Liverpool This Winter: Essential Festive Activities and Seasonal Attractions to Experience

Winter in Liverpool brings a special kind of magic to this vibrant Merseyside city. The iconic waterfront and historic streets transform into a festive wonderland, buzzing with energy and anticipation.

The city lights up with twinkling displays, Christmas markets, and seasonal celebrations. Visitors from all over the UK—and beyond—flock here for the atmosphere.

The Iconic Liver Building

Liverpool offers a winter experience that’s hard to beat. You get world-class attractions, festive events, and plenty of cosy indoor venues to duck into when the weather turns.

From the famous Cavern Club to Royal Albert Dock, the city’s top spots give you a warm refuge from the chill outside. At the same time, they’re packed with culture and stories.

Maybe you’re after festive markets along the Pier Head. Or you want to wander Liverpool’s shopping districts, or tuck into hearty winter fare in a classic pub. The city delivers, no matter what kind of winter trip you’re hoping for.

Liverpool’s centre is compact, so you can easily stroll between attractions. Transport links are solid too, making day trips to nearby spots a breeze.

Winter Weather in Liverpool

Liverpool’s winters are cool and damp, but not as harsh as some other UK cities. Most days hover around 8°C, with a lot of grey skies and the occasional dusting of snow.

Average Temperatures and Forecasts

Daytime temperatures usually sit near 8°C (46°F). At night, it rarely gets much colder than 2-4°C, so while you’ll want a coat, you probably won’t need anything extreme.

Clouds hang over the city about 65% of the time in winter. December might bring a handful of snowy days—four on average—but snow that sticks around is pretty rare.

• Daytime highs: 6-8°C (43-46°F)

• Night-time lows: 2-4°C (36-39°F)

• Lots of cloud cover

• Light rain and drizzle are the norm

The Met Office sometimes issues weather warnings for Merseyside. Usually, these are for rain, ice, and the odd bit of snow when it gets close to freezing.

What to Wear

Layering is the name of the game in Liverpool’s unpredictable winter. A waterproof jacket is a must—rain can show up out of nowhere.

• Waterproof coat with a hood

• Warm jumpers or fleeces for layering

• Sturdy boots with good grip

• Umbrella for sudden showers

• Scarf and gloves for those colder snaps

The damp and humidity often make it feel colder than the thermometer suggests. A medium-weight coat usually does the trick, but having layers means you can adjust as you go.

When it comes to shoes, go for grip and water resistance. Insulated boots aren’t as important as ones that keep your feet dry and steady—slippery pavements are no joke.

Safety Tips for Cold Weather

Ice is probably the biggest winter hazard here, especially in the mornings after rain. Pavements and roads can get slick fast when the temperature drops overnight.

• Check weather warnings before you head out

• Take it slow on icy surfaces

• Keep your phone charged for emergencies

• Carry a small torch—winter days are short

The Irish Sea keeps Liverpool’s weather unpredictable. Sometimes it’ll feel mild, then suddenly a front rolls in and everything changes. Always good to stay flexible.

Public transport might slow down or get delayed during severe weather. Plan a bit of extra time, and check travel updates if it looks rough outside.

Top Attractions to Visit in Liverpool This Winter

Liverpool’s waterfront still looks stunning in winter, and you’ll find plenty of museums and historic landmarks nearby to duck into when the weather turns. The city’s maritime heritage and cultural gems stay open all year, and there’s always something special on in the colder months.

Liverpool Waterfront

The Liverpool Waterfront takes on a dramatic feel in winter, with waves crashing and clouds rolling over the Mersey. The Three Graces—Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building, and Port of Liverpool Building—stand out against the moody sky.

Walking along the waterfront promenade can be bracing but lovely, especially during daylight. If it gets too cold, you’ll find plenty of cafés nearby to warm up. Fewer crowds mean you can snap some great photos without jostling for space.

