Hilbre Islands

Hilbre Islands

The Islands are cut off from the mainland by the tide for up to four hours out of every twelve. If you are planning a visit to the Islands you must allow yourself enough time so that you can leave Hilbre at least three hours before high water, or longer if you have small children or walk slowly.

It takes about 1 hour to cross the 2 miles to Hilbre. Alternatively, you must set out from West Kirby at least three hours before high Water and allow for a stay of five hours or more on Hilbre. Strong winds may bring the tide in early or suddenly. Please telephone: 0151 632 4455 for advice on tide times. Tide tables can be purchased locally and are on display at Dee Lane slipway.

There are no shops, public toilets or any fresh water on the Islands, and very little shelter. Toilets are available at Dee Lane Slipway, West Kirby; open 10 am to 6 pm.

Access to Hilbre is by foot, across the two miles from West Kirby. The safest route to Hilbre Island is to start from the slipway at Dee Lane, next to the Marine Lake, walk towards Little Eye, the smallest of the three Islands, keeping it on your right. As soon as you pass Little Eye turn right and continue on the sand passing Middle Eye on your left. Between Middle Eye and Hilbre take the rough track over the rocks towards the small tidal pool. Once off the rocks turn left towards the gate at the south end of Hilbre. Do not cross direct to Hilbre Island, and do not cross from Hoylake.

In the waters around Hilbre Islands LNR can be found a number of different species of seals, so keep an eye out for them but please don't feed them.

The Visitor Centre is open daily from 10am to 5pm.

Access to the Local Nature Reserve is free of charge.