The Ainsdale and Birkdale Sandhills Nature Reserve is one of the largest areas of wild dune land left in Britain.
The reserve was established in 1980 and now covers 988 hectares of open dunes and beach. It is typical of most sand dune systems with high dune ridges and dune valleys containing slacks. Slacks are low hollows formed by wind-blow, often flooded during the winter which contain many unusual plants and animals. Some slacks provide ideal breeding pools for Natterjack Toads, whose astonishing chorus earns it the local name of ‘Birkdale Nightingale’.
There is the Great Crested Newt, Britain’s most protected species of amphibian, whose numbers are on the increase on the Reserve. Another rare species found on the Reserve is the Sand Lizard, a secretive, shy reptile that is rarely actually seen.
The reserve is rich in plant life. During the summer months damp slacks are carpeted with flowers including Early-marsh Orchid, Marsh Helleborine and Grass of Parnassus. In drier slacks the Round-leaved Wintergreen and nationally rare Dune Helleborine can be found.
Always check the safety signage and flags present before entering the water on the coast. And if you have any questions, the friendly lifeguards are happy to chat. More info can be found: Water Safety
The Velvet Trail
The trail is a circular route following the Green Beach from Weld Road southwards, then winding through the dunes back to Weld Road. The trail takes its name from the carpets of lush vegetation seen there in the early summer months. It was well known at the turn of the century, when it proved to be one of the coasts main attractions.
The dune trail is a circular walk through the reserve and passes through examples of the diverse habitats on site.
Facilities
- The toilets at Shore Road are open during the summer
- Way-marked footpaths link the reserve with the Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve
- The nearby Sands Lake Trail is now officially open and the clearly marked boardwalk is particularly suitable for mobility impaired visitors to experience the typical flora and fauna of the coast.
The beach is zoned and vehicles are restricted by barriers north and south of the main beach entrance. Please respect the wildlife on the coast and keep any dogs under control and out of the dog free area.
Visiting Ainsdale and Birkdale Sandhills Nature Reserve
Ainsdale and Birkdale Sandhills Nature Reserve is in easy walking distance from Merseyrail station Birkdale, you can plan your journey and find timetables on the Merseyrail website. There are also many regular bus routes from the town centre and further afield.
Ainsdale Discovery Centre
Promenade
Ainsdale
PR8 2QB
Email- greensefton@sefton.gov.uk
Travelling By Car
The nature reserve can be entered from the beach or from the car park at Ainsdale discovery centre. People are encouraged to plan ahead to avoid traffic delays and are reminded to park responsibly and considerately.