Our first Sober Trail in England had to be on home shores ~ the Wirral.

Growing up here, I didn’t appreciate the green space on this little peninsula. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realised how nice and wild this stretch of coastline really is.

Craving some nature therapy, Tom & I set out on a late-summer evening to enjoy the last light. The sea was hectic and it was the perfect way to make the most of the late nights in the height of summer.

The walk to Hilbre itself is unique. You set off from West Kirby and cross the sands at low tide, passing Little Eye & Middle Eye before reaching Hilbre Island. It does feel adventurous ~ the sea closes in on both sides and you’re literally walking the seabed. But timing is everything, so always check tide times carefully before heading out. The risks of getting cut off or stuck in sand sludge are very real.

Once on the island, there’s space to wander, explore, sit on the rocks, watch the seals, or open your Stanley flask. Hilbre is basic ~ no facilities, no signal, just open space and views across the Dee Estuary & North Wales.

Visiting Hilbre made me reflect on how easy it is to overlook beauty when it’s local. In my late teens & early twenties, most of my free time was spent drinking in Liverpool or on the Wirral ~ not making the most of what was around me. As I’ve gotten older, and since going alcohol-free, I’ve come to appreciate it much more.

When you’re back on shore, I’d recommend making a stop for food & coffee in West Kirby. Mother is a local favourite for a deli, Lateral by Wylde is a solid option for hot food, and Little Eye Coffee is ideal for a little pre / post hike pick-me-up.

~ Type of Walk: 4 mile round trip over sand, crossing Little Eye & Middle Eye to Hilbre Island. Flat but can feel long underfoot.

~ Parking: Around West Kirby Marine Lake (CH48 0QG). Start from Dee Lane slipway.

~ Equipment: Sturdy footwear (you don’t mind getting wet), water, food, camera, binoculars, and layers.

~ Best Time to Visit: Any time of year, but tide-dependent. A late summer / early autumn evening is special. Walks can be wild and atmospheric all year round. Winter sunsets are pretty incredible too.

~ Company: Tom, Seals, Ocean.

~ Coordinates: 53.3914° N, 3.2277° W

~ Photography & Words: Scott Woolley. Images captured on Leica Q ~ June 2025.