The Museum of Liverpool sits right on the waterfront. It’s bright, warm, and packed with local history. Big windows let you enjoy harbour views even if you don’t fancy going outside.

Royal Albert Dock

Royal Albert Dock is perfect for winter exploring. The Victorian architecture shelters you from the wind and rain, but you still get that old maritime vibe.

Tate Liverpool shows off contemporary art in climate-controlled galleries. In winter, they often put on special exhibitions or seasonal displays. If you need a break, the gallery café has a great view across the dock and serves up a decent cup of coffee.

The dock’s restaurants and shops stay open all winter. Indoor walkways link everything up, so you don’t have to brave the elements between stops. The Pump House pub serves classic British food in a setting full of original Victorian details.

Shopping here is fun too, with the Albert Dock Gift Shop and quirky maritime stores. Many places offer winter deals or special menus when it’s cold out.

The Beatles Story Museum

You can visit The Beatles Story Museum any time of year, but winter has its perks—shorter queues and a bit more space to take it all in.

Inside, you’ll find original instruments, clothing, and memorabilia from all four Beatles. Interactive exhibits let you step inside a recording session, and the Discovery Zone is hands-on for music lovers of any age.

Admission includes an audio guide, available in several languages. The museum shop stocks exclusive Beatles merch you won’t find anywhere else.

Winter hours usually run from 10am to 5pm daily. Covered walkways link the museum to the rest of Albert Dock, so you don’t have to get soaked between stops. Groups of 10 or more can grab a discount if you book ahead.

Liverpool Cathedral

Liverpool Cathedral is open for free, and it’s a stunning place to warm up. The Gothic Revival architecture feels grand but inviting, with intricate stonework and carvings everywhere you look.

If you’re feeling energetic, the tower is open for climbs even in winter. 331 steps later, you’re rewarded with sweeping city views—on a clear winter day, it’s fantastic for photos.

Winter brings special Christmas concerts and seasonal services. The on-site café serves hot meals and drinks, and the gift shop helps support the building’s upkeep.

Exhibitions in the Great Space change regularly. You might stumble on an art installation or a cultural event—there’s no rush and no need for a guided tour unless you want one.

Festive Events and Seasonal Activities

Liverpool goes all out for the holidays. Christmas markets pop up at St George’s Plateau, light displays dazzle across the city, and you can even go ice skating right on the Pier Head.

Christmas Markets

The Liverpool Christmas Market takes over St George’s Plateau in the run-up to Christmas. Wooden stalls line the square, selling everything from handmade gifts to local treats.

If you’re hungry, you’re in luck. There’s loads of street food—think bratwurst, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine to warm you up on a chilly December afternoon.

The market is lively, perfect for a family outing or a date night. Local makers show off their crafts, so it’s a great spot to find something unique. Markets usually open in late November and run right through December.

Other festive markets pop up around the city centre, each with its own vibe. They’re worth checking out if you want something a bit different from the main event.

Winter Light Installations

Every winter, Liverpool’s streets come alive with festive lights. Church Street is a highlight, with a canopy of sparkling installations overhead.

Liverpool Cathedral puts on some truly stunning light displays, drawing crowds from all over. The Gothic backdrop makes the colours and patterns even more impressive.

The city centre gets a full festive makeover—shop fronts, lamp posts, and building facades all join in. Most displays stay up until early January, so you’ve got time to soak it all in.

Pier Head joins the fun too, with waterfront lights reflecting off the Mersey. It’s a pretty magical spot for a winter walk.

Ice Skating Rinks

Pier Head hosts the city’s main outdoor ice rink during winter. It’s set right in the heart of the Christmas village, surrounded by lights and market stalls.

Everyone’s welcome, from total beginners to seasoned skaters. If you need a bit of help, skating aids are available, and the views of the waterfront make it a memorable experience.

You can book single sessions or come as a group, and skate hire is available on site. The rink opens from morning till evening, with longer hours on weekends.

It’s all part of the Liverpool Winter Festival, so you can mix skating with browsing the markets or catching some live entertainment.

