Best beaches to visit in the North West

The scorching weather we've endured this summer has been somewhat a lovely, unexpected surprise and it has sent us Brits into a frenzy. Instead of being on guard waiting for the rain to hit whilst enjoying a summer picnic, this year we’ve been able to relax and soak up the sun without thinking about an umbrella.

So much so has been the length of sunny spells that some are moaning that the hot weather has been too much! Having said that, with the sun almost becoming a daily guarantee, it’s a great opportunity to visit some of the UK’s best beaches with family or friends. What better way is there to enjoy the sunshine than with a long weekend at the beach?

In this post, we’ll be specifically looking at beaches in North West of England and North Wales. The beaches listed are within easy reach of our car hire branches in Liverpool and Manchester. So, what are you waiting for? Get a car hire, fill it with buckets, spades and bats and balls and visit one of these beaches:

Formby

When the temperatures rise, Formby beach is often the go-to place for those in North West England. The beach is vast and there is plenty of space meaning that even on the busiest of days, there is an air of space.

This glorious beach boasts coastal views of the Irish Sea that have to be seen to be believed. What’s more, surrounding the dramatic sand dunes are coastal pinewoods that are home to rare wildlife like the endangered red squirrel.

Crosby

Crosby might not be the most beautiful beach, but since artist Antony Gormley installed one hundred life-size iron men on the beach in 2005, it has become a cultured tourist attraction. The statues add a unique character to the coastline and there are plenty of walks with views of the Wirral and North Wales.

Llandudno

This one is around 60 miles from Liverpool but is a classic coastal town in North Wales that gets families returning time after time. Llandudno has two award-winning beaches: one on the north shore with a pier and pastel coloured buildings and the quieter sand duned beach on the west. Take your pick! The distance makes it the perfect location for a long weekend away.

Blackpool beach

Blackpool is notoriously one of Britain’s most loved seaside resorts. Blackpool has everything to cater for a classic weekend by the seas. The beach was recently awarded a Blue Flag by Keep Britain Tody, recognising the quality of the beach.

Once the arcades and amusements have become too much, Blackpool’s south beach is a perfect retreat for a picnic blanket and fish and chips.

Arnside

This beach isn’t one for those looking for a swim and play in the sand. This stretch of coast has quicksand areas and the tides can be notoriously strong. But what this beach does offer is notoriously stunning views.

Found just north of Morecambe, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty provides views of Morecambe Bay and the Lake District. Visitors come from around the country to enjoy the famously spectacular sunset over the bay. There is also a pier and range of quaint shops, cafes and pubs to keep you busy.

Car hire for UK beach trips

Visiting the UK and want to experience our coast or do you live in the UK and want a car hire for a trip to the coast? Green Motion can help. With 20 branches spread across the country, you’re never too far from one of our branches. Take a look UK car hire locations here