Photography #9 - A dune for all seasons

Yesterday I spent a few wonderful hours at one of my favourite local retreats - Formby Nature Reserve. It's a 20 minute drive up the coast from Liverpool (UK) and is owned and managed by the National Trust charity. They manage a huge number of the UK's heritage sites.

I honestly believe Formby has something for everyone and I think you'd have to try really hard not to like something about the place. If you're not one for crowds, then avoid sunny weekends (it gets crammed with families and dog walkers) but, time it just right, and it is wonderful.

Mrs Fryda takes our herd for a walk on the beach

Firstly, it has pine forest habitat - this is one of the few places in England that you can still see our native red squirrels. The population is still recovering from a recent squirrel pox outbreak a few years ago, which decimated the population, but they are still around. We saw some on our last trip here - I probably wouldn't recommend bringing dogs if you wish to observe them though...

Pleasant and tranquil shade, from wind or sun

It has a long stretch of coastal dune habitat - haven to rare Natterjack toads, tiger beetles (both rare in the UK) and a whole host of other wildlife.

One of the managed freshwater natterjack ponds

Plenty of spots for a secluded picnic

Tall coastal dunes, occasionally covered with kids burning off energy

It has long, clean beaches - with plenty of beach combing opportunities for young and old alike. People come here to run their dogs, ride their horses, or just spend a day doing beach things with their families.

Looking North, towards Southport

Looking South, towards Liverpool

Plenty to find on the beach, like this mermaid's purse (shark egg case)
attached to whelk eggs

But it's more that the sum of it's parts. It's quality time spent outdoors with loved ones. It's magical for kids, whether hunting for squirrels, climbing sand dunes or exploring beach finds. It's great for us artists too - the light is great here...

An Inspiring trip for a landscape artist

Hopefully, my photos do it some justice. If you're in the area, I recommend a few hours to explore. I'm sure you'll want to come back.