Indoor Experiences for Chilly Days

Liverpool’s museums are a top choice for dodging the cold. Each one offers something unique—collections, interactive exhibits, or just a good excuse to stay warm and dry while soaking up the city’s history.

World Museum Liverpool

World Museum Liverpool packs in a huge range of stuff: natural history, science, and world cultures spread across several floors. The planetarium puts on regular shows that whisk you off through space and time. Kids (and adults) can get hands-on in the interactive galleries.

• Ancient Egyptian artefacts and mummies

• Natural History Centre with live animals

• Bug House full of tropical insects

• Hands-on science experiments

The aquarium is a highlight, with marine life from all over. Tropical fish glide through the tanks, and you can watch feeding times if you’re there at the right moment.

World Cultures galleries show off treasures from Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Costumes, weapons, and ceremonial objects tell stories from around the world. Temporary exhibitions keep things fresh, so each visit feels a bit different.

Tate Liverpool

Tate Liverpool focuses on modern and contemporary art from 1900 onwards. The gallery fills a converted warehouse in the historic Albert Dock.

Big windows let in natural light while keeping things comfortable inside. The space feels open but still manages to stay warm, even on colder days.

The permanent collection includes works by major British and international artists. You'll find paintings, sculptures, and installations from key movements in modern art.

Video art and digital pieces give the displays a fresh, contemporary twist. There's always something to spark curiosity, even if you're not an art expert.

Notable features:

• Rotating exhibitions from the Tate collection

• Educational workshops and talks

• Interactive family activities

• Artist-designed installations

Special exhibitions rotate every few months. These focused displays dive into specific themes, artists, or time periods.

The gallery shop sells art books, prints, and gifts you probably won't find elsewhere.

Merseyside Maritime Museum

Merseyside Maritime Museum tells Liverpool's story as a port city. The museum explores maritime history with ship models, maritime paintings, and hands-on displays.

Visitors get a sense of trade routes, passenger ships, and naval history. It's a place where you can learn and wander at your own pace.

The Titanic exhibition draws big crowds. Original artefacts and passenger stories bring the tragedy to life.

Interactive elements help you understand the ship's construction and final voyage. There's something haunting about seeing these pieces up close.

Museum highlights:

• Seized! gallery showing customs operations

• Historic lifeboats and rescue equipment

• International Slavery Museum on upper floors

• Working harbour views from windows

The International Slavery Museum sits within the same building. This powerful exhibition examines the transatlantic slave trade and its lasting impact.

Personal stories and historical documents make the displays moving and memorable.

Food and Drink in Liverpool During Winter

Liverpool's winter food scene is all about comfort, warmth, and festive menus. You'll find hearty local dishes, classic pub fare, and plenty of Christmas-themed treats throughout the city.

Cosy Cafés and Pubs

Liverpool's traditional pubs are perfect when it's cold outside. They serve hearty food, warming drinks, and often feature live music that nods to the city's musical roots.

Mother Espresso and Ropes & Twines are top picks for rich hot chocolate. Both cafés make drinks that feel like a reward after exploring Albert Dock or the city centre.

The pub scene buzzes in winter. Many places offer cosy spaces with fireplaces and classic décor.

You'll find British pub meals alongside local beers and spirits. It feels like a proper Liverpool experience.

Cafés across the city serve warming soups with crusty bread. Simple, satisfying, and just what you want on a chilly December day.

Local Winter Dishes

Menus around Liverpool shift to robust, warming dishes for winter. Restaurants lean into comfort foods with seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes.

Hearty soups show up everywhere, usually paired with buttery, rustic bread. There's something about that combo that just works in cold weather.

Expect classic British winter fare—stews, pies, and roasts. Many places put their own spin on these dishes, adding local flavours or twists.

BOXPARK Liverpool rolls out seasonal specials in winter. Their menu includes Christmas-themed food and proper winter warmers.

