Trains to Crosby Beach and everything you need to know

Travelling to Crosby Beach by train is not only a practical and budget-friendly option, but the journey itself is part of the adventure. From the moment you step on the train, you're heading towards an unforgettable experience. Crosby is famous for its unique 'Another Place' art installation by Antony Gormley, and its peaceful, wide sandy stretches offer a perfect escape.

The train station is just minutes from the beach, eliminating the need for a car and the stress of parking. Taking the train allows you to enjoy the scenic views of the northern coastline during your journey, which you’d miss if driving. 

Trains also make it easier for those travelling with bikes, as you can bring your bicycle along for free on Merseyrail trains. Overall, travelling by train is a convenient, affordable, and environmentally friendly choice for getting to Crosby Beach.

Reaching Crosby Beach, located in Blundellsands, is a straightforward journey via train. The primary access point is Blundellsands & Crosby railway station, which is well-served by Merseyrail. The station is situated just a short 5-minute walk from the beach, making it an incredibly convenient option for visitors.

Once you arrive at Blundellsands & Crosby station, you’ll need to exit on the Southport-bound side, which is opposite the ticket office. From here, walk along Blundellsands Road West. Follow the road all the way to the end, and you’ll find a footpath that leads directly to the beach promenade. The walk is direct and easy to follow, and you’ll be greeted by the iconic beach, famous for Antony Gormley’s Another Place installation, as soon as you reach the coast.

Merseyrail manages the station and offers a ticket office that is open Monday to Saturday from 05:52 until 00:12, and on Sundays from 08:07 to 00:12. There are ticket machines available, including accessible ones, as well as facilities to collect pre-booked tickets. The station offers step-free access to all platforms, accessible toilets, ramps for train access, and a waiting room with seating. For those with hearing impairments, induction loops are installed throughout the station.

Stay informed with live departure and arrival boards, and see how pricing and frequency change between peak and off-peak hours here.

Travelling to Crosby Beach is easy from several major cities, with a variety of routes that offer both convenience and beautiful scenery. London, Liverpool, and Manchester all have frequent trains throughout the day, providing plenty of options to fit different schedules. Each route varies in travel time and number of changes, but all provide a comfortable journey to this popular coastal destination.

London to Crosby Beach

3h 30m (London Euston, Avanti West Coast + Merseyrail, 2 changes at Liverpool Central & Lime Street)

Travelling from London to Blundellsands & Crosby can be as quick as 3h 30m. There are approximately 45 trains daily on this 184-mile route, but most involve two changes, commonly at Liverpool Lime Street and Liverpool Central. 

Operators include Avanti West Coast and Merseyrail. The earliest weekday service leaves at 05:26 and the last around 23:00. Although there are no direct trains, the journey offers views of the English countryside and the Mersey estuary, particularly as you approach Liverpool.

Liverpool to Crosby Beach

19 minutes (Liverpool Central, Merseyrail, direct trains)

For those already in Liverpool, getting to Crosby Beach couldn’t be easier. Merseyrail runs direct trains from Liverpool Central to Blundellsands & Crosby every few minutes throughout the day. The journey is a quick 19 minutes over just six miles, making it perfect for a day trip or even a short visit.

With 158 trains operating daily between Liverpool Central, Lime Street, and South Parkway to Blundellsands & Crosby, you have great flexibility. Trains start as early as 05:02 and run until 22:42, making it ideal for both early starters and evening returnees. 

Manchester to Crosby Beach

1h 50m (Manchester Victoria/Oxford Road, one change at Southport, Northern + Merseyrail)

Getting to Blundellsands & Crosby Beach from Manchester is quick and convenient, with 67 trains per day running from Oxford Road or Victoria stations. Services start at 05:46 and continue through to 23:32, with a journey time of 1 hour 26 minutes. Though there’s one change required, usually at Southport, connections are frequent and well-timed. This journey covers 33 miles, and Merseyrail and Northern operate the trains. 

To save on train fares, it’s best to book tickets up to 12 weeks in advance through TrainPal, which often offers discounted advance fares. Railcards can also help significantly reduce costs. For example, the Family Railcard, 16–25 Railcard, Two Together, and Senior Railcard offer around a third off most tickets.

If you’re travelling with children, look out for special offers that allow kids to travel for just £1. Group travel can also reduce costs, as can comparing ticket types such as Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime fares. Finally, consider splitting your journey into segments when booking, which can sometimes reduce the overall cost.

Crosby Beach offers visitors an excellent mix of natural beauty, art, and outdoor activities. The coastal walks are particularly popular, providing sweeping views across the sea towards the Wirral and even North Wales on clear days. The beach is famous for its striking "Another Place" art installation by Antony Gormley, featuring 100 cast-iron figures standing along the shore and out to sea.

For those seeking adventure, the nearby Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre offers a range of water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and open-water swimming. Families will appreciate the spacious beach for picnics and sandcastle building, while the coastal path invites gentle walks or cycling. The nearby Waterloo Parks and St Nicholas’ Church add historical and leisure options close to the beach.

Facilities on site include toilets, accessible toilets, lifeguarded zones for safety, and rental shops for kayaks and paddleboards. Nearby cafes provide refreshments and light meals. Visitors are advised to check tide times carefully and stay within 50 meters of the promenade, as there are areas of soft sand and shifting mud. Weather can change quickly, so pack essentials such as towels, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.

When is the best time to visit Crosby Beach?

The ideal time to visit Crosby Beach is during low tide when the full extent of Antony Gormley’s sculptures can be explored and enjoyed. It’s also a great time for a leisurely walk along the beach, as you’ll have more space to explore and take photos. Additionally, sunset is a magical time at Crosby Beach, offering an extraordinary view.

Is it safe to swim at Crosby Beach?

Crosby Beach is not a designated bathing area, and it has a permanent red flag warning due to the strong currents, deep mud, and rapidly changing tides. Always follow safety signage and avoid venturing too far out into the water.

Can I bring my bike on the train?

Yes, Merseyrail stations, including Blundellsands & Crosby, offer secure bike storage, and you can bring bicycles on trains outside peak hours. 

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

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