Be it a place to entertain the kids, get your arts and culture fix, or indulge in some seriously good food, there’s plenty to see and do in Crosby. Here, we’ve rounded up the best, including top picks for restaurants, can't-miss attractions and adventure experiences.
Make a beeline for Antony Gormley’s Another Place
This is an astounding spectacle from sculptor Antony Gormley. Most of us will be familiar with his iconic Angel of the North, but we’d go as far to say that Another Place is equally as arresting, if not as well known. It consists of 100 cast iron figures on Crosby Beach, all facing toward the sea. It’s faced its share of controversy, but the work has placed Crosby firmly on the map, with tourists making their way to the town for the statues alone.
Get your adrenaline going at Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre
This modern adventure centre, providing a handsome focal point at Crosby Marina, offers all manner of outdoor adventures - from open water swimming and stand-up paddleboards, to kayaking and jet-skiing. There’s something to appeal to all ages here; if you’re not up for getting out on the water, the marina itself is also a great place to spot marine wildlife.
Watch the sunset at Crosby Beach
Obviously, come here at all times of the day - a long, sandy beach is always a treat for us Brits, and Crosby offers exactly that. Like its Merseyside counterparts, it affords stunning views (on a clear day, you’ll be able to spot the Wirral and North Wales). If you’re around for the sunset, though, make sure you watch it here.
Top tip
The 22-mile Sefton Coastal Path starts here, so if you’re up for a challenge, this is your place to be!
Tee off at West Lancashire Golf Club
This award-winning golf course has played host to all manner of tournaments over the years. It’s also one of Britain’s oldest, spanning 200 acres that provide a notoriously testing and natural course. Rare wildflowers grow freely and endangered species have found themselves a home here, too. A top spot for avid golfers and beginners alike, with plenty of scenery to match.
Take the plunge at New Adventures Diving School
Up for a challenge? If heading out for some lakeside watersport wasn’t adrenaline-inducing enough for you, make your way to New Adventures Diving and get your thrills on with a PADI course. It’s run by a small, friendly group who pride themselves on keeping things fun while you learn. They also do specialty and advanced courses, and dive regularly for fun in the North West - you can join them once you’re qualified!
Take your pick of parks
Whether it’s a picturesque amble, a new dog walk or a place to let the kids run off some steam you’re after, there’s ample choice here.
- Waterloo Park. A great spot for a picnic, overlooked by some of Crosby’s most beautiful houses.
- Victoria Park, an offshoot of Waterloo, is a great spot to walk the dogs, with plenty of pretty trees and a great play area for kids.
- Coronation Park, with a children’s play area, duck pond and football fields, is another family-friendly option, right in the heart of town.
- Blundellsands Key Park is a member’s only park, but if you’re a regular visitor, it’s worth looking into, as it’s home to all sorts of beautiful birdlife, wildlife, trees and plants. It’s even been designated a Site of Local Biological Importance.
- Primrose Valley Country Park - if you’re just visiting for the day, we’d recommend this one, a peaceful oasis of wildlife where you can follow the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.
- Marine Garden is a lovely, quiet spot to walk the dogs.
Go hunting for antiques at College Antiques
This quirky antique shop in town is full of wonderful antique offerings - even if you’re not in the market for anything, it’s a lovely place to potter around. Check out its furniture showroom, too.
Visit St. Nicholas’ Church
Beautiful stained glass windows, themed gardens and a rich and fascinating heritage make this historic church on Bridge Road well worth a visit. Heritage tours run regularly, though in the current climate they are suspended, so make sure to check ahead before you go.
Best restaurants in Crosby
Need some help deciding where to dine, drink or just pop in for a snack? Check out Crosby’s best restaurants here.
- Stop in for good food and good vibes at The Tree House. A decidedly botanical theme, friendly service and delicious plates are the name of the game at this family-run restaurant bistro.
- Tuck into top-notch Thai at Ayuthaya, where you’ll find feast-size portions for great prices.
- Grab a cheap and cheerful bite to eat at Rock Salt. (Don’t be fooled by the almost-too-good-to-be-true prices.) It’s a great spot for brunch, too.
- Treat yourself to a special outing at Mustard & Co. This character-filled restaurant is Crosby’s answer to your date night, with charming ambience, great service and fresh, locally-sourced food.
- Enjoy live music and tapas at Blues Bar. This is the place to be in Crosby if you’re looking for great live acts, with good beer to match; but they also serve up a delicious range of breakfasts, lunches and dinners.
- Get your Italian fix at Cantinetta. Deliciously authentic Mediterranean food, best enjoyed with a freshly-made cocktail or two.
- Tuck in to brunch at Fletchers & Co. Expect top-notch coffee and fresh juices alongside the likes of smoked salmon dishes, graze platters, and classic English breakfasts at this friendly local.
- Feast on generous salsa dishes - with a globetrotting twist - at So Salsa Crosby. This family-run tapas restaurant is one of Crosby’s most popular spots to eat, with delicious tapas dishes that range from Thai-inspired to classic Spanish cuisine.
FAQs
Can you swim in Crosby Beach?
It’s strongly recommended not to swim in Crosby Beach, due to the mud and strong tides. However, it’s home to Anthony Gormley’s famous Another Place, so well worth a visit.
Can you walk along the beach from Crosby to Formby?
Yes! You can walk directly along the Sefton Coastal Path. It’s roughly 10 miles to walk, so make sure you come well equipped; and it’s a great way to take in the sights and sounds of Merseyside.