Restaurants near Albert Dock and tourist spots get creative with winter dishes. They mix international influences with local ingredients for something unique.

Festive Menus and Drinks

Liverpool Christmas Market serves up loads of food and drink options, and you can check confirmed pricing before you go. There's everything from mulled wine and hot chocolate to bratwurst and burgers.

Places like Punch Tarmeys craft special Christmas drink menus in December. Seasonal cocktails, warming spirits, and festive non-alcoholic options fill the list.

Many restaurants push Christmas food vouchers and holiday deals. BOXPARK Liverpool even includes vouchers with certain event tickets, like their Big Office Christmas Party.

Bottomless brunches get extra popular in winter. Venues offer unlimited drinks and hearty breakfasts—a good way to brighten up those short days.

Pubs citywide mix up special winter drink menus with mulled wine, hot toddies, and seasonal ales. Live entertainment on weekends just adds to the festive mood.

Shopping in Liverpool This Winter

Liverpool turns into a shopper's paradise in winter, with everything from major brands at Liverpool ONE to quirky independents and festive markets. The city is packed with places to hunt for Christmas gifts and winter essentials.

Liverpool ONE

Liverpool ONE stands out as the city's main shopping hub all winter. This huge complex has over 170 shops, from high-street staples to designer boutiques.

The centre goes all out between Christmas and New Year. Shoppers browse big brands and indie stores side by side.

Key Winter Features:

• Extended opening hours during festive season

• Indoor shopping to dodge the weather

• Loads of restaurants and cafés for a warm-up

• Regular winter sales and promotions

The complex gives you a break from Liverpool's unpredictable weather. You could easily spend a whole day wandering different levels and districts.

Boutique and Independent Shops

Liverpool's indie shopping scene comes alive in winter. The city centre and nearby areas have loads of boutique stores selling items you won't find on the usual high street.

Bold Street stays busy with alternative and vintage shopping. Many indie retailers roll out special winter collections and Christmas deals.

Local markets are great for handmade and artisanal finds. Liverpool Markets bring together creative businesses selling fashion, homeware, and crafts all winter.

Smaller shops often give more personal service. Owners even offer gift-wrapping or help you track down hard-to-find items.

Festive Gift Ideas

Winter shopping in Liverpool is perfect for scoring unique Christmas presents. Markets specialise in handmade crafts and locally-made gifts that feel special.

Popular Winter Gift Categories:

• Beatles memorabilia from specialist shops

• Locally-made food products from markets

• Handcrafted jewellery from independent artisans

• Vintage clothing from boutique stores

Markets serve up fresh food and drink options, ideal for edible gifts. Vendors offer seasonal specials and festive treats that make great presents.

Independent bookshops across the city stock unique titles and local-interest books. They're thoughtful gifts for anyone who wants to remember Liverpool.

Art galleries and craft shops sell locally-made pieces that work as souvenirs or standout gifts.

Outdoor Winter Walks and Parks

Liverpool's parks and coastal paths look stunning in winter. Sefton Park brings Victorian charm with its palm house and lakes, Crosby Beach features dramatic iron sculptures, and Calderstones Park mixes ancient stones with peaceful woods.

Sefton Park

Sefton Park is a favourite among locals, covering 235 acres of landscaped gardens and open space. The Palm House stands out in winter, its glass contrasting against bare trees.

Winter walkers can follow well-maintained paths around the park's two lakes. The main loop takes about 45 minutes at a relaxed pace.

The lakes draw waterfowl in winter, making it a good spot for birdwatching. If you like a quiet stroll, this is the place.

Key winter features include:

• Victorian Palm House (currently under restoration)

• Two scenic lakes with walking paths

• Playground areas for families

• Café facilities for warm drinks

The tree-lined avenues offer some shelter from the wind. Dog walkers love the open spaces, but remember to keep leads on in certain areas.

