Cycling in Formby: Routes, Paths and What to Know

Formby is flatter than you would think and more cycleable than most people know. There is no dedicated cycling infrastructure in the village itself, but the routes available, including the coastal path, the NT access tracks, and the quiet lanes through the pinewoods, make it genuinely good for family cycling and leisure rides.

The Coastal Path

The National Cycle Network Route 62 runs along the Sefton Coast from Southport south through Ainsdale and Formby. On the Formby section this runs inland from the beach through the dune edge, with sections of tarmac path and some compacted track. It is suitable for hybrid bikes and children's bikes. The surface varies. Some sections are smoother than others. Road bikes are possible but not ideal.

From Formby you can cycle south toward Ainsdale or north toward the Birkdale corridor. The southern section toward Ainsdale is the better riding, with longer stretches of smooth path and good views toward the dunes and beach. Allow around 45 minutes to reach Ainsdale at a relaxed family pace.

National Trust Access Tracks

The National Trust estate at Formby has internal tracks that are accessible on foot and by bike. The main track from the Victoria Road car park (L37 1YH) to the beach is compacted sand and gravel and rideable on a hybrid or mountain bike. It is not suitable for road bikes. Cycling is permitted on the main access track but not on the narrower footpaths through the pinewoods.

Be aware of walkers and families on the main NT track, particularly in summer when it is busy between 10am and 4pm. Early morning and evening cycling is more pleasant and considerably less congested.

Village Lanes

The roads around Formby village are quiet enough for comfortable cycling. Victoria Road, Freshfield Road, and the lanes toward Freshfield village are used by local cyclists regularly. These are not separated cycle paths: they are standard roads with low traffic that are comfortable on a bike without being designed for it.

Freshfield village is about two miles north of Formby village centre and easily reached by bike on quiet roads. It is worth visiting: quieter than Formby, a few independent businesses, and a different character to the main village.

Bike Hire

There is no dedicated bike hire in Formby village at the time of writing. Visitors with their own bikes can bring them on Merseyrail trains (subject to train conditions and space). If cycling is the primary reason for the trip, check Merseyrail's current cycle policy before travelling.