water activities taking place on the Marine Lake was the perfect conclusion to this first Wirral section.

West Kirby was a true delight.

---

North West Coastal Path: West Kirby to Neston

Returning to West Kirby

The second stage of the Wirral coastal route began where the previous run ended: West Kirby.

Travelling by Merseyrail, I returned to the marina and picked up the trail again. West Kirby was as busy as ever, with visitors enjoying the beach, sunshine and the famous tidal walk towards Hilbre Island.

The town is an ideal starting point, with plenty of cafés, shops and facilities available. However, Austin and I were already prepared with water and a packed lunch, although my well-used running rucksack was beginning to show the mileage of the journey.

Marine Lake was alive with activity, with paddleboarders, small boats and other water sports creating a lively atmosphere before the route moved away from the crowds.

---

Joining the Wirral Way

The coastal path is clearly signposted from West Kirby, passing a small boatyard before continuing through residential areas and joining the Wirral Way.

The Wirral Way is a 12-mile, traffic-free route running from West Kirby to Hooton along a former railway line. It is exceptionally well maintained and provides an excellent alternative route for walkers, runners and cyclists.

For sections of the North West Coastal Path, the Wirral Way provides a practical option, particularly when coastal conditions become challenging.

The route initially offers separate sections for cyclists and pedestrians. Both are accessible, although the narrower pedestrian route provides more shade during warmer weather.

---

Thurstaston Visitor Centre and Country Park

A welcome stopping point along the route is Thurstaston Visitor Centre.

The centre provides:

• Public toilets
• Café facilities
• Water refill opportunities
• Parking
• Open recreational space

This makes it an excellent meeting point for anyone completing shorter sections or travelling with family and friends who want activities while the run takes place.

The surrounding area has a relaxed country park atmosphere, with grassy areas, picnic spots, barbecues and plenty of outdoor activity. It is a classic British summer scene, complete with a peaceful duck pond.

---

Thurstaston Beach: A True Coastal Trail Experience

From Thurstaston, runners can choose between continuing along the headland or descending towards Thurstaston Beach.

We chose to remain on the higher route, having previously explored the beach section. However, Thurstaston Beach deserves attention in its own right.

The beach is an unspoilt combination of sand and shingle, backed by impressive clay cliffs. Wooden steps provide access down to the shoreline, making it accessible for visitors and dogs.

For trail runners, this is a beautiful section, with interesting rock formations and plenty to explore. However, maintaining pace can be difficult. The beach has a habit of encouraging visitors to slow down and search through the pebbles for unusual markings and treasures.

---

Heswall, Parkgate and the Remote Wirral Coast

Continuing inland slightly, the route passes through Heswall Fields, offering views towards the town of Heswall.

Heswall provides useful facilities, including cafés, shops and supermarkets for anyone requiring supplies.

Beyond Heswall, the landscape becomes much more remote. The beaches become quieter and the terrain increasingly challenging.

Attempting to remain on the beach proved difficult, as sections of soft mud made running almost impossible. Eventually, returning to the Wirral Way provided a faster and more practical route towards Parkgate.

This section highlights the importance of understanding tides and coastal conditions when planning the North West Coastal Path.

---

Finishing at Neston

The final approach towards Neston is straightforward, with clear signage and well-maintained paths.

Neston provides an excellent endpoint, offering cafés, shops, supermarkets and transport connections.

From here, the return journey to Liverpool is simple, with train connections available via Bidston and the Merseyrail network.

---

Final Thoughts: Running the Wirral Section of the North West Coastal Path

The Wirral section of the North West Coastal Path offers one of the most varied coastal running experiences in the region.

From the historic waterfront of New Brighton, past lighthouses and seaside promenades, through West Kirby’s vibrant Marine Lake, and onwards to the quieter landscapes around Thurstaston, Heswall, Parkgate and Neston, the route constantly changes character.

For runners, walkers and dog owners, this is a rewarding section of the North West Coastal Path. It combines accessibility with adventure, providing everything from easy promenade miles to challenging coastal trail terrain.

And for Austin and me, it provided another memorable chapter in our journey along the North West coastline.

This article contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase — at no extra cost to you.