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Merseyside might be known for its vibrant cities and iconic landmarks, but it’s also home to beautiful beaches, rivers, and parks where dogs can enjoy a splash. Whether your pup prefers the beach or a quiet lake, Merseyside offers scenic spots perfect for a day of swimming and fun. Here are the top five dog-friendly swimming spots in Merseyside for a refreshing escape.
1. Formby Beach
Formby Beach is one of Merseyside’s most popular dog-friendly beaches, with its wide sandy shores and gentle waves. Dogs are welcome year-round, so they can enjoy a swim in the shallow sea and explore the vast sand dunes. This beach, managed by the National Trust, offers plenty of space for dogs to run freely, making it ideal for pups with lots of energy.
Surrounded by beautiful pinewoods and trails, Formby Beach offers a great blend of coastal and woodland scenery for a full day of adventure with your dog.
Nearby Amenities: Parking is available, along with restrooms, picnic areas, and nearby cafes that welcome dogs.
Google Maps Address: Formby Beach
2. Otterspool Promenade
Otterspool Promenade, along the River Mersey, offers scenic riverside views and a peaceful setting for dog-friendly swimming. Certain areas along the promenade provide safe spots where dogs can paddle in the river and cool off on warmer days. The grassy areas and wide pathways make it an excellent spot for a relaxed stroll with beautiful views of the river.
With picnic areas and plenty of open space, Otterspool is ideal for a leisurely day out, especially for dogs who enjoy a combination of water and open fields.
Nearby Amenities: There is ample parking, restrooms, picnic spots, and a café with dog-friendly seating nearby.
Google Maps Address: Otterspool Promenade
3. Crosby Beach
Famous for Antony Gormley’s “Another Place” sculptures, Crosby Beach is another fantastic spot where dogs can swim and enjoy the sandy shore. Dogs are welcome to play along this unique beach year-round, making it a fun choice for water-loving pups. The sculptures provide an interesting backdrop, and the beach’s wide-open space offers plenty of room for dogs to roam.
The gentle waves make Crosby Beach a safe spot for dogs to paddle, and nearby trails provide additional areas for a scenic walk.
Nearby Amenities: Parking is available along the promenade, with cafes, restrooms, and dog-friendly seating nearby.
Google Maps Address: Crosby Beach
4. Sefton Park
Sefton Park, a beautiful Victorian park in Liverpool, is a favorite for local dog owners, with a lake and several ponds where dogs can cool off in designated areas. The park itself is full of lush greenery, walking paths, and historic features, including the Palm House and picturesque stone bridges. Dogs can splash around in the shallow areas of the ponds, with plenty of space to explore.
Sefton Park’s wide-open fields, wooded areas, and scenic lake make it an ideal spot for a day of outdoor fun with your dog.
Nearby Amenities: On-site parking, a café, restrooms, and picnic areas are available, with dog-friendly seating options nearby.
Google Maps Address: Sefton Park
5. West Kirby Marine Lake
West Kirby Marine Lake, located on the Wirral Peninsula, is a saltwater lake with beautiful views of the Dee Estuary. Certain areas of the lake are dog-friendly, allowing them to swim and enjoy the water while you take in the coastal views. The promenade around the lake provides a scenic walk, and you can even continue out to Hilbre Island during low tide for a unique coastal adventure.
This location combines open water with stunning scenery, perfect for a memorable day by the sea with your dog.
Nearby Amenities: Parking, restrooms, cafes, and picnic areas are available nearby in West Kirby town center.
Google Maps Address: West Kirby Marine Lake
Essentials for a Dog-Friendly Day in Merseyside
To make the most of your day out, remember to bring:
- Training Collar: A training collar from Calmshops keeps your dog secure in open areas.
- Portable Bowl and Fresh Water: Swimming and saltwater can make dogs thirsty, so fresh water is a must.
- Towel and Blanket: A quick dry-off with a towel keeps your dog comfortable, and a blanket makes for a cozy rest spot.
- Dog Rain Coat: Best quality and sizing to be found on Amazon.
Another 5 places to take your dog to swim in Merseyside:
Moreton Beach
Description: Situated on the Wirral Peninsula, Moreton Beach offers a mix of shingle and expansive sands at low tide, providing ample space for dogs to run and swim. The beach is backed by a promenade, making it ideal for leisurely walks.
Amenities: Limited facilities; it's advisable to bring your own provisions.
Meols Beach
Description: Located between Hoylake and Wallasey, Meols Beach features a small stretch of shingle that transforms into a vast expanse of sand and mudflats at low tide. It's popular for activities like kite buggying and sand yachting, and dogs can enjoy the open space.
Amenities: Limited facilities; plan accordingly.
Thurstaston Beach
Description: Set within the Wirral Country Park, Thurstaston Beach offers a mix of sand and shingle, backed by low clay cliffs. The unspoiled environment provides a serene setting for dogs to swim and explore.
Amenities: Nearby visitor center with facilities; check for opening times.
Ainsdale Beach
Description: Situated between Southport and Formby, Ainsdale Beach is a large, soft, sandy beach with a nature reserve and sand dunes. It's a popular spot for dog owners, offering plenty of space for dogs to run and swim.
Amenities: Parking available; check for any seasonal dog restrictions.
Leasowe Bay
Description: At the northern end of the Wirral Peninsula, Leasowe Bay is a wide, clean sandy beach backed by low-lying sand dunes and a hay meadow, offering a natural setting for dogs to enjoy the water.
Amenities: Limited facilities; it's recommended to bring necessary supplies.
Conclusion
From the sandy shores of Formby and Crosby beaches to the peaceful waters of West Kirby Marine Lake, Merseyside offers a fantastic mix of dog-friendly swimming spots. Each location combines natural beauty with ample space for dogs to explore and swim, creating the perfect environment for a memorable day out. Pack your essentials, pick a destination, and dive into Merseyside’s top dog-friendly swimming spots for a refreshing adventure with your furry friend!
