Five great walks around Southport to de-stress

Southport is one of the most picturesque towns in the North West and every summer thousands of people flock to enjoy the town and the surrounding areas.

It’s a great place to come and de-stress, with there many peaceful spots and great walks to make the most of. You can really escape, be in the moment and forget about the stresses and mental health issues many of us have, whether it be anxiety about an upcoming work meeting or something more significant like going through drug rehab and entering recovery.

In fact, many people who are in recovery find themselves along the coast to seek solace and find that tranquility needed to cope.

If you’re visiting the area to enjoy many of the walks and peaceful spots, there are plenty to choose from. Here are five you really mustn’t miss out on…

Southport Pier and Promenade

Start your de-stressing journey with a leisurely walk along Southport Pier, one of the oldest and longest piers in the UK. As you stroll along the pier, enjoy panoramic views of the Irish Sea and Southport’s sandy beaches. After exploring the pier, continue your walk along the picturesque promenade, where you can take in the sea breeze and watch the waves roll in. This scenic coastal walk is perfect for clearing your mind and enjoying the therapeutic effects of being by the sea.

Ainsdale Sand Dunes Nature Reserve

Sand dunes are prominent along this area of the country, and the Ainsdale Sand Dunes Nature Reserve is a great spot to peacefully walk along them. They are home to rare wildlife and plant species and offer a real picturesque surrounding, particularly across the heathland and on to the sandy beaches.

The soothing sound of the wind rustling through the dunes and the waves hitting the shoreline really do immerse you in your surroundings and take you away from any stresses you may have had.

Hesketh Park

Back in Southport, Hesketh Park is a well-kept Victorian park that has lush gardens and plenty of parks to meander around. The lake is a great spot to sit and contemplate, while the botanical gardens are awash with colour and intriguing foliage. It’s a peaceful oasis in the heart of Southport and a must for anyone visiting the town.

Formby Beach and Red Squirrel Reserve

Formby Beach is home to one of England’s last remaining habitats of red squirrels. Another area that provides you with sand dunes, the coastline and woodlands really are stunning. It’s comfortably one of the most beautiful spots in the country, never mind the region and you won’t find anywhere else like it.

If you’re looking to be transported in nature, here’s where you need to visit for a walk.

Rotten Row and Botanic Gardens

Just outside the town centre, Rotten Row is a historic tree-lined avenue that connects Southport’s shopping district with the beautiful Botanic Gardens. It really is the best of Southport and a peaceful escape from the town. The Japanese garden provides a real sensory experience and moving into the botanical gardens, it’s lovely to just sit and watch the world go by, surrounded by nature.