Formby
Merseyside,
S pring in Formby means asparagus, sun-struck sand dunes and deep, dark pine forests. The National Trust-owned woods are also one of the few habitats in England where the native red squirrel can still be seen.
Running quickly from branch to branch in the tops of the trees, these usually elusive creatures don’t appear to be frightened of human beings, and often venture down to the ground. Dawn is the best time to spot them, and it’s not uncommon to see the rodents scapper across the path in front of you. The short Squirrel Walk (1/2 mile) takes about 30 minutes, but often lasts much longer as you observe the squirrels’ funny little habits. To photograph in this low light, you’ll need a long lens, high ISO, quick reactions and patience.
Though many visitors come to this area for the squirrels, I love leaving the forest for the beach. In spring, the contrast between the shade of the trees and the bright dunes is scintillating. There are 21 miles of the Sefton Coastal Path to explore, stretching north to Southport and south to Liverpool.
Watch for sculptor Antony Gormley’s Another Place – 100 cast iron figures facing out to sea. And in May and June, sample the area’s infamous asparagus while walking the Asparagus Trail.