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Formby Bubble
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Accessing Formby Beach
Lifeboat Road, Formby.
Photo Gallery at Lifeboat Road, click to expand the photos.
Formby Beach, Lifeboat Road, Formby, L37 1LJ
Formby Beach is reached by walking through the scenic pinewoods along a network of paths, some popular and well-trodden, others quieter and more secluded. To make your visit easier, we’ve highlighted the main access routes and included a gallery of stunning photographs for you to enjoy.
There are currently two principal routes:
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Lifeboat Road, L37 1LJ – At the moment, this is the main access point, leading directly through the dunes onto the beach.
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Victoria Road (Squirrel Reserve) – usually a popular route and home to Formby’s red squirrels. However, this entrance is closed until 2026 for a major redevelopment, which includes a new car park and the removal of rubble from the beach.
Please note that the dunes can be steep in places, so suitable footwear is recommended. Keep an eye out along the way and you may even spot one of the area’s famous red squirrels.
Lifeboat Road, Formby.
This map shows Lifeboat Road in Formby. This is a big car parking area with many different walks to the beach. There is seasonal parking charges which are quite extravagant considering there are no toilet facilities but the walks to the beach are very desirable.
Exploring Formby Beach by Train and On Foot
On the map, you’ll notice that both Formby and Freshfield train stations provide direct routes straight to the beach. From Freshfield station, the road leads through the Squirrel Reserve. Please note that vehicle access here is subject to a parking charge, while entry on foot is free.
If you’re unfamiliar with the area, we recommend sticking to the main paths — the reserve is vast, and it’s easy to lose your way among the dunes and woodlands. The map also highlights points of interest, including the remains of the historic lifeboat station and areas where prehistoric footprints can sometimes be seen in the sand.
There are numerous picnic areas throughout the reserve, perfect for pausing to take in the surroundings. And of course, keep an eye out for the red squirrels — with a little luck, you’ll spot plenty during your visit.
Visitor Guide – Getting to Formby
🚆 By Train
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From Formby Station: straight road to the beach.
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From Freshfield Station: direct route through the Squirrel Reserve.(Not Open until Summer 2026)
🚗 Parking
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Freshfield (Squirrel Reserve) – paid parking for vehicles, free entry on foot. (Not open until Summer 2026).
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Lifeboat Road – main beach car park (charges apply).
🚶 Tips
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Stick to main paths if you’re new to the area — the reserve is vast.
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Look out for the lifeboat station ruins and prehistoric footprints on the sands.
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Plenty of picnic spots available.
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Don’t forget to watch for red squirrels in the pinewoods.
National Trust Nature Reserve Pinewoods Formby.
(Please Note: The National Trust Squirrel Reserve is currently closed until 2026 for a major redevelopment of the site.)
This much-loved part of Formby usually attracts thousands of visitors each year, drawn by the chance to see the rare and endangered red squirrels in their natural habitat. The reserve is also home to picnic areas, woodland walks, and scenic paths leading to the beach, along with visitor facilities such as toilets.
For the latest updates and a wealth of information about the site, please visit the official National Trust page:
👉 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/formby
National Trust Red Squirrel Reserve, Formby.
Photo Gallery at the squirrel reserve, click to expand the photos.
Main Access Routes to Formby Beach
The two main roads shown here provide the most direct access to our beautiful beach, whether on foot or by car. Parking is available at both locations, though charges apply for vehicles.
Please note that there are temporary toilet facilities at Lifeboat Road.
SAY YOU SAW IT IN THE FORMBY BUBBLE