Crosby Beach

Crosby Beach gives you a unique coastal walk, famous for Antony Gormley's "Another Place"—100 cast-iron figures spread across the sand and sea. These sculptures look especially striking under winter skies.

The beach stretches for miles, perfect for brisk walks. Strong winds are pretty common, so bundle up.

The tides change the whole vibe—low tide reveals more sculptures and firmer sand. Winter visitors should check tide times before heading out.

It's tempting, but climbing the sculptures can be dangerous. Incoming tides move fast, so stay alert.

The nearby coastal path gives you an alternative if the beach is too wild. Sometimes that's the better option when the weather turns.

Facilities include:

• Free parking areas

• Nearby cafés in Crosby village

• Public toilets

• Easy access from Merseyrail stations

Calderstones Park

Calderstones Park blends ancient history with natural beauty across 126 acres. The park gets its name from a Neolithic stone circle, adding a sense of mystery to winter walks.

Old woodlands offer shelter and a bit of intrigue in cold months. The Harthill Avenue entrance leads you onto well-marked trails through mature trees and open grass.

Winter strips the park back, letting you see its structure more clearly. Bare branches make for dramatic patterns against grey skies.

The Japanese Garden is a peaceful retreat, though some water features might freeze during cold snaps. Families enjoy the adventure playground and wide spaces for kids to run around.

The park connects to the famous Allerton Oak, where medieval courts reportedly met. It's a little slice of history tucked into the landscape.

Notable features:

• Neolithic Calderstones (replica display)

• Japanese Garden

• Ancient oak woodlands

• Adventure playground

• Regular events and guided walks

Liverpool's Winter Nightlife and Entertainment

Liverpool's winter nightlife buzzes with theatre, cosy pubs, and club nights that keep things lively. The city's venues cover everything from acoustic sets to big productions and themed parties.

Theatre and Live Performances

Liverpool's theatre district offers strong winter programming across its top venues. The Liverpool Empire Theatre hosts major West End and touring shows all season.

The Everyman and Playhouse theatres put on acclaimed dramas and contemporary works. You never quite know what you'll stumble across on a given night.

Key Winter Venues:

• Liverpool Philharmonic Hall – Classical concerts and orchestral performances

• M&S Bank Arena – Large-scale concerts and touring acts

• Cavern Club – Intimate live music performances

• Arts Club – Alternative music and comedy nights

Many venues run special winter shows. Ballet and musicals appear from December to February.

Smaller spots like the Unity Theatre put on experimental and local productions. Liverpool's music heritage shines, with tribute acts and original bands playing historic venues.

Comedy nights are a big draw as people look for indoor fun. It's hard not to get swept up in the energy.

Bars and Live Music

Liverpool's pubs and bars stay lively in winter, with cosy interiors and live acts. Traditional pubs host acoustic nights and quizzes, while the Baltic Triangle area is packed with trendy bars, DJs, and craft cocktails.

Popular Winter Bar Types:

• Traditional pubs with open fires

• Rooftop bars with heated spots

• Craft beer venues with live music

• Wine bars hosting jazz nights

Live music venues book more intimate gigs in winter. Local musicians play regularly at places like the Jacaranda and Phase One.

Many bars stretch their entertainment with theme nights and special events. Mathew Street keeps its buzz even in the cold months, with indoor venues carrying the area's musical spirit.

Karaoke and acoustic sessions are especially popular. In winter, it feels like everyone's looking for a reason to stay out just a little longer.

Winter Club Events

Liverpool's clubbing scene gets creative in winter. Themed events and seasonal parties pop up everywhere.

Major clubs throw big New Year celebrations. Winter party series keep dance floors busy even when it's freezing outside.

Electronic music venues ramp up their indoor lighting. These spots become go-to escapes from the cold.

Winter Club Highlights:

• New Year's Eve parties at major venues

• Winter themed nights with special décor

• Extended indoor events to escape cold weather

• Student nights targeting university populations

Clubs team up more during winter. Multi-venue events let you hop between totally different atmospheres in one night.

