Planning your visit to Formby
Formby by train
Formby has great public transport links, especially by train:
- Freshfield station is located 1 mile from Victoria Road.
- Formby station is located 1.2 miles from Lifeboat Road.
To quickly check your train times click here
Formby by bike
Cycling is a great way to get to Formby and take in the scenery. Due to the fragile landscape, we ask that cyclists keep to the designated cycle path, tarmacked roads or beach. Cycle racks are available next to the entrances at both Victoria Road and Lifeboat Road.
There are plenty of cycle routes and paths in the local area. Bike hire is available at both the Eco Visitor Centre and Southport Train Station. You can take your bike for free, without pre-booking, on the Merseyrail network. Entry is free for visitors arriving on foot or by bike.
Top tips for parking at Formby
- Plan ahead and check opening times here.
- Check @NTFormby social media before you head off for updates.
- Head to Lifeboat Road (L37 2EB) for beach access as more space.
- Download the PayByPhone app from paybyphone.co.uk for a simple, contactless payment. Coins only in the machines.
- Avoid fines and unnecessary stress for local residents and emergency services by parking responsibly.
- Regular visitors can save money on parking, visit special National Trust places across the UK and support vital conservation work by becoming a member find out more here.
Every time you pay to park or scan your membership card you’re helping to protect Formby’s precious wildlife.
Top tips for being neighbourly
- Park responsibly taking care not to block driveways or pavements.
- Observe local speed restrictions to avoid accidents.
- Take your litter home with you to throw away or recycle.
- Resist the urge to honk your horn.
- Support local business by popping to a pub, café or shop.
If queues are long and car parks full please consider planning your visit for a quieter day and discovering alternative destinations. Thank you for being mindful of local residents.
Top tips to help protect wildlife
- Bring a bag to take your litter home and recycle.
- Scoop that dog poop and drop off in the car park or pavement bins.
- Keep dogs close by - dogs are welcome but please keep them under control.
- Stick to the sea for paddling to protect the natterjack toad dune pools.
- Keep your distance from resting, shoreline birds they have a long journey ahead.
- Tread softly - you never know what special wildlife might be under your feet.
- No fires please – enjoy a picnic but please don't have a BBQ or fire.
- Help reduce air pollution - switch off engines in queues or at railway crossings.
- No overnight stays please - search for designated campsites here .
Thank you for leaving only your footprints behind.
Image: Andrew Lakin
Top tips to help us open safely
- Plan ahead and consider alternative destinations at busy times.
- Park responsibly and keep access clear for emergency vehicles.
- Check tide times here before visiting - often very little beach at high tide.
- Leave alcohol at home - for safety reasons alcohol is not permitted.
- Say hello to the team we’re always happy to chat and share information.
