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​Palm Sunday Pathway: Walk Route Summary

The 12-mile Palm Sunday Pathway charity walk follows the beautiful Wirral Way, offering stunning views of the Wirral Peninsula’s coastline, countryside, and nature reserves. Starting at Hooton and finishing in West Kirby, this walk is an ideal way to enjoy nature while supporting a number of maintenance and building projects within our parish.​

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Route Details:

Start: Hooton Station

The walk begins at Hooton Station, an accessible starting point with nearby parking. From here, participants will follow the Wirral Way towards West Kirby, crossing through rural landscapes, woodland paths, and open fields. The journey starts with a peaceful and reflective tone as the first stretch of the route sets the stage for an unforgettable walk.

 

First Leg of the Walk (approx. 4 miles):

The initial 4-mile stretch is characterized by serene views of farmland, hedgerows, and woodlands. As you walk, you’ll pass through the village of Hooton, before heading further along the Wirral Way. This section offers views of the Borough of Wirral, and in the spring and summer months, walkers can enjoy sightings of wildlife along the trail, including birds and butterflies. Landmarks along this section include:

 

• Hooton Railway Station – The starting point, a historical railway station.

• Hooton Hall Estate – A large estate and house, with glimpses of its grounds as you walk past.

 

Passing through Hadlow Road, Willaston:

As the walk progresses, participants will pass through Hadlow Road in Willaston, a picturesque area known for its village charm and beautiful surroundings. This area is characterized by open fields and quiet country roads.

 

Midway Break (approx. 4 miles):

After about 4 miles, walkers will reach Neston or a nearby rest point, a good spot to take a break. There are no large facilities here, so it’s a great opportunity to hydrate, enjoy snacks, and stretch. Take in the view of the surrounding nature reserves and wildlife areas, as the route starts to move closer to the coastal part of the Wirral.

 

Second Leg of the Walk (approx. 4 miles):

As the trail continues, the scenery changes, offering more expansive views. Walkers will now begin to see glimpses of the Dee Estuary and enjoy the coastal air as the walk moves closer to West Kirby. This 4-mile section takes you through:

 

• Puddington – A village and nature reserve area with marshlands and birdlife.

• Caldy Hill – The start of a slight elevation leading up to the panoramic views of the coast.

• Thurstaston Hill and Country Park – Offers views of the Dee Estuary, and is a prime spot for wildlife watching, particularly birds and wildflowers.

 

Passing through Parkgate:

One of the highlights of this section is walking through the historic village of Parkgate, located along the shore of the Dee Estuary. Parkgate offers stunning views of the estuary and the surrounding marshlands, and is known for its charming promenade. This is also a great spot to take in the coastal beauty, with views of the Hilbre Islands on the horizon.

 

Final Stretch (approx. 4 miles):

The last part of the walk is a coastal stretch, where walkers can take in views of West Kirby beach and the Dee Estuary. As the path nears West Kirby, the landscape becomes even more picturesque, with the trail passing:

 

• West Kirby Marine Lake – A saltwater lake that provides a serene environment before reaching the finish.

• West Kirby Beach – The finish line is near the beach, with stunning views across the water, making it a peaceful and rewarding endpoint for the walk.

 

Finish: West Kirby Station

The walk ends at West Kirby Station, where participants can rest and take in the sense of achievement. West Kirby is well-served by public transport, including buses and the local train station. After completing the walk, participants will need to make their own way back, as the finish point is different from the start.

 

Important Information:

• The route is 12 miles long and suitable for walkers of all ages and abilities. However, participants should ensure they are physically prepared for the distance and varying terrain.

• The walk will take approximately 4 to 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and rest breaks.

• The trail includes some uneven paths, so comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential. We also recommend wearing appropriate clothing for the weather conditions and bringing plenty of water and snacks.