Formby beach named among the 40 best beaches in the UK as national rankings recognise Merseyside gem

Jun 26
2 min read

Formby Beach has once again received national recognition after being named one of the 40 best beaches in the UK, standing proudly alongside some of Britain’s most spectacular stretches of coastline.

The latest list, compiled by Time Out, ranked Formby Beach 39th in the country, making it one of just two beaches in the North West to feature. Joining Formby on the prestigious list is Morecambe Beach, which came in at number 32.

The recognition is particularly notable as several of the region’s best known coastal destinations, including Ainsdale Beach, Lytham St Annes and Blackpool Beach, did not make the top 40 despite their popularity with visitors.

Time Out described Formby as a “glorious, family friendly” beach, highlighting its breathtaking natural landscape, vast golden sands and internationally important sand dune system.

The publication praised the ever changing dunes, which naturally shift by around four metres each year. This constant movement has helped uncover one of Formby’s most fascinating secrets, prehistoric human and animal footprints that are occasionally revealed beneath the sand after periods of erosion, offering a remarkable glimpse into life thousands of years ago.

The guide also highlighted the spectacular views across the Irish Sea and the surrounding National Trust woodland, one of the last remaining strongholds for England’s endangered red squirrels. Visitors can also discover carefully managed walking trails through the pine woods while keeping an eye out for the rare natterjack toad, another species that calls Formby’s protected dunes home.

Unlike many traditional seaside resorts, Formby has retained its natural beauty. There are no amusement arcades, piers or promenades stretching along the shoreline. Instead, visitors are greeted by miles of unspoilt golden sand backed by towering dunes, marram grass and peaceful pine forests, creating one of the most distinctive coastal landscapes in Britain.

The recognition is another reminder that Formby offers something truly unique. Whether people come for a family day on the beach, a peaceful woodland walk, wildlife spotting or to explore its internationally important prehistoric history, the village continues to attract visitors from across the country.

The top three beaches in the UK for 2026 were named as Traeth Llanddwyn (Newborough Beach) in Anglesey, Cuckmere Haven in Sussex and Blackpool Sands in Devon.