Indoor markets sometimes add late-night entertainment alongside food and drink stalls. It makes for a surprisingly lively scene when it's cold outside.

The warehouse district offers huge spaces for winter events. You’ll catch everything from techno nights to alternative gigs there.

Many clubs tweak their lineups for a cozier, more intimate winter vibe. Genres that fit the season take center stage.

Accommodation Options in Liverpool for Winter Visitors

Liverpool serves up a mix of places to stay, whatever your budget or style. In winter, that means everything from luxury hotels in the city centre to charming bed and breakfasts.

You can find a warm base for exploring festive markets or just somewhere to crash after a long day out in the cold.

Hotels and Boutique Stays

The city centre is packed with hotels close to the action—major attractions, restaurants, and winter markets are all nearby. Most hotels offer heated indoor spaces and modern comforts, which honestly makes a difference when the weather turns bleak.

Serviced apartments are a smart pick for longer stays. You get hotel perks plus your own kitchen and living space.

PREMIER SUITES Liverpool sits right in the centre, offering serviced apartments that really feel like home—especially handy for winter breaks.

Luxury hotels in the city centre can be a treat on those chilly December nights. Most have on-site restaurants and bars, so you can warm up after wandering the Christmas markets.

The central locations mean you won’t have to brave the cold for long between sights.

Key benefits of city centre hotels:

• Walking distance to major attractions

• Indoor dining and entertainment

• Concierge services for booking winter activities

• Climate-controlled environments

Cosy Bed and Breakfasts

Traditional bed and breakfasts bring a personal touch to Liverpool’s winter stays. These smaller spots offer friendly service and local insights that big hotels just can’t match.

Lots of B&Bs serve up hearty breakfasts—perfect for fuelling up before a day out. Hosts often know the best Christmas markets or quieter times to hit popular places like The Beatles Story.

You’ll find fireplaces or comfy lounges in many B&Bs, so you can thaw out with a hot drink after exploring.

Winter B&B advantages:

• Personal attention from hosts

• Local recommendations

• Hearty breakfast included

• Intimate, homely atmosphere

Family-Friendly Accommodation

Families need places that work for both kids and adults, especially in winter. Many hotels offer connecting rooms, family suites, and kid-friendly perks.

Rental homes and apartments are great for longer stays. Kids get space to play indoors, and you can cook warm meals whenever you want.

Some family hotels have indoor pools or game rooms. These come in handy when the weather keeps everyone inside or when the kids need a break from sightseeing.

Family accommodation features:

• Multiple bedrooms or connecting rooms

• Kitchen facilities for preparing meals

• Indoor entertainment areas

• Child safety features and equipment

Tips for Travelling to and Around Liverpool in Winter

Getting to Liverpool in winter takes a bit of planning. Weather delays and reduced transport schedules can catch you off guard.

The city offers plenty of transport options, but parking can be tricky during the festive rush.

Transport Options and Connectivity

Rail Travel

Liverpool Lime Street acts as the main railway hub, with direct trains to London, Manchester, and Birmingham. Virgin Trains and Northern Rail run frequent services, though winter sometimes slows things down.

Cross Country trains link Liverpool to Scotland and the South West. Booking in advance usually means better winter prices.

Air Travel

Liverpool John Lennon Airport handles domestic and European flights. It’s about 8 miles southeast of the centre, and regular buses run to the city every half hour.

Manchester Airport offers more international options, sitting 35 miles away. Direct trains get you from Manchester Airport to Liverpool in around 90 minutes.

Coach Services

National Express coaches pull into Liverpool One bus station from all over the UK. Winter journeys can take longer thanks to weather and traffic.

Parking and Accessibility

City Centre Parking

Liverpool ONE has covered parking with more than 1,700 spaces. December rates jump because of Christmas shoppers.

Street parking gets scarce near popular winter spots. Many car parks offer early bird deals if you show up before 9am.

