The Wirral is a little peninsula that juts into the Irish Sea between Liverpool and north Wales.
But there’s nothing small about this place in Merseyside, with its open wide skies, vast tidal beaches and army of offshore wind turbines.
I visited the small coastal town of Hoylake, which is quiet, understated and charming – the perfect escape from the urban heft of Manchester. Do you fancy a trip there?
I last visited the coastline of north west England in January 2020 before the coronavirus pandemic took hold and we had to stay close to home.
That trip was to the Lancashire seaside town of Lytham St Anne’s. I finally returned in April 2021 to see the sea again and enjoy sunny blue skies.
I walked along this stretch of the Fylde Coast armed with my wide angle lens. The photos I took express a real sense of space and freedom – exactly what I’d been craving for in Manchester.
The past year makes you appreciate the simple things, doesn’t it?
Another coronavirus lockdown has made the world shrink again. In Manchester city centre I’m surrounded by buildings and take only familiar urban walks.
Are you also yearning for open spaces? How about clambering up hills to enjoy impressive views? Here are 15 memorable vistas I’ve collected on my travels. Let’s hope it’s easier to enjoy them again before too long.
Manchester. A large, cosmopolitan city in the north of England with a lot to offer. It’s always been popular with visitors (there are less of them in these unusual times) and the people that live here. Here’s five of the best spots you should definitely see.
Mancunians: Please share your suggestions!
I’d be wrong not to start with my very own neighbourbood, just west of Manchester city centre. It’s set in the canal basin which is populated with colourful narrow boats and even has Roman ruins. Castlefield’s industrial heritage is now overlooked by the shiny new skyscrapers of ‘Manchattan’. It’s a popular spot with Mancunians, especially on hot summer days (yes, we do have them!) TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE
This lofty building is situated in Manchester’s twin city of Salford. The Catholic cathedral is less visited than its Anglican counterpart which is in the centre of Manchester. Its stained glass east window is just remarkable. Restrictions on visiting are currently in place, so you should check before going. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE
An outside space in south Manchester with a beautiful rock garden, wooded walkways and its well-known pathway lined with very tall Lombardy Poplar trees. A relaxing place to wander around which seems far away from the hustle of the city. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE
Here’s a waterfront location that’s been totally reimagined in recent decades. It’s now the home to a swathe of modern glass and steel buildings, not to mention Coronation Street, BBC North and The Imperial War Museum’s northern outlet. The area is also well served with bars and restaurants. My photography tip is to visit for the sunset and stay after dark for bright lights and stunning reflections. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE
This beautiful piece of Victorian Gothic splendour is right in the heart of Manchester and instantly takes you from city bustle to quiet, hushed corridors. It’s one woman’s elaborate memorial to her late husband. It’s currently closed due to the pandemic, so check the website if you’d like to go. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE
Holidays abroad for Britons may be making a tentative comeback as the coronavirus lockdown eases, but many people will opt to stay close to home.
After a busy period of travel, a day trip now seems like an ambitious aim to me. However, the coast is in striking distance from my home city of Manchester by public transport and car. Here’s a look at five of the best places you can visit.
A beautiful stretch of sand within sight of the city of Liverpool, made special by sculptures of male figures dotted along the shoreline, which come and go with the ebb and flow of the tide. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE
A wonderful spot on the edge of the Wirral Peninsula, with north Wales across the water, sweeping sands offering low tide hikes and a marine lake to wander round. It feels like the end of the world. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE
A famous long stretch of the Lancashire coast, encompassing miles of sands and including the genteel seaside town of Lytham St Anne’s and its totemic windmill. An excellent day out in all seasons. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE
A much-loved resort on the Mersey coastline north of Liverpool. The pier, which turns naked and exposed when the tide goes out, is a highlight. Long walks across the sands are a treat any time of the year. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE
Back to the Wirral and what was once Liverpool’s seaside playground. One side of the town sits at the point where the Mersey River meets the sea. Plenty of coastal walks and fish and chip lunches to be had here. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE
