lighthouse

Spurn Point: End of the world

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Spurn Point is an exposed slither of land between the Humber estuary and the North Sea in East Yorkshire.

I’d always noticed this slim spit of territory on maps and was lucky enough to visit on a warm, sunny August day.

It’s a 7.5 mile (12km) hike to the tip of Spurn and back again, taking in beach, heathland and a few buildings including the totemic black and white lighthouse. 

Spurn is peacefully desolate. You can see wildlife, look towards the city of Hull and Grimsby, photograph the landscape or just decompress.

This is a memorable place to wander around – but be aware of tide times and wild weather which could affect your visit. For me it was a touch of sunburn! Would you like to experience wild Spurn?

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Wide open Wirral

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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?

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Azores: Faial

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Faial was one of the four islands of the Azores archipelago I visited recently.

This piece of Portugal sits in the mid-Atlantic, more than 1,500km from the country’s mainland.

Memorable moments of Faial: The captivating volcanic landscape and lighthouse of Capelinhos. The volcano last erupted in 1958. The delightful port of Horta, which sits in the shadow of Mount Pico.

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Northern island hopping

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Cumbria is famous for its lakes and rugged mountains, which bring visitors flocking to the area.

Despite being a coastal county, its seaside is usually overshadowed by the Lake District.

The Furness Peninsula is dominated by the industrial town of Barrow, but also has unspoilt coasts and islands. 

This little expedition was a revelation. If you’re heading to the lakes, consider a little detour.

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Mersey meets the sea

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It didn’t take me long to return to the Wirral Peninsula after being bowled over by the seaside and estuary town of West Kirby. 

On the opposite of this nub of land is the resort of New Brighton, which sits at the mouth of the mighty River Mersey and close to the great city of Liverpool. In Victorian times it was a coastal mecca with a pier, mighty tower and many visitors.

That period magnificence may have disappeared, but this area has engaging views, open seas and industrial colour, fishermen and a landmark lighthouse. It’s a northern spot well worth visiting.

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