Birkenhead - Wallasey Coast Guide 

Birkenhead is a large port and dockland area on the south side of the River Mersey. This was the site of the famous Cammel Laird shipyard which was founded in Birkenhead in 1824 and continued to operate until 1993. The town is situated at the northern end of The Wirral peninsular which is an area of, mostly unspoilt, countryside dotted with picturesque villages. At the far end of the peninsular there are a number of seaside resorts, including New Brighton, which was intended to be a northern copy of the famous south coast resort. 

For details of  Birkenhead Hotels and Holidays, Guest Houses, Cottages  and to visit Attractions.  Go to Birkenhead Hotels  Guest Houses and Cottages

The Wirral peninsula is mentioned in the Domesday Book and by other ancient chroniclers. In 1330 Edward II granted a charter establishing the original ferry over the Mersey from the priory in Birkenhead. The whole area was used as a royal hunting ground during the middle ages. 

Birkenhead's first docks were opened in 1847 and in the same year Birkenhead Park was officially opened to the public. It was the first public park in the country and the model for the more famous Central Park in New York. The Scout Movement was inaugurated in Birkenhead by Robert Baden-Powell in 1908.

Wallasey

There are many good beaches on the Wirral peninsular which are suitable for swimming and watersports. Wallasey (New Brighton) has sandy beaches and a promenade Hoylake and West Kirby are bustling seaside towns with miles of award winning sandy beaches and inviting promenades for the casual walker. There are nature reserves at The North Wirral Coast Park and at Hilbre Island where you can see seals and many wading birds - please note that access is tidal and you can get cut off here. Birkenhead is also home to The Warship Preservation Trust which has a number of ex-naval ships on display, including the frigate HMS Plymouth and a British and German submarine.  

Places to visit around Birkenhead

Birkenhead Park - Conservation area, and countryside park within the city. The park also has 2 cricket clubs, tennis courts, bowling greens, football pitches and fishing.

Birkenhead Priory - This Benedictine Monastery was established in around 1150 - 4 Priory Street, Birkenhead, England

Europa Pools - Leisure and swimming pools - Conway Street CH41 6RN Phone: 0151 647 4182

Lady Lever Art Gallery - Art gallery established by Lady Lever with cafe and shop - Port Sunlight Village Lower Rd CH62 5EQ Phone: 0151 478 4136

Map of Birkenhead area

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Other sections of the guide you might also enjoy - see below.

Activities

Whether your idea of an ideal activity is sunbathing or you prefer something more strenuous, the  chances are that you will be able to pursue this at the coast. 

Attractions - see listings pages

A huge selection of attractions are available within the coastal area and this section will have details of many of them -  from piers and harbours to fun fairs and roller coasters, 

Pubs, restaurants and shopping guide

The listings section will also have details of pubs, restaurants, nightclubs and shops available in the locality. Restaurants and shops coming soon.....

Features

We will bring you feature  articles  about the coastline and  news items about life in the coastal area. contributions to this section are welcome.

Photo Gallery

A great selection of photos from the Southwest region.

Ukcoastguide