Table of Contents
If you're searching for things to do in Wirral, the charming town of Heswall deserves a place at the top of your list. Perched on the western edge of the peninsula with sweeping views across the Dee Estuary to North Wales, this affluent community blends natural beauty with a vibrant independent shopping and dining scene. Here's our guide to the best attractions and activities.
1. Heswall Dales Local Nature Reserve
The heathland was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1979 and is one of the best remaining examples of lowland heath in Merseyside.
The reserve has wet and dry heath, with birch and oak scrub, so walks aren't always smooth.
There is free access at all times. Although six access points lead into the reserve, the main route is via Oldfield Road, which crosses the heath to Bushway, off Delavor Road.
Scenic views of the River Dee can be seen from the site. You'll find species such as butterflies and lizards.
2. Heswall Golf Club
If you want to tee off, head to the Heswall Golf Club. The club was founded in 1902 by architect Jack Morris, but others contributed to the course's improvement over the years. The gently rolling parkland course affords the golfer all that is good in the game; scenic beauty with views over the Dee Estuary to the Clwyd hills, including Moel Famau, Point of Ayr, and Hilbre Islands.
The course is so impressive that Heswall was chosen by the R&A to host the Junior Open Championship in 2006, the same year that The Open Championship was held at Royal Liverpool Golf Club. The club is located on Cottage Lane in nearby Gayton.
3. The Wirral Way
No, this isn't a way of doing things, but it's a cool landmark you should look out for. Essentially, it's a pathway that sits on the track of an old railway, spanning from West Kirby to Hooton. It also offers a view of the Dee Estuary and Wales, and passes through Heswall.
Originally an old railway line, the trail connects West Kirby to Hooton in Chester.
Walkers can wind along the paths of the Heswall Nature Reserve, where they can keep an eye out for wildlife, pass through The Dungeon woodland, where they can enjoy the waterfall, and take in the views from the Wirral Way. The trail passes through the area and is accessible from Banks Road.
4. The Jug & Bottle
Now, back to the good stuff. The Jug & Bottle, located on Mount Avenue, is one of the area's most popular pubs, located on the hill away from the busy center of town. It is a traditional pub where guests can stay in boutique bedrooms and dine on fresh British pub classics like smoked haddock.
Originally a private house built in the 1870s, converted to offices before becoming a pub, changing to its current name in 1993 from the Hill House Hotel. The open fires and different cosy areas inside create a warm and friendly atmosphere, while the decking outside gives fine views towards the River Dee and North Wales.
5. Linghams Booksellers
Every nice area has to have an independent bookshop, and Heswall is no different. The bookshop is situated on the popular Telegraph Road. The bookshop is owned by Sue Porter and Mike King, and is a well-established part of the community.
Coffee and cake are available in their cosy café, and patrons can even order books from the store if there is no stock. The book shop also has‘Author Events’ and ‘School Events’, where fans can meet their favourite authors. Authors coming soon to Linghams include author Lorraine Kelly, Steve Cavanagh, and Barbara Erskine.
6. Telegraph Road
Telegraph Road is at the centre of all the action, with bars and restaurants, stores and coffee shops, creating a wonderful atmosphere that is typical of a close-knit community. We've already curated a Heswall restaurant guide with plenty of features on Telegraph Road, but there are others you should explore too.
Yøt is a café and independent shop, run by a local couple serving views of Wirral coastal paths and fresh cakes, tray bakes, and vegan and gluten-free options.
At Voisin, visitors can savour the essence of French culinary artistry. This charming café, bistro, and bar offers a delightful fusion of French flavours and warm hospitality. Or you can grab a pint at a converted cycle shop at The Beer Lab. There's something for everyone on Heswall's famous road.
