Walk this way: West Kirby

From Caldy Hill there are spectacular views across the Wirral peninsula over the Dee Estuary to Wales. The walk includes coastal and heathland habitats, and you can rest at the end while watching the water sports on the marine lake.

The route: Starting at the end of Dee Lane (next to the West Kirby marine Lake), walk back towards the town centre and onto the Wirral Way. At Ashton Park, head towards Caldy over Caldy Hill before returning to the Wirral Way and heading back to West Kirby through Cubbins Green and along Macdona Drive. head towards the marine lake and (if access allows) walk around the lake path or, alternatively walk along the promenade to Dee Lane.

Stamina required? This easy-going walk mainly follows footpaths. There are some gentle slopes, finishing with a level part along the coast.

strong>Refuelling options: There are plenty of good eateries in West Kirby but walkers are also welcome at the new Loch Fyne Restaurant on Village Road, approaching Caldy Hill, for a plate of delicious oysters (0151 929 6750, www.lochfyne.com).

What else is there to see? Caldy Hill is part of a Triassic sandstone ridge with heathland vegetation overlooking the Wirral Way - a footpath and combined cycle track that extends 12 miles from West Kirby through to Hooton in Cheshire. Once you have appreciated the spectacular views, you can take a slight diversion onto the foreshore at Cubbins Green.

Wildlife highlights: This walk combines a number of habitats, so take your binoculars to see the wide variety of birds on the heathland, moving along the hedgerows, on the freshwater pond at Ashton Park or off the coast.

And for the kids? West Kirby has a beautiful sandy beach, manned by lifeguards in summer months. Old-fashioned fun is top of the agenda, with kite flying and sandcastle building popular options, pony rides on the beach, ice-cream vans and a strandline perfect for hunting out crab shells and mermaids' purses.

Where to stay: Built in 1885, Peel Hey is a country house just minutes from West Kirby in the conservation village of Frankby. Enjoy locally sourced food at breakfast and strawberry cream teas in the conservatory overlooking the garden. From £89 per room (0151 677 9077, www.peelhey.co.uk).

Getting there: West Kirby train station is in the centre of town and buses run here from Liverpool and Birkenhead. Free parking is along the promenade.

OS Maps Landranger 75; Explorer 340. Click here for the Ordnance Survey Get-a-map Service to see your chosen area online.

For more info Wirral Country Park Visitor Centre, Station Road, Thurstaston (0151 648437, www.visitwirral.com); www.merseycoastandcountry.co.uk.