What’s better than walking through vibrant tapestries of red, gold and brown leaves crunching under your feet? Here’s our pick of the best Autumnal walks around Liverpool.
Sefton Park
Arguably the most popular park in Liverpool, playing host to major annual events such as Africa Oye, Sefton Park is a stunning Grade I listed heritage site, steeped in history and beautiful landscapes. You could easily spend a full day there, with something to do for everyone. Why not grab yourself a hot drink from the Aviary Cafe or Lakeside Cafe before setting off on your walk? Tick off the many statues and monuments as you go, and take in the sights of the caves, ponds and waterfalls, such as the iconic Fairy Glen. Don’t forget to take a stroll over to the Palm House, too, where there will likely be something going on that you can check out.
Croxteth Park
Situated at the opposite end of the city, Croxteth Park is another of Liverpool’s biggest outdoor spaces, boasting 500 acres of woodland and wildlife. Take your pick of the many paths and trails, where you might stumble upon horses and cattle. You could make this trip several times and each time have a different experience. Make sure you try out the different drinks and catering vendors; a particular highlight is the hot chocolate from Lola-in-the-Courtyard or Nutella-topped donuts outside of Croxteth Hall.
Calderstones Park
A visit to Calderstones Park in the autumn is an absolute must. Head over to the lake where you can feed the ducks and geese (if it’s not already frozen over, that is!) or take a walk through the Botanical Gardens featuring almost 4,000 species of plants. Take a break from your stroll and cosy up with a book at the Reader Cafe, where they serve up breakfast, lunch and desserts.
Allerton Country Walk
If you fancy a lengthy walk, then definitely try out the Allerton Country Walk. It is around 7 miles long, taking around two to three hours to complete. You might want to begin at Calderstones Park, being sure to take in the incredible features of the park, just a few listed above. From there, the next stop is Allerton Towers, following through to Clarke Gardens, Camp Hill and Woolton Woods. Next up is the hidden gem that is Reynolds Park, home to a walled garden and topiary garden that make for amazing photo opportunities. Finally, you will visit Black Woods and Childwall Woods, the latter of which is a Local Nature Reserve. Check out the full route guide and map here.
Freshfield, Formby
This is a route that can be split into two, or joined together for one longer walk. Beginning at Freshfield Station, the first section is 3 miles long and takes you out to the coast following the Sefton Coastal Path. Absorb the views of the Mersey Estuary, Welsh Mountains and Irish Sea, before heading through the pinewoods where you can keep an eye out for Red Squirrels. The second section is 4.25 miles long and takes you through the countryside via inland Formby. Find the full guide and map here.
Hale Village
Take a round trip from Hale Village that follows the Mersey Way along the shore. Take in the sights of Hale Marsh, which is filled with wildlife, and the decommissioned Hale Head Lighthouse. Continue down the path that runs alongside the shore until you find yourself back in the village.
Festival Gardens
Festival Gardens is arguably the most unique of these spaces, with the addition of oriental gardens and pagodas. It is a tranquil space, set back behind rows and rows of trees. Why not park up in Otterspool and follow the promenade until you find the Festival Gardens.
Georgian Quarter
If the messiness of the countryside isn’t for you, then maybe take a stroll through Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter. Set in the Canning area of the city, on the border of Toxteth and the city centre, the Georgian Quarter is perfect if you’re a lover of 18th Century architecture. The beautiful townhouses that were once home to the city’s wealthiest residents now house some perfect little spots to eat and drink. Just on Hope Street alone, you will find iconic venues such as the Everyman Theatre and the Philharmonic Hall, bookended by The Anglican and Metropolitan Cathedrals. Some hidden gems can also be found if you take the cobbled back streets off Hope Street and Faulkner Street.
Botanic Gardens
Another piece of history lies in the Botanic Gardens in Wavertree, that once played an important role in the recreational and cultural life of Liverpool Residents before World War II, when the great glasshouses were destroyed. There’s still plenty to admire here with the walled garden, the ornamental carpet bedding and the ornamental fountain, summerhouse, fishpond and aviary.