Park and Ride

Several park and ride lots operate on the outskirts. These help you dodge city centre congestion and keep parking costs down during busy winter weeks.

Accessibility

Most major attractions are wheelchair accessible and have adapted facilities. Liverpool ONE even offers mobility scooter hire for visitors who need it.

Navigating Liverpool in Cold Weather

Walking Routes

The city centre stays walkable in winter. Underground walkways link Liverpool ONE to nearby spots, so you can dodge the worst of the rain and wind.

Wear solid shoes—pavements get slippery when it’s frosty. Most attractions are within a 10-minute stroll of each other.

Public Transport

Merseyrail trains connect the centre to the suburbs. Trains run often, but severe weather sometimes causes delays.

Local buses keep regular routes throughout winter. Walrus cards offer discounted fares across Merseyside buses and trains.

Weather Preparation

December temperatures hover between 2-7°C, with rain pretty common. Pack waterproofs and plenty of layers if you plan to be outside.

Winds pick up near the waterfront. Always check the forecast before heading to outdoor spots like Albert Dock.

Day Trips from Liverpool in Winter

Winter really changes the feel of the areas around Liverpool. From Chester’s medieval walkways to Formby’s wild coastline, these spots offer a mix of indoor attractions and winter scenery.

Chester

Chester is a classic winter day trip, just 45 minutes away by train. The city’s famous Rows—covered shopping galleries—keep you warm while you wander medieval streets.

These unique two-level walkways date to the 13th century and are packed with independent shops, cafés, and restaurants. The vibe is especially cozy in winter.

Chester Cathedral gives you a peaceful escape from the cold. You can take in the Gothic architecture and maybe catch a winter concert.

The cathedral’s Christmas events run through December and add a festive touch to any visit.

The Roman walls around Chester are open all year. Walking them gives you great views across the city and countryside, and winter mornings are crisp and crowd-free.

Chester Zoo stays open in winter, with lots of indoor exhibits. The monorail usually runs (weather permitting), and the heated tropical houses are a real treat.

Winter feeding times often mean you’ll see more animal activity, making it a surprisingly lively spot even in the cold.

Wirral Peninsula

The Wirral Peninsula sits right across the Mersey and offers a bunch of winter attractions. Port Sunlight village is great for exploring Victorian history, with its museum and art gallery both indoors.

Winter highlights include:

• Lady Lever Art Gallery with Pre-Raphaelite collections

• Covered shopping at Birkenhead Market

• Historic Hamilton Square in Birkenhead

• Speke Hall's Tudor interiors

New Brighton’s seafront gets dramatic in winter. The marine lake stays calm for bracing walks, and nearby cafés serve up hot drinks and snacks.

Fort Perch Rock offers indoor historical exhibits when the weather turns nasty.

The peninsula’s parks and nature reserves—like Eastham Country Park—are great for winter walks. Bare trees open up views you’d miss in summer, and winter wildlife is out in force along the coast.

Formby

Formby's coastline really comes alive in the winter. The sand dunes and pine forests turn moody and atmospheric, perfect for a bracing walk.

Red squirrels get easier to spot in winter, darting through the bare branches. You might catch a flash of rust among the trees if you’re lucky.

Formby Beach just keeps going, mile after mile. When winter storms roll in, the waves put on quite a show.

Dog walkers love it here in the colder months. The place gets quieter, and dogs can run free off-lead without much fuss.

The beach car parks stay open all year, though sometimes the facilities close early or aren’t staffed. It’s good to check ahead if you need anything.

Best winter activities:

• Red squirrel watching in Formby Pinewoods

• Storm watching from the dunes

• Trying your hand at photography in that dramatic winter light

• Long, quiet coastal walks

The National Trust looks after most of the coastline here. The staff are usually happy to chat about local wildlife or point you to a good walking route.

Behind the dunes, old asparagus fields stretch out—bit unexpected, honestly. Footpaths stay open even in rough weather, so you can wander further if you fancy a change